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Kitten still sneezing after antibiotics. Can I give more amoxicillin?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 21 days old | 2 lbs

Is it safe to give refrigerated amoxicillin to a 8 week old kitten (who was a stray) who has an upper respiratory infection? The kitten already has completed the 10 days of amoxicillin that the vet prescribed. However, he is still sneezing (no other symptoms lingering). Is it safe to give him the same recommended dose for another 3-4 days? (Pic is day 1 vs day 7)

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 20th, 2023

Hello, thank you for using PetCoach.

The answer is, it depends. We need more information. When was the refrigerated amoxicillin reconstituted? If it was longer than 14 days ago then it is no longer good. Is this formulation the same mg/ml as the one you got from the veterinarian? It is best for you to repost with that information so we can help you better.

Honestly, though, if he is only sneezing, has no other symptoms and is eating/drinking well I would not bother with the antibiotics. Usually a URI is due to a mixed infection of bacteria and viruses - you cannot treat the viral portion with antibiotics and typically after 10 days the bacterial portion is under control. You are better off letting his own immune system kick in. I recommend you use something like Imuquin to help boost his immunity instead of using antibiotics.

( https://www.chewy.com/nutramax-imuquin-beta-glucans-marine/dp/572566 )

Hope this helps. Best wishes.


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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on July 27th, 2019

    Hi there. If I understand your description correctly, it sounds like Rb's symptoms have noticeably improved (no more mucus draining from his nose, and now eating and drinking) - so things are going well so far. It can take 1-2 weeks for symptoms of a respiratory infection to fully resolve once antibiotics have been started.

    As long as he's improving, I would continue giving the full course of medication as directed by your veterinarian. If he's still having any symptoms once the meds are finished, then I would take him back in for a recheck.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 30th, 2018

    I am sorry to hear about your kitty! The amoxicillin will help treat secondary infection with bacteria but if the original infection was viral it will just need more time to run its course. Sometimes if these kitties get very sick supportive care may be needed, but if he is eating/drinking normally without green/yellow discharge from nose, eyes are normal, and no coughing/trouble breathing then I would continue to monitor. If she is having any of the symptoms I mentioned then contact her vet. You can also try giving her a steam treatment by placing her in the bathroom while you run a steamy shower for 10-15 minutes to help keep her airways moist.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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