Free Fedex 2-DAY Shipping Orders $100+

Meloxicam For Your Dog: Side Effects To Keep An Eye On

Reading TimeReading Time:

Meloxicam For Your Dog: Side Effects To Keep An Eye On

When your dog is in pain, it can be a pet parent's worst nightmare - enter Meloxicam!

The last thing anyone wants for their furry friends are prescriptions that have unpleasant side effects. That’s why many owners seek out the drug called Meloxicam (sold under the brand Metacam), which has been proven to help with chronic diseases like arthritis and other more temporary injuries as well.

Meloxicam works by reducing inflammation throughout your pet's body while also relieving discomfort from joint problems or any kind of injury they may experience on an everyday basis. The best part? It doesn't cause nasty reactions because this medication is animal-friendly! So if you're looking for an anti-inflammatory drug, keep reading to learn more.

Meloxicam for dogs

What is Meloxicam?

Meloxicam is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for humans and dogs. The medication reduces the pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with arthritis or surgery.

Mobic is the name brand of a drug that has only been approved for human use, but it can also be prescribed to dogs by veterinarians. The generic versions are Meloxicam or Metacam and they may be used on humans as well animals who need treatment. Loxicom is an oral suspension formula specifically meant for dog treatments.

Mobility support innovet

Metacam vs. Meloxicam: What’s the Difference?

Meloxicam is an FDA-approved drug with proven efficacy against arthritis (among many other issues). The active ingredient? Meloxiomal as its called by scientists--yes we're talking about one word which has more than one meaning.

Meloxicam is the name of a medicine that helps reduce inflammation and pain. Metacam, on the other hand, is the company behind meloxicam’s use in dogs. Although they are both related to reducing inflammation and providing relief from pain, it can be confusing for people who do not know this distinction to see these two terms used so interchangeably online or elsewhere.

Is Meloxicam Safe for My Dog?

Like all medications, Metacam is not perfect for every dog. If your pup has had an allergic reaction to this drug or other anti-inflammatory drugs before, don’t give them it again! The side effects can be dangerous and adverse reactions have been reported by some dogs who take the medication. So make sure you talk with a vet before using any pharmaceuticals on your dogs

Is Meloxicam Safe?

Important Things to Discuss with Your Vet Before Giving Your Dog Meloxicam

As we’ve mentioned, not all dogs should take meloxicam. When discussing with your vet whether or not to try this drug, there are some factors you should consider before making a decision for them - such as their age, size, and weight; medical conditions they have (such as diabetes); what other medications they're taking at the time; allergies that may trigger reactions when mixed with Metacam medication; if they also need an antibiotic in addition to Metacam.

The benefits of using it outweigh its potential risks but keep these points in mind while still talking about any concerns you might have!

The worst thing about meloxicam for dogs is that it can cause renal toxicity and lead to kidney failure. If you take this drug, please tell your vet what other medications you or your dog are taking!

Giving Meloxicam/Metacam to dogs

While the drug itself is the same when given to humans, it's very different for dogs. The smallest human dose of Mobic is a 7.5 mg tablet and only half that amount will do if you're giving it to your dog weighing 45 pounds - but then again this is not advisable in any case because an overdose could be fatal! Loxicom, Metacam or Meloxicam are sold as liquids so administering accurate doses can easily be done with these medications which keeps your loved ones safe from overdoses. Very large breeds may technically take a portion of their tablets safely (though getting exact dosing would still prove difficult) though such instances should never occur anyway: drugs designed specifically for small animals like cats and dogs can't work. 

How to Give Meloxicam for dogs

Metacam should only be given to a dog after getting a veterinary prescription, and your vet should give you instructions on proper dosage and administration techniques. Generally, the initial dose is 0.09-0.1 mg per pound of weight; this will then decrease to 0.045 - .05mg per day for dogs that have already been administered Metacam once in their life span or if they are smaller than 25 pounds (11 kg). The drug can be injected into an animal's mouth but it must never go directly into food because it could result in an overdose.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Meloxicam?

Depending on your pet insurance policy and your dog's condition, it is possible that your pet insurance plan may cover or offer a discount for Meloxicam when it is used to treat pain and inflammation, or another health condition, such as in concomitant diuretic therapy.

Medical Problems Meloxicam Treats

Meloxicam is a steroidal anti inflammatory drug that treats a large number of medical problems, including:

  • Surgical pain and inflammation
  • Arthritis
  • Soft tissue injuries

Types of Meloxicam Dosages and Versions

There are many different available dosages and versions of this steroidal anti inflammatory drug to control pain. This includes:

  • Metacam oral suspension
  • Chewable tablets

The best way to reduce the likelihood of the most common side effects is to administer the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with veterinary guidance. Follow the instructions on the dosing syringe to prevent accidental overdosing.

