Convenia vs Clavamox: what's the difference?
How Convenia and Clavamox 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
| Convenia | Clavamox | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Cefovecin | Amoxicillin-clavulanate |
| Brand names | Convenia | Clavamox |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription, given at the clinic | Prescription |
| Used for | A long-acting antibiotic shot for skin infections, dental disease and urinary infections. Useful when pills are hard to give. [1] | Treats skin and soft tissue infections, gum disease in dogs and urinary infections in cats. [2] |
| How it works | A cephalosporin given as one injection. The body clears it very slowly, so a single shot keeps working for a long time. [1] | Amoxicillin kills bacteria by damaging their cell walls. Clavulanate protects the amoxicillin from enzymes some bacteria use to fight back. [2] |
| Common side effects | Sluggishness, low appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and skin reactions at the injection site. [1] | Stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. Giving it with food can help. [2] |
| Use with care | Not for pets allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins, or for rabbits and guinea pigs. Because it lasts so long, a reaction can't be quickly reversed. [1] | Not for pets allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins. Finish the full course even if your pet seems better. [2] |
| Full guide | Convenia guide | Clavamox guide |
Key differences
- How you get them differs: Convenia is prescription, given at the clinic; Clavamox is prescription.
- A clinic-given medicine means a trip to the vet each time, which adds visit fees but takes the daily pill off your plate.
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 Convenia to Clavamox is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Convenia and Clavamox?
Convenia is one long-acting antibiotic shot at the clinic, handy when pills are hard to give; Clavamox is given by mouth at home.
Is Convenia better than Clavamox?
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 Convenia and Clavamox 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 Convenia and Clavamox need a prescription?
Convenia: Yes. It's prescription-only and is usually given at the vet clinic. Clavamox: 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.