Terramycin for Cats

According to the Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, Terramycin is a common antibiotic in the tetracycline category and its generic name is oxytetracycline. Most veterinarians (and doctors) restrain from free use of antibiotics because widespread inappropriate use causes bacteria to become resistant to them. Then, a new medication has to be administered and further resistance may develop, making disease much more difficult to treat. Terramycin may be administered to adult cats and kittens.

The Most Common Use for Terramycin in Cats

The most frequent problem that Terramycin is used to treat is feline conjunctivitis. Symptoms of "pink eye," as it is commonly known, include the characteristic redness accompanied by discharge, conjunctival swelling, squinting, tearing and itching of the eye. Pain and fever are usually involved, too.

Less Common Uses for Terramycin in Cats

Corneal ulcers can be caused by bacterial or viral infections or by trauma (cat scratch of the eye, for example). To make an accurate diagnosis, a vet would have to look closely at the surface of the eyeball under a microscope. The cat may paw at the eye, or redness and tearing may be present. Though there is no cure for keratitis (herpes of the eye), the symptoms can be treated with Terramycin.

Dosage

Gently clean the affected eye with a damp cotton ball two to four times per day. Squeeze a tiny ribbon of the ointment under the lid. Hold the eye gently shut for a moment so that the medication has a chance to cover the eyeball. Clipping the claws and/or putting an E-collar (aka Elizabethan collar or "lampshade") on the cat will help keep him from scratching his eye.

Precautions

New infections may occur as a result of use of an antibiotic. Staphylococci pathogens (staph infections) are particularly dangerous because they can spread from cat to human. Either species can die of staph infection. (Terramycin ointment is not for use in humans.) Allergic reactions may occur. Watch for swelling in the cat's eye after administration. Seek immediate veterinary attention if this happens.

More About Terramycin

Terramycin ointment is an over-the-counter medication in most states, but is available by prescription in some states. It must be stored at a temperature no higher than 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Terramycin 343, which Pfizer also makes, is an antibiotic water-soluble powder made for pigs, not to be confused with Terramycin ointment for cats.