Terbinafine (Lamisil) for Cats: An Antifungal Medication for Ringworm and Other Infections
Key takeaways:
Veterinarians (and human physicians) use terbinafine (Lamisil) to treat a variety of fungal infections.
Ringworm is the most common use of terbinafine in cats.
Serious side effects are rare, but some cats may develop digestive side effects or facial itching.
Table of contents
If your cat has a fungal infection, such as ringworm, your veterinarian may prescribe terbinafine (Lamisil). This antifungal medication is used to treat a variety of fungal infections. Fortunately, terbinafine is considered a safe medication for cats, with minimal side effects. However, it’s only natural to have questions about your cat’s medication.
Read on to learn more about terbinafine, including its uses, dosing, and side effects.
Terbinafine (Lamisil) for cats at a glance
Common names | Terbinafine (Lamisil) |
What it treats | Fungal infections such as ringworm |
How it comes (forms) | Tablets, powder, topical |
Common side effects | Decreased appetite Increased salivation Vomiting Diarrhea |
What is terbinafine for cats and how does it work?
Terbinafine is an antifungal medication. This medication is used to treat fungal infections in cats and other species (including humans).
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Terbinafine treats fungal infections by damaging the cell membranes of susceptible fungi. This causes the fungus to die, eliminating the infection in your pet.
What is terbinafine used for in cats?
Terbinafine is most commonly used to treat ringworm in cats. Ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm. It’s caused by a fungus that infects a cat’s skin. There are several different fungal species that may cause ringworm. But the most common species is Microsporum canis.
Other fungal infections that may be treated with terbinafine include:
Yeast fungal infections of the skin
Ear infections caused by yeast
How is terbinafine given to cats?
Your veterinarian will determine the best terbinafine dose for your cat. The dose is based on your cat’s body weight and the condition being treated. Some infections require higher doses of terbinafine, while other conditions respond to lower doses. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely to make sure your cat gets the most benefit from the medication while minimizing the risk of side effects.
Terbinafine is available in both oral and topical forms. Oral terbinafine is the more commonly used form in cats. In some cases, however, veterinarians may prescribe topical terbinafine.
When terbinafine is given by mouth, it’s available as either tablets or a powder (granules) that can be added to food. It’s best to give this medication with food to reduce the risk of side effects.
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Topical sprays may be applied to the skin, and terbinafine ear drops may be used to treat some ear infections.
What are the common side effects of terbinafine in cats?
Terbinafine may cause digestive side effects (upset stomach) in some cats. Side effects may include:
Decreased appetite
Increased salivation
Vomiting
Diarrhea
If you see these side effects, contact your veterinarian. You may be able to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal effects by giving terbinafine with food. If gastrointestinal effects are severe, your veterinarian may prescribe a different medication to treat your cat’s infection.
What are the most serious risks of terbinafine for cats?
Rarely, cats may develop itching and inflammation of the face. While this can be scary to witness, it typically goes away when the cat stops receiving the medication. Contact your veterinarian if you notice facial itching while your cat is taking terbinafine.
Veterinarians may avoid giving terbinafine to cats with liver disease. In rare cases, humans taking terbinafine show signs of liver injury. While this effect has not been seen in cats, some veterinarians prefer to be cautious.
Does terbinafine interact with any other cat medications?
Terbinafine is removed from the body via a chemical pathway that is also used to clear other medications. Combining multiple medications that are processed through this pathway may increase the risk of side effects.
With this in mind, your veterinarian may avoid combining terbinafine with:
Amitraz
Cimetidine
Clomipramine
Fluoxetine
Selegiline
Terbinafine may also decrease the effectiveness of cyclosporine, a medication used to treat allergies and autoimmune diseases. Talk to your veterinarian before combining these medications.
To avoid drug interactions, be sure your veterinarian is familiar with any medications your pet is taking. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and vitamins/supplements.
What should you do if your cat misses a dose of terbinafine?
If your cat misses a dose of terbinafine, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your cat’s next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your cat’s regular dosing schedule. Do not give a double dose of terbinafine.
The bottom line
Veterinarians use terbinafine to treat a number of fungal infections in cats, including ringworm. This medication treats fungal infections with a low risk of side effects. If your veterinarian prescribes terbinafine, use it as directed. Side effects are rare, but it’s best to contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
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References
Brooks, W. (2023). Terbinafine (Lamisil). Veterinary Information Network.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Emerging transmissible sporotrichosis in cats caused by Sporothrix Brasiliensis.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). Ringworm: A serious but readily treatable affliction.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2021). Aspergillosis.
Marsella, R. (2021). Dermatophytoses in dogs and cats. Today's Veterinary Practice.
Shipstone, M. (2023). Antifungals for integumentary disease in animals. Merck Veterinary Manual.
