Fluconazole for Cats: Get Rid of Fungal Infections Like Ringworm Fast

Fluconazole (Diflucan) is a medication that’s used to treat fungal infections in cats. It’s often a first-choice medication to treat fungal infections, such as ringworm and cryptococcus, that have spread throughout a cat’s body and skin.  

Fluconazole is generally safe and well tolerated by most cats. And it can be very effective. Here’s what you need to know if your cat is prescribed this fluconazole.

Fluconazole for cats at a glance

What is fluconazole for cats, and what is it used for?

Fluconazole is used to treat fungal infections in many species of animals, including cats. It’s part of a class of medications called azole antifungals. Azole antifungals treat a wide range of fungi, and they are named for their chemical structure. 

Fluconazole eliminates fungal infections in cats by damaging the cell membrane of fungal cells, causing the cells to die. This medication is often prescribed to cats with infections that have spread all over their body, including:

• Cryptococcus

• Valley fever

• Ringworm

• Histoplasmosis

• Blastomycosis

Fluconazole is also effective against skin, ear, and nail-bed yeast infections.

Fluconazole is only FDA approved for use in humans, but it is commonly used in cats off-label. If your cat’s infection is being caused by a fungus that fluconazole is effective against, your veterinarian may prescribe them the medication. And in some cases, veterinarians prescribe both oral and topical forms of fluconazole to treat an infection. 

Your veterinarian will determine the best approach for treating your cat’s infection based on the cause and other factors.

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

Fluconazole for cats comes in tablets and a compounded liquid suspension that you give by mouth. An injectable form is also available, but it is only used in veterinary clinics. 

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The typical dosage of fluconazole for cats is 50 mg given by mouth once a day. However, your veterinarian may prescribed your cat a different dosage based on:

• Your cat’s weight

• If they have any other health conditions

• The type of infection being treated

• If they take other medications

Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for giving your cat fluconazole closely. It is important to finish the entire prescribed course of fluconazole to completely eradicate the fungal infection. Even if your cat seems to be feeling better, finish giving them the prescribed course. 

Both the tablets and the oral liquid can be given with or without food. But giving your cat fluconazole with a treat or meal can help prevent vomiting or loss of appetite. 

It can take weeks to see the full effects of fluconazole. But you should start to see small improvements in your cat after a few days of giving them the medication. 

What are the common side effects of fluconazole in cats?

Fluconazole is generally safe and well tolerated by most cats. However, it can cause loss of appetite. Other potential mild side effects include: 

• Vomiting

• Loose stool

• Skin rash

If your cat experiences any side effects while taking fluconazole, call your veterinarian for advice.

What are the most serious risks of fluconazole for cats?

The most serious side effect of fluconazole in cats is liver irritation. Liver irritation related to fluconazole is rare. But when it does occur, it can cause the following symptoms:

• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Diarrhea

• Low energy

If your cat experiences these side effects, stop giving them fluconazole and call your veterinarian, a local emergency veterinary clinic, or a pet poison hotline immediately.

Fluconazole should be used with caution in cats that have liver or kidney dysfunction. The medication may also take longer to work in cats with kidney or liver disease. 

Does fluconazole interact with any other cat medications?

Fluconazole can interact with several medications, including:

• Warfarin

• Tramadol

• Antidepressants

• Antianxiety medications

Fluconazole should also be used with caution in cats that take any of the following medications:

• Amphotericin B

• Benzodiazepines 

• Cimetidine

• Cisapride

• Corticosteroids like prednisolone

• Cyclophosphamide

• Cyclosporine

• Thiazide diuretics 

• Pain medications, including NSAIDs and opioids 

• Chemotherapy medications

• Rifampin

• Bronchodilators such as theophylline or aminophylline

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

If you forget to give your cat a dose of fluconazole, give them the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then, resume their regular medication schedule the next day. However, do not give your cat two doses of fluconazole closer than 12 hours apart. And never give them two doses at the same time. 

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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