Antibiotics are medicines used to treat and prevent bacterial infections. They can work either by killing
bacteria or inhibiting their growth. This prevents bacteria from spreading. Many mild bacterial infections
will get better on their own without the need for antibiotics. However, antibiotics are vital for infections
that are unlikely to resolve on their own, have the potential to infect and negatively impact others, or
could take too long to clear without treatment.
Each antibiotic is only effective against certain bacteria. When selecting an antibiotic for your cat, your
vet will need to assess whether the bacteria is definitely present, where the bacteria is and which specific
bacteria is the cause of disease.
To ensure that antibiotics are needed, our vet may suggest a culture and sensitivity test. This is a test
where a sample, such as pee, blood, skin or mucus, is taken from the site of infection. The sample is then
placed in a liquid or gel, known as a culture medium, that provides an environment suitable for bacteria to
grow. If bacteria develop, they are then exposed to various antibiotics to see which ones are most
effective at eliminating them. This information will guide your vet in selecting the most appropriate
antibiotics for your cat’s infection. This is important to both resolve the infection, but also to prevent
antibiotic resistance.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria develop mechanisms to reduce the effects of antibiotics. This
is a concern for both human and veterinary medicine as it can lead to ‘superbugs’ such as MRSA and
Clostridium difficile. These are bacterial infections that are not easily killed by antibiotics. Antibiotic
resistance has occurred due to a combination of the following factors.
Bacteria mutating and evolving naturally, overuse, extensive agricultural use, for example using them in
farm animal feed to promote the growth of farm animals. Inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics for
example in cases of flu and colds, which are viruses. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
As antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine, there is some
pressure to restrict the use of certain antibiotics in animals. This could have considerable implications for
animal welfare. It is therefore vital that antibiotics are used responsibly and that vets adhere to the
following guidelines. Prescribe only where necessary, reduce use of antibiotics for preventing infections,
offer other options, treat effectively to ensure the infection is resolved and use culture and sensitivity
testing to ensure an appropriate antibiotic is selected.
Antibiotics have undoubtedly been important in curing infections and have saved countless lives. In order
to preserve their vital function, society must collectively promote and practice responsible antibiotic use
so that these important medicines can continue to save lives.
For help or advice or if you need help with the cost of neutering, please call us on 01842 810018.
Rita Thompson.
