Meloxicam for Dogs and Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Veterinarians may prescribe Meloxicam for dogs and cats to manage:

• Osteoarthritis and chronic joint pain in dogs
• Short-term pain relief in cats, always under veterinary supervision
• Acute musculoskeletal injury
• Post-surgical pain and inflammation
• Soft tissue inflammation
• Pain associated with trauma

Meloxicam does not:

• Treat the underlying cause of the disease
• Replace physical rest or rehabilitation
• Act as a sedative
• Cure infections

Key differences in cats:

• Drug clearance is slower
• Accumulation can occur with repeated dosing
• The risk of kidney injury is significantly higher

For this reason, the use of Meloxicam in cats is more restricted. Its approved and labelled use is typically limited to:

• A single injection for post-operative pain
• Or a very low-dose oral dose under strict veterinary supervision

Typically, for dogs, a veterinarian may prescribe:

• First day (especially after surgery, trauma, or injury): 0.2 mg/kg
• Following days: 0.1 mg/kg once daily

Dogs on Meloxicam may require:

• Baseline blood tests before long-term use
• Periodic monitoring of kidney and liver values

Puppies are more sensitive to meloxicam (NSAIDs) due to:

• Immature kidney function
• Developing liver metabolism

Veterinarians may:

• Use lower doses
• Limit duration
• Avoid use in very young or dehydrated puppies

Small dogs are at higher risk of dosing errors because they need minimal amounts of medication. Even minor miscalculations can result in an overdose. Key points:

• Accurate weighing is essential
• Liquid formulations must be measured precisely
• Close monitoring for side effects is advised

Medium-sized dogs often tolerate Meloxicam predictably when dosed correctly. However, individual sensitivity varies, especially in dogs with:

• Pre-existing kidney disease
• Gastrointestinal sensitivity
• Concurrent medications

Large dogs may require higher total doses based on body weight, but this does not mean they tolerate NSAIDs better. Veterinarians may recommend:

• Regular reassessment of pain control
• Bloodwork during prolonged therapy
• Lowest effective dose for the shortest duration

Meloxicam use in cats is highly regulated and must be administered exactly as directed by a veterinarian. Key considerations:

• In some cases, vets may give 0.1 mg per kg of body weight once a day
• It can be given by mouth (pill or liquid), under the skin, through a vein, or as a muscle injection
• Usually, cats only get a single dose or very short-term treatment to reduce the risk of kidney problems

Pet parents should:

• Never give Meloxicam formulated for dogs to cats
• Never repeat doses without approval
• Never assume “small amounts” are safe

Kittens are especially vulnerable to NSAID toxicity because:

• Their kidneys are still developing
• Drug clearance is slow
• Dehydration risk is higher

Common potential side effects:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea or loose stool
• Reduced appetite
• Lethargy

Serious adverse effects:

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding
• Kidney injury
• Liver enzyme elevation
• Change in thirst level
• Skin problems (scabs, redness, or itching)
• Change in activity level
• Seizure
• Coordination issue
• Aggression

Overdose in dogs may result in:

• Severe vomiting or diarrhoea
• Black, tarry stools (intestinal bleeding)
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy or collapse
• Increased thirst or urination

In cats, overdose, even small amounts, can cause:

• Acute kidney failure
• Severe lethargy
• Vomiting
• Reduced urine output

• Store at room temperature
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep in original packaging
• Keep out of reach of pets and children
• Do not use expired medication

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet shows any signs of an emergency, including:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than 24 hours
• Refusal to eat
• Black or bloody stools
• Increased thirst or urination
• Lethargy, weakness, or collapse
• Accidental overdose or missed doses