Rapid Relief for Your Pet’s Skin Infection

Convenia is part of the group of antibiotics called cephalosporins, and it works by breaking down cell wall, killing the bacterium. 

Within 30 minutes of being injected under the skin, detectable concentrations of Convenia are at the site of infection. Within four hours, on average, it reaches a high enough concentration to start killing bacteria.^1,3 Convenia will continue killing bacteria in the infected tissue for the full treatment period - 14 days.*³

Convenia is unique because it is a long-acting injectable antibiotic that actively fights infections. In studies, a single injection of Convenia was found to be the equivalent of 14 days of orally dosed antibiotics* (e.g., tablets or pills, some of which have to be administered by pet owners as often as twice daily).^1,2

Convenia treats common bacterial skin infections in dogs, including superficial pyoderma in dogs as well as abscesses and wounds for both cats and dogs. These conditions can cause itching, scratching, licking and biting, and may be painful.

Convenia is administered by your veterinarian as an injection under the skin. The dosage is based on your pet's weight.

Every pet and every infection is different. Peak blood levels are seen within 2.0 hours in cats and 6.2 hours in dogs.^1,2 This means that Convenia can start killing the bacteria quickly. However, based on the severity of the infection, your veterinarian is best able to predict when a difference in the skin is likely.

As with any medication, it takes some time for the body to completely eliminate a drug. A drug's half-life is the time it takes to eliminate half of the drug from the body. The half-life of Convenia is 6.9 days in cats and 5.5 days in dogs.⁵ After this time, the drug continues to decline in concentration and could exist in small amounts for up to 65 days.⁵ This does not mean that Convenia works for this long or, if there is a side effect, that the side effect may last that long. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Zoetis at 888-ZOETIS1 (888-963-8471). 

A single injection will last 14 days. For cats one injection should be sufficient to treat the infection. For dogs, a second injection may be required to provide another 14 days of treatment if you dog’s response to therapy is not yet complete.

Allergic reactions to Convenia are possible. The primary side effects reported with Convenia injections in cats and dogs are vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and decreased appetite. These side effects are uncommon, similar to the incidence rates of other antibiotics. Zoetis takes its responsibility to collect information on side effects very seriously. We have a call center where you can report any adverse reactions or ask any questions. Please call Zoetis at 888-ZOETIS1 (888-963-8471).