Overview of Cefovecin for Canines and Felines

Cefovecin sodium is an injectable long-acting antibiotic, more commonly known as Covenia®, and use for dogs and cats to treat respiratory tract infections, bone and joint infections, septicemia, skin infections, and more. This is commonly used in dogs and cats that are difficult to administer oral medications. 

It is administered by subcutaneous injection (under the skin and above the muscle).

It is active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including anaerobic species.

Cefotixin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Cefovecin sodium is not effective against infections caused by parasites (intestinal worms), mites, viruses, or fungi.

Brand Names and Other Names of Cefovecin

Veterinary formulations: Convenia® (Pfizer)

Uses of Cefovecin Sodium for Dogs and Cats

Cefovecin sodium is used in both dogs and cats to treat a variety of bacterial infections. 

Skin infections – It is labeled for use for skin infections, specifically for treatment of skin infections (secondary superficial pyoderma, abscesses, and wounds) in dogs caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus intermedius and Streptococcus canis (Group G). It is indicated for the treatment of skin infections ((wounds and abscesses) in cats caused by susceptible strains of Pasteurella multocida.

It may also be used for: 

Respiratory tract infections

Urogenital tract infections

Intra-abdominal infections

Septicemia

Bone and joint infections

Perioperative prophylaxis

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, Cefovecin sodium can cause side effects in some animals.

In cats, the most common effects are vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, hyperactivity or “acting strange” and inappropriate urination.

In dogs, the most common adverse effects were lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in feces, dehydration, and flatulence.

Cefovecin sodium should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or other cephalosporins. In addition, it should be used cautiously in patients sensitive to other beta-lactam antibiotics.

During treatment with Cefovecin sodium, gastrointestinal flora may become disturbed, causing diarrhea.

It is generally not recommended for pets less than 4 months of age. Its safety in breeding and pregnant animals has not been determined.

High doses of Cefovecin sodium can cause nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, hepatitis, changes in the blood leukogram and thrombocytopenia.

The dose of Cefovecin sodium is often reduced in patients with compromised renal function.

Drug Interactions

Cefovecin sodium may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with Cefovecin sodium. Such drugs may include certain other antibiotics.

How Cefovecin Sodium is Supplied

Powder for injection in a 10 mL 800 milligram bottle. It is reconstituted with 10 mL of sterile water for injection and is then 80 mg/ml. It should be stored in its original carton and refrigerated when not in use and is “good” for 56 days after reconstitution.

Dosing Information of Cefovecin for Dogs and Cats

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

In dogs and cats, the usual dose is 3.6 mg per pound (8 mg/kg) as a one time injection subcutaneously. It can be repeated in 7 to 14 days. The typical dose for a 10 pound pet is 0.45 mL. 

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. A second injection may be recommended depending on your pets circumstances and response to treatment. Maximum treatment should not exceed 2 injections.