Meloxicam for dogs side effects

The most common side effects of meloxicam in dogs involve gastrointestinal upset, much like other NSAID medications. If symptoms become extreme or alarming, then you should contact your vet. They may wish to adjust the dosage or find alternative treatment - after all these are not harmful and their main purpose is just to make the pet's life more comfortable!

Side Effects of Meloxicam

Taking meloxicam can result in a number of adverse events such as:

  • Soft stools and diarrhea
  • Black, bloody, or tarry stool
  • Blood in vomit
  • Increased urination
  • Swelling and weight gain from fluid retention which may lead to fatigue or weakness
  • Increased thirst and urination due to the additional water intake because you are retaining more fluids.
  • Itchiness (especially for those people who have been prescribed an ointment),
  • Abdominal pain and tenderness - some stomach ulcers might also occur with prolonged usage.

Just like the vast majority of medications, meloxicam has a risk of allergic reaction that could lead to anaphylaxis. If you see signs such as swelling or difficulty breathing, contact your vet immediately before giving them their daily maintenance dose! Puppies and dogs who are pregnant or nursing shouldn't take this medication--let your veterinarian know if they have any other medical conditions too because it can be risky.

Your vet should also be aware of all medications your dog is taking, even over-the-counter drugs, including other NSAIDS, to prevent drug interactions. These can react poorly with meloxicam and cause an adverse reaction such as:

  • Hepatic dysfunction
  • Renal failure
  • Bleeding disorder
  • Kidney damage
  • Unexpected weight loss
  • Decreased appetite
  • Allergic reaction
  • Vomiting

 CBD Oil for Dogs

Know the Dangers of Meloxicam Adverse Effects!

Meloxicam is a pain and inflammation reliever that can be great for you if taken as prescribed. However, an excess of this drug in dogs may lead to overdose and even death. So too could have an allergic reaction or any other ailment with meloxicam's side effects (e.g., excessive sedation). Be sure to pay attention not only to the symptoms but also how your pet reacts when given therapies like antihistamines which help alleviate some of their discomfort from allergies/analgesics sensitivities.

Overdose or Allergy Symptoms

If you are wondering if your dog overdosed on meloxicam, they will exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea,
  • Rapid breathing with labored gasps for air,
  • Excessive thirstiness to the point of dehydration (pale gums),
  • Frequent urination in spite of uncoordinated movements.

These are not all possible side effects; however, these four display themselves very prominently among other signs that may be present.

Ask Your Vet About Metacam and Meloxicam Interactions

The risk of negative reactions to Metacam is higher for dogs who are already taking other medications. To avoid this, talk with your veterinarian and make sure they know what medicines your dog is on before prescribing any new ones- including meloxicam! If you're lucky, all the aches and pains will go away soon after treatment begins.


Recent Posts

Cerenia for Cats
Cerenia for Cats
READ NOW
Trifexis For Dogs
Trifexis For Dogs
READ NOW
Metronidazole for Dogs: Benefits and Long Term Use
Metronidazole for Dogs: Benefits and Long Term Use
READ NOW
Previcox for Dogs: Uses and Are There Any Benefits?
Previcox for Dogs: Uses and Are There Any Benefits?
READ NOW
Deramaxx for Dogs: Uses and Possible Side Effects
Deramaxx for Dogs: Uses and Possible Side Effects
READ NOW
Turmeric for Dogs: A Healthy Spice, But Does It Work?
Turmeric for Dogs: A Healthy Spice, But Does It Work?
READ NOW
3 comments
  • Kevin Buickerood

    After it helped her brother with his arthritis, our vet prescribed Meloxicam to our female Aussie. Within a week she was collapsing, showing signs of being dazed when coming too. We had no idea what was happening, we discontinued the morning dose after visiting the vet, but she was also showing signs of pain with her panting. Unfortunately, they didn’t think about Meloxicam toxicity. We visited another vet for a second opinion, they prescribed meds to help with bleeding ulcers, and gave us supplements to help with the vomiting and diarrhea. Again, this vet didn’t think of Meloxicam toxicity, maybe they did, and they didn’t want to tell us. That night our girl died! We’ve taken her brother off of it since. If I could be more pissed, you would feel it through the screen right now! I am livid!

  • Innovet Pet

    Hello Di,

    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. It sounds like Meloxicam has been a great help to your dog and we’re glad he’s feeling better! I’m so sorry about what happened to his left leg, but it sounds like he’s on the mend now. We’re happy that you’ve found relief in our product and hope it continues to work as well for him as it does now.

  • Di

    Good information thank you. My dog is now taking Meloxicam and now he can walk normal and does not look like a presale I thought he was dyeing. He is thirteen year old and he goes for walks most every day and eats good. Thank you again for your information .He is my best friend and my life line.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published