Antibiotics Dogs & Cats

Convenia for dogs and cats

A long-acting antibiotic shot for skin infections, dental disease and urinary infections. Useful when pills are hard to give. [1]

Last reviewed: October 2026 · 2 sources · see sources

Quick answerConvenia (cefovecin) is a prescription, given at the clinic medicine for dogs and cats. A cephalosporin given as one injection. The body clears it very slowly, so a single shot keeps working for a long time. The most common side effects: sluggishness, low appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and skin reactions at the injection site.

Key facts

Generic nameCefovecin
Common brand namesConvenia
Used inDogs & Cats
TypeAntibiotics
Prescription?Prescription, given at the clinic
Typical US priceNot listed (no reliable public source)

What it's used for

A long-acting antibiotic shot for skin infections, dental disease and urinary infections. Useful when pills are hard to give. [1]

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]

Side effects and cautions

Common side effects: Sluggishness, low appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and skin reactions at the injection site. [1]

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]

Call your vet right away if your pet has trouble breathing, facial swelling, hives, collapse, or any side effect that is severe or getting worse.

About dosingDosing is your vet's call. We don't list doses because the right amount depends on your pet's weight, age, health and other medicines. Don't change a dose or stop a medicine without asking your vet, and never give a pet medicine meant for people unless your vet tells you to [2].

What it costs

We don't list a price for this one because we couldn't find a reliable public source. Ask your vet or pharmacy for a quote; prices depend on your pet's size, the dose and where you fill it.

Convenia FAQ

What is Convenia used for in dogs and cats?

A long-acting antibiotic shot for skin infections, dental disease and urinary infections. Useful when pills are hard to give.

What are the side effects of Convenia?

Sluggishness, low appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and skin reactions at the injection site.

Does Convenia need a prescription?

Yes. It's prescription-only and is usually given at the vet clinic.

How much Convenia should I give my pet?

Only your veterinarian can tell you. The right dose depends on your pet's weight, health and other medicines, so we don't list doses. Never give a pet a medicine prescribed for a person or another animal without asking your vet.

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This page is general information for pet owners, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.

Sources (2) — tap to show
  1. VCA Animal Hospitals – Cefovecin (veterinary drug handout)
  2. FDA – Frequently asked questions about animal drugs