Ketoconazole 200 mg Tablet for Cat
Ketoconazole 200 mg Tablet for cats is a systemic antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections affecting the skin, nails, and internal organs. It belongs to the imidazole class of antifungal agents and works by disrupting fungal cell membrane formation.
Important: This product is an antifungal medication. It is not a potassium supplement. Potassium deficiency in cats is treated with potassium gluconate products, not ketoconazole.
Ketoconazole should only be used under veterinary supervision due to its potential effects on liver function.
Key Benefits
- Broad-spectrum antifungal activity
- Effective against dermatophytes and yeast infections
- Used in systemic fungal diseases when indicated
- Oral tablet formulation
- Cost-effective alternative in certain cases
How Ketoconazole Works
Ketoconazole inhibits fungal ergosterol synthesis by blocking the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase. Without ergosterol:
- Fungal cell membranes weaken
- Growth and replication stop
- Fungal cells die
It is considered fungistatic at standard doses and may become fungicidal at higher concentrations.
Indications in Cats
Ketoconazole 200 mg Tablet may be prescribed for:
1. Dermatophytosis (Ringworm)
- Microsporum canis
- Trichophyton species
Usually when topical therapy alone is insufficient.
2. Malassezia Dermatitis
Yeast-related skin inflammation and scaling.
3. Systemic Mycoses
- Histoplasmosis
- Blastomycosis
- Cryptococcosis (in selected cases)
4. Fungal Nail or Claw Infections
Note: Itraconazole is often preferred in cats due to better safety, but ketoconazole may still be used depending on clinical judgment.
Recommended Dosage
Typical feline dosing range:
5–10 mg/kg orally once daily
Exact dose and duration depend on infection type and severity.
| Cat Weight | Approximate Dose (5–10 mg/kg) |
| 2–4 kg | 10–40 mg daily |
| 4–6 kg | 20–60 mg daily |
| 6–8 kg | 30–80 mg daily |
| 8–10 kg | 40–100 mg daily |
Because tablets are 200 mg strength, accurate tablet splitting is essential. Never guess the dose.
Duration of Therapy
- Ringworm: 4–6 weeks
- Systemic infections: 6–12 weeks or longer
- Continue 1–2 weeks beyond clinical resolution
Do not stop early unless advised by your veterinarian.
Administration Guidelines
- Administer with food to reduce stomach upset
- Use a pill cutter for precise dosing
- Do not crush excessively unless advised
- Monitor appetite and energy levels
Safety Profile
Ketoconazole has a higher risk of side effects compared to newer antifungals.
Common Side Effects
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
Serious Side Effects
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Hepatotoxicity
- Hormonal suppression (affects steroid synthesis)
- Skin reactions
If jaundice, severe lethargy, or persistent vomiting occurs, stop medication and seek veterinary care immediately.
Monitoring Requirements
For courses longer than 2–3 weeks:
- Baseline liver function tests
- Repeat ALT/AST every 2–4 weeks
- Monitor appetite and weight
Contraindications
Avoid use in:
- Cats with liver disease
- Pregnant cats
- Cats with known azole hypersensitivity
Use cautiously in geriatric or debilitated cats.
Drug Interactions
Ketoconazole interacts with:
- Corticosteroids
- Cyclosporine
- Certain heart medications
- Acid-reducing drugs
- Other hepatotoxic medications
Always disclose all medications and supplements your cat is taking.
Comparison with Other Antifungals
| Drug | Safety in Cats | Best Use |
| Ketoconazole | Moderate risk | Skin/systemic fungal infections |
| Itraconazole | Safer option | Preferred for most feline cases |
| Fluconazole | CNS infections | Better brain penetration |
| Terbinafine | Dermatophytes | Often combination therapy |
Itraconazole is often preferred in cats due to improved tolerability.
Storage Instructions
- Store at room temperature
- Protect from moisture and light
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
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