Please note: This calculator is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice and should not be the sole basis for clinical decisions. Always consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns.

Calculator Overview

This calculator estimates the appropriate Cephalexin dosage for dogs based on their weight, weight unit, and the selected dose base (mg per kg). It provides dosage information in milligrams, as well as equivalent tablet and liquid medication amounts.

Inputs

• Weight: Enter your dog’s body weight.
• Unit: Select the weight unit — kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).
• Dose Base: The recommended dosage per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg). Typically ranges from 10 to 35 mg/kg depending on the infection severity and veterinary guidance.

Outputs

• Total Dosage: The calculated Cephalexin dose in milligrams (mg) per administration.
• Tablets: Estimated number of 250 mg tablets required per dose.
• Liquid Suspension: Estimated volume in milliliters (ml) based on a 125 mg/5 ml concentration per dose.

Calculation Method

The dosage is calculated by multiplying the dog’s weight (converted to kilograms if necessary) by the selected dose base (mg/kg):
Dosage (mg) = Weight (kg) × Dose Base (mg/kg)
The total milligram dose is then converted into tablets and liquid volume estimates:
– Tablets = Dosage (mg) ÷ 250 mg per tablet
– Liquid volume (ml) = (Dosage (mg) ÷ 125 mg) × 5 ml

Veterinary Recommended Dosage

Cephalexin is commonly prescribed at doses ranging from 10 to 30 mg/kg every 12 hours, depending on the infection type and severity. Doses up to 35 mg/kg may be used under veterinary supervision for severe infections. Treatment duration and frequency should always follow your veterinarian’s instructions.

Indications

• Bacterial skin infections
• Soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory infections
• Post-surgical prophylaxis

Warnings and Precautions

Use Cephalexin with caution in dogs with kidney disease, allergies to cephalosporins or penicillins, and those on concurrent medications. Side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. Monitor your dog closely during treatment.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

• If your dog has underlying health conditions or is pregnant or nursing
• If you observe severe side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or allergic reactions
• If the infection worsens or does not improve after completing the prescribed course
• If you are unsure about the correct dosage or treatment duration