Podcast: Top 5 Times to Reconsider Antibiotic Prescriptions with Dr. Granick

Protecting antibiotic efficacy is crucial. Clinicians should prescribe them judiciously to combat resistance and ensure their effectiveness for future cases.

Most upper respiratory infections in cats are viral, not bacterial. Antibiotics should only be considered if symptoms persist beyond 10 days, the cat's appetite doesn't improve despite supportive care, or there are signs of respiratory distress or systemic illness.

Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) involves multiple viral pathogens. Most dogs recover within 1–2 weeks without antibiotics, though mild coughing may linger for up to a month.

The presence of bacteria and white blood cells in the urine without clinical signs of urinary tract disease usually indicates subclinical bacteriuria. Antibiotic treatment is unnecessary regardless of pyuria or bacterial culture colony counts.

Acute diarrhea, including acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome, is typically non-infectious and self-limiting. Antibiotics are generally not required.

Lyme nephritis is rare, even in endemic regions. Current guidelines discourage treating asymptomatic, nonproteinuric dogs seropositive for B. burgdorferi antibodies.

Clear, empathetic communication is key when explaining why antibiotics are not being prescribed. Using relatable analogies can help clients understand and trust your decision.