Meloxicam in Dogs: A Medication to Manage Pain and Arthritis
Key takeaways:
Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that’s used to manage acute and chronic pain in dogs.
Meloxicam is FDA approved for use in dogs. It’s available as a pill, oral liquid, spray, and injection.
Don’t use meloxicam with other NSAIDs or steroids.
Table of contents
Effective pain control is crucial to your dog’s health and well-being. And nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the mainstays of treating pain in dogs.
Meloxicam is an NSAID used to manage pain in dogs. It may be a good option if your dog has arthritis or inflammation.
Meloxicam for dogs at a glance
Common names | Meloxicam (Metacam) |
What it treats | Pain, inflammation, arthritis |
How it comes (forms) | Tablets, liquid, spray, injection |
Meloxicam dosage for dogs | The first dose is 0.2 mg/kg of body weight once daily. The regular dose is usually 0.1 mg/kg once daily. |
Common side effects | Digestive issues like vomiting, soft stool, and poor appetite |
Average cost | $7-$30 for 30 tablets |
What is meloxicam for dogs, and how does it work?
Meloxicam (Metacam) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The FDA has approved it for use in dogs, and it comes in several forms.
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NSAIDs reduce pain in dogs by preventing the release of certain chemicals. When a dog gets hurt, the damaged tissue releases chemical messengers called prostaglandins. These chemicals make the tissue swell and send more pain signals from the nerves that surround the injury, causing your dog to feel more pain. Meloxicam is a type of NSAID that blocks the enzymes that create prostaglandins, which helps reduce swelling and pain.
What is meloxicam used for in dogs?
Meloxicam treats acute and chronic pain, inflammation, and fever in dogs. Veterinarians often prescribe it to reduce pain from arthritis. It can also treat pain associated with surgery.
What is the dosage of meloxicam for dogs, and how is it given?
Meloxicam can be given as an oral or injectable medication. The FDA has approved a liquid, oral spray, and chewable tablets. Meloxicam also comes in a tablet form for humans that some veterinarians will prescribe off-label for large dogs. The injectable form is usually only given in the hospital.
You must shake the liquid well and carefully measure it before giving it to your dog. Spray the oral spray inside your dog’s cheek. You can give the medication with food to help prevent upset stomach.
Oral meloxicam works quickly, providing relief within 1 to 2 hours.
Dogs that take meloxicam daily on a long-term basis need their blood work checked every 6 to 12 months.
Meloxicam dosage for dogs
Your dog’s first dose of meloxicam will likely be higher than what you’ll give them long term. The first dose is usually 0.2 mg/kg of body weight once daily. The regular dose is usually 0.1 mg/kg once daily.
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Your veterinarian will tell you how much meloxicam to give your dog.
What are the common side effects of meloxicam in dogs?
Most dogs don’t have many side effects when they take meloxicam. The most common side effects reported in dogs are gastrointestinal and include:
Soft poop or diarrhea
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If you notice these side effects, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What are the most serious risks of meloxicam for dogs?
Meloxicam rarely causes serious side effects in dogs. But possible risks include:
Severe vomiting
Bloody stool or black, tarry stool
Decrease or increase in urination
Pale gums
Yellowed gums, skin, or whites of eyes (jaundice)
Weakness and incoordination
Abdominal pain
Behavior changes
Inactivity
If you notice any of these side effects, stop giving meloxicam to your dog and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately.
Don’t give meloxicam to dogs that:
Have pre-existing kidney disease, liver disease, digestive problems, or a history of stomach ulcers
Are dehydrated
Are breeding, pregnant, or nursing
Are younger than 6 months old
Have bleeding disorders
Use meloxicam with caution in dogs with pre-existing heart conditions and dogs that are old, weak, or frail.
Does meloxicam interact with any other dog medications?
Meloxicam is an NSAID, so you shouldn’t give it at the same time as other NSAIDs. Other common NSAIDs for dogs include:
If your dog already takes an NSAID or any other prescription medications or supplements, let your veterinarian know.
Dogs taking any type of steroid, like prednisone, should also not take meloxicam.
What should you do if your dog misses a dose of meloxicam?
If you miss giving your dog a dose of meloxicam, give the next dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it’s close to when the next dose is due. Then give the next dose at the regular time.
Never give two doses of meloxicam within the same 24-hour period.
The bottom line
Meloxicam is a NSAID that is used to reduce acute and chronic pain in dogs. It’s generally safe for dogs and well tolerated. It can cause digestive side effects like vomiting or soft poop. Always give meloxicam under a licensed veterinarian’s guidance and supervision.
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References
Brooks, W. (2024). Meloxicam (Metacam). Veterinary Partner.
Plumb’s Veterinary Medication Guides. (2020). Meloxicam info sheet.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Get the facts about pain relievers for pets.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). What veterinarians should advise clients about pain control and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in dogs and cats.
