# Enrofloxacin for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Enrofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone (DNA gyrase inhibitor) antibacterial. The Baytril tablet label gives 5–20 mg/kg/day for dogs and a maximum of 5 mg/kg/day for cats.

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/enrofloxacin/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Enrofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone (DNA gyrase inhibitor) antibacterial [1]. The Baytril tablet label gives 5–20 mg/kg/day for dogs and a maximum of 5 mg/kg/day for cats [1].

- Class: Fluoroquinolone antibacterial
- Brands: Baytril, Fortivir

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Bacterial infections (Total daily dose.) | 5–20 mg/kg [1] | PO | Once daily or divided twice daily · 2–3 days beyond the end of clinical signs, maximum 30 days | Label |
| Cats | Bacterial infections (Never more than 5 mg/kg per day in cats (retinal toxicity).) | 5 mg/kg [1] | PO | Once daily or divided twice daily · 2–3 days beyond the end of clinical signs, maximum 30 days | Label |

## Uses

- Dogs and cats: bacterial infections susceptible to enrofloxacin (Baytril tablets) [1].

## Mechanism of action

Quinolone carboxylic acid derivatives are DNA gyrase inhibitors; in E. coli they inhibit DNA synthesis by preventing DNA supercoiling [1].

## Safety

- Do not exceed 5 mg/kg per day in cats; rare retinal toxicity has been reported in cats [1].
- Contraindicated in small and medium breeds of dogs during the rapid growth phase [1].
- Contraindicated in animals hypersensitive to quinolones [1].


## Frequently asked questions

### What is the enrofloxacin dose for cats?

5 mg/kg per day, never more, because of rare retinal toxicity [1].

## References

[1] BAYTRIL (enrofloxacin) tablet, chewable — label — DailyMed (US NLM) — FDA-approved label, Elanco (2026). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=606b1dd3-24ed-4f8c-8885-6b22fd7b8883

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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