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Tylosin powder is a prescription macrolide antibiotic that veterinarians commonly prescribe for dogs and cats with chronic enteropathy — long-standing or recurring diarrhea that improves with tylosin (often called "tylosin-responsive diarrhea"). Supplied as a 100 g pouch of soluble powder, it is measured to your pet's prescribed dose and mixed into food.
Key facts
- Active ingredient: Tylosin tartrate, a macrolide antibiotic derived from Streptomyces fradiae.
- Species: Dogs and cats, as prescribed by your veterinarian (small-animal use is extra-label).
- Typical use cases: Chronic enteropathy and antibiotic-responsive diarrhea; also used for other bacterial infections at your veterinarian's discretion.
- Available size: 100 g pouch of water-soluble powder.
- Form: Powder measured by weight and mixed with food.
- Brand note: Generic equivalent to tylosin products such as Tylan Soluble.
How to use
Because tylosin's use in dogs and cats is extra-label, the dose, frequency, and duration are determined by your prescribing veterinarian. Measure each dose carefully, mix it thoroughly into a small amount of food to mask the bitter taste, and confirm your pet eats the full portion. Complete the entire prescribed course — do not stop early even if stools improve.
Safety information
- For veterinary use only; not for human use.
- Do not use in pets with a known hypersensitivity to tylosin or other macrolide antibiotics.
- The powder is bitter; giving it in food improves acceptance, especially in cats.
- Store away from moisture and heat, and keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Contact your veterinarian if diarrhea does not improve, returns after stopping, or if your pet shows signs of an adverse reaction.
Frequently asked questions
What is tylosin used for in dogs?
Veterinarians most often prescribe tylosin for chronic or recurring diarrhea (chronic enteropathy), where it helps normalize stool quality — a pattern known as tylosin-responsive diarrhea.
How long does tylosin take to work for diarrhea?
Many pets with tylosin-responsive diarrhea show firmer stools within the first days of treatment, but diarrhea can recur when the medication stops. Your veterinarian will set the course length and any long-term plan.
Can cats take tylosin?
Yes, when prescribed by a veterinarian. Because the powder is bitter, mixing the dose thoroughly into palatable food is especially important for cats.
How do I give tylosin powder?
Measure the exact prescribed amount and mix it into a small portion of food your pet will finish completely, so the full dose is taken.
Is a prescription required for tylosin?
Yes. Tylosin is dispensed under a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship; Smarty Vets verifies your veterinarian's prescription before shipping.
Cat with chronic diarrhea that tested positive for Tritrichomonas foetus? See Ronidazole (compounded) for cats.