Veraflox for Cats (Pradofloxacin)

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.  

What Is Veraflox Used for in Cats?

Veraflox (active ingredient pradofloxacin) is a veterinary antibiotic that is FDA-approved for use in cats for the treatment of skin-related wounds and abscesses. 

Typically given once a day for seven consecutive days, Veraflox is available as a vanilla-flavored oral suspension with an easy-to-use, low-mess dispenser. It doesn’t need to be mixed with water (reconstituted) or refrigerated.  

How Veraflox Works in Cats

Pradofloxacin, the active ingredient in Veraflox, is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, which works by blocking two important enzymes (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) that bacteria need to replicate and thrive. 

Veraflox Considerations in Cats

Your veterinarian will take a sample of your cat’s skin wound or abscess to test whether the bacteria is susceptible to Veraflox. 

Veraflox should not be used in cats who are hypersensitive to it or other similar medications in the quinolone class of antibiotics. 

Veraflox should be used with caution in cats with known or suspected neurological disorders. 

Giving Veraflox with certain medications can result in health risks to your cat, so it’s important to discuss with your veterinarian your cat’s medical conditions and medications, including vitamins and supplements. 

At the time of this publication, studies had not been performed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Veraflox in cats with certain medical conditions, including immunocompromised cats (cats infected with feline leukemia virus and/or feline immunodeficiency virus); kittens younger than 12 weeks of age; and breeding, pregnant, and nursing cats. 

Speak with your veterinarian about whether Veraflox is right for your cat.  

How To Give Veraflox to Cats

Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian. 

• Shake well before use and rinse syringe between doses. 

• Veraflox is to be given by mouth once daily for seven consecutive days. 

• If your cat’s infection shows no improvement within three to four days, you will need to bring your cat back to the vet for reevaluation and to explore alternative therapies. 

• Veraflox is best absorbed on an empty stomach. If your cat shows signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting or lack of appetite, Veraflox may be given with some food, as long as it does not contain dairy or iron.  

Missed a Dose? 

Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of Veraflox. 

Generally, your vet may instruct you to give it when you remember, or if it is almost time for your cat’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule.  

Do not give extra or double doses. 

Possible Side Effects of Veraflox in Cats

Newer quinolone antibiotics, like Veraflox, seem to be well-tolerated in cats. Side effects are uncommon and may include: 

• Diarrhea 

• Elevated white blood cell count 

• Elevated muscle enzyme level (CPK) 

• Sneezing 

Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and do not use Veraflox in your kitten or cat for longer than seven days. A safety study demonstrated that administration longer than seven days can cause reversible bone marrow suppression resulting in low white blood cell counts.  

Human Side Effects 

Veraflox is a prescription veterinary medication not intended for use in humans. 

Due to possible side effects, humans should never use medicine dispensed for their pets and pets should not be given any medicine dispensed for a human’s use. 

If you are allergic to quinolone antibiotics, talk to your veterinarian about the possibility of administering an alternative medication to your cat. 

Avoid contact with eyes, and in case of contact immediately flush eyes with lots of water. In case of skin contact, wash skin with soap and water immediately for at least 20 seconds and avoid direct sunlight. 

Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling this medication. 

Consult a physician if eye or skin irritation persists. 

If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, seek medical attention in person and call Poison Control at 800-222-1222. There is a risk of photosensitization within a few hours after exposure to quinolones like Veraflox. 

Monitoring Your Pet 

No specific monitoring is required for this medication, but your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your pet’s individual needs, other medications they may be prescribed, and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication. 

When To Call Your Vet 

Call your veterinarian if you see any of the following: 

• Severe side effects (above) 

• Your pet experiences any visual problems (retinopathy) 

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment 

• You see or suspect an overdose 

• If you have additional questions or concerns about the use of Veraflox 

Veraflox Overdose Concerns in Cats

Overdoses of Veraflox can cause vomiting and drooling (hypersalivation). 

If you suspect an overdose, immediately seek emergency veterinary care or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply. 

• Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661  

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control 888-426-4435  

How To Store Veraflox for Cats

Keep the following storage tips in mind for this medication: 

• Veraflox does not require refrigeration and should be stored below 86 F (30 C). 

• After opening, Veraflox is stable and safe for use for 60 days. 

• Keep medication and used syringes out of reach of children and pets. 

• Rinse syringe between doses.