Clavamox vs Amoxicillin: what's the difference?
How Clavamox and Amoxicillin compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 2 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Clavamox | Amoxicillin | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Amoxicillin-clavulanate | Amoxicillin |
| Brand names | Clavamox | Amoxi-Tabs, Amoxi-Drop |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Treats skin and soft tissue infections, gum disease in dogs and urinary infections in cats. [1] | Treats certain bacterial infections, most often skin, respiratory and urinary infections. [2] |
| How it works | Amoxicillin kills bacteria by damaging their cell walls. Clavulanate protects the amoxicillin from enzymes some bacteria use to fight back. [1] | A penicillin-type antibiotic that breaks down bacterial cell walls. [2] |
| Common side effects | Stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. Giving it with food can help. [1] | Low appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. [2] |
| Use with care | Not for pets allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins. Finish the full course even if your pet seems better. [1] | Not for pets allergic to penicillins. Never give it to rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters or other small mammals. [2] |
| Full guide | Clavamox guide | Amoxicillin guide |
Key differences
On the basics they are alike: same kind of animal, same way to get them. The differences are in how they work and what else they cover, shown in the table above.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Clavamox to Amoxicillin is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Clavamox and Amoxicillin?
Clavamox is amoxicillin plus clavulanate, which protects it from enzymes some bacteria use to fight back.
Is Clavamox better than Amoxicillin?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Clavamox and Amoxicillin together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Clavamox and Amoxicillin need a prescription?
Clavamox: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Amoxicillin: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.