Enrofloxacin (Baytril) is a fluroquinolone, broad-spectrum antibiotic which is useful for treating a wide range of bacterial infections. Baytril is the veterinary-labeled form of
ciprofloxacin, which is the equivalent drug used for humans.
In the United States, Enrofloxacin is available by prescription only, meaning that you will need to obtain it through your veterinarian who will prescribe it "extra-label" to poultry kept as pets. Since this drug is a fluoroquinolone-class antibiotic, it is not approved for use in poultry that are not kept as pets.
Fluroquinolone antibiotics are the drug of choice against
Mycoplasma and most gram-negative bacteria, including:
And some gram-positive bacteria:
The oral syrup can be given directly to the mouth or dissolved in the drinking water. Due to its bitter taste, it may be necessary to mix the drug with another medium such as apple sauce or fruit juice to improve the taste. The drug is less effective when administered in drinking water.
Caution: May cause muscle necrosis and pain at the injection site if given IM. Repeated IM injections are not recommended. Birds taking this medication should be concurrently monitored for signs of secondary infections and sour crop.
Storage/Stability: Unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer, enrofloxacin tablets should be stored in tight containers at temperatures less than 30°C. Protect from strong UV light.
