Albon for Cats: An Antibiotic for Certain Types of Bacterial Infections

Albon (sulfadimethoxine) is an antibiotic that effectively treats a wide range of bacterial infections in cats. If your veterinarian prescribed your cat Albon, you probably have questions. And the good news is: We have answers.

Keep reading to learn more about Albon for cats and what to expect when giving it to your furry feline. 

Albon for cats at a glance

What is Albon for cats, and how does it work?

Albon (sulfadimethoxine) is a sulfonamide antibiotic. It treats bacterial infections by blocking the growth of bacteria, allowing the immune system to eliminate infections.

Albon effectively treats a wide range of bacterial infections in cats, including infections caused by the following bacteria:

• Streptococcus

• Staphylococcus

• E. Coli

• Salmonella

• Klebsiella

• Proteus

• Shigella

These bacteria can cause the following types of infections:

• Respiratory infections

• Urinary infections

• Uterine infections

• Skin infections and abscesses

• Gastrointestinal infections

In addition to treating these infections, Albon is effective against some protozoal organisms, such as coccidia. Coccidia often causes diarrhea and an upset stomach in young cats. Albon is prescribed off-label to cats to treat coccidia.

It is important to note that some bacterial organisms are resistant to Albon. So it should not be prescribed for all bacteria infections. In addition, Albon is not effective at treating viral or tick-borne bacterial infections in cats.

How is Albon given to cats and what is the typical dosage?

Albon is generally prescribed to cats as a custard-flavored 50 mg/mL oral suspension that most readily swallow. It is also available in 125 mg, 250 mg, and 500 mg tablets. Albon is generally prescribed as a once-daily treatment that’s taken for 3 to 5 days.

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The initial dose of Albon for cats is 25 mg per pound of body weight. This works out to about 1 tsp of the liquid suspension for every 10 lbs of body weight. 

Subsequent daily doses are 12.5 mg per pound of body weight — or ½ tsp of liquid suspension for every 10 lbs of body weight — for 3 to 4 days.

Albon can be given to cats with or without food, but it should be given at the same time each day. Albon does not need to be refrigerated. Just be sure to shake the liquid suspension well before use. 

Ensure your cat drinks enough water while being treated with Albon. This will help prevent internal organ damage due to dehydration.

Your cat should show improvement within 2 to 3 days after starting treatment with Albon. But you should keep giving them the medication until they’ve been symptom-free for 48 hours. However, if your cat doesn’t show improvement after a few days of taking Albon, you may need to see your veterinarian again. 

What are the common side effects of Albon in cats?

The most common side effects of Albon in cats include:

• Stomach upset

• Decreased appetite

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea or soft stool

If your cat experiences any of these side effects, try giving them the medication with a meal. If that doesn’t help, consult your veterinarian. 

What are the most serious risks of Albon for cats?

Rare but more serious side effects are also possible with Albon. These include:

• Dry eye associated with keratoconjunctivitis sicca

• Bone marrow suppression

• Skin rashes

• Hives or swollen face (allergic reaction)

• Urine crystals

If you notice your cat having any negative side effects, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. 

Do not give Albon to a cat that is pregnant, breeding, or lactating or one who has liver or kidney disease.

Does Albon interact with any other cat medications?

Albon can interact with other medications that are used to treat cats. Use caution when combining any of these medications with Albon:

• Cyclosporine

• Corticosteroids

• Glipizide

• Insulin

• Diuretics

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Antacids

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications or supplements you give your cat before they are prescribed Albon. 

What should you do if your cat misses a dose of Albon?

If you forget to give your cat a dose of Albon, give them the medication as soon as you remember. Then, give them the medication at the regular time the next day. Never double up on Albon doses to make up for a missed one.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Sarah J. Wooten, DVM, CVJ

Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ, is a well-known international influencer in the veterinary and animal healthcare spaces. She has 16 years of experience in private practice and more than 15 years experience in veterinary media work.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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