Special considerations for appropriate antimicrobial therapy in neonates.

Guidelines for the use of antibiotics in puppies and kittens must take into account drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. In the neonate, these factors may differ considerably from those in the adult; thus, there are differences in therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects. This article discusses the special considerations for antimicrobial therapy in neonates and presents a rational approach to selecting antimicrobial therapy that improves the use of antibiotics.