Meloxicam for Dogs

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

Meloxicam is an FDA-approved nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in dogs to relieve pain and inflammation, most commonly from osteoarthritis.

Veterinarians may also prescribe meloxicam for other painful conditions, including surgery recovery and injuries.

What Is Meloxicam Used for in Dogs?

Meloxicam is an FDA-approved veterinary nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is available as a prescription medication to control the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

A veterinarian may also prescribe meloxicam extra label to treat pain and inflammation associated with other conditions including surgery, injuries, cancer, or dental disease. This is called extra-label or off-label treatment because this use isn’t described on the drug label.

Meloxicam has also been used extra-label for pain relief and inflammation in other animals including horses, cows, sheep, goats, camels, pigs, birds, rabbits, ferrets, other small mammals and reptiles.

While meloxicam is FDA-approved for dogs, it is not approved for other animals. The term off- or extra- label use means that a medication can be used in a way or in a particular species that are not specified on the medication label.

Off- or extra- label use of a medication can only be done by a veterinarian who has direct and personal knowledge of your pet and when there are no other appropriate medications for a particular pet's circumstances.

The goal is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to help your dog feel better. Speak with your vet if meloxicam is right for your dog.

Meloxicam is available as brand name Metacam oral suspension and generic oral suspensions such as Loxicom and Meloxidyl. In certain circumstances, your vet may recommend a compounded formulation of meloxicam, such as another flavor of suspension or compounded into a tablet.

Compounded medications are prescribed if there’s a specific reason your pet’s health can’t be managed by an FDA-approved drug, such as if your pet has trouble taking the FDA approved formulation oral suspension, the dosage strength is not commercially available, or the pet is allergic to an ingredient in the FDA-approved medication.

Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are created by either a veterinarian or a licensed pharmacist on an individual basis to best suit a patient’s particular needs. You can learn more about compounded medications here.

How Meloxicam Works in Dogs

Meloxicam is an NSAID that works to reduce pain in dogs by blocking inflammation. NSAIDs reduce inflammation and pain by blocking certain chemical messengers in the body involved with inflammation.

Meloxicam Considerations for Dogs

Meloxicam should not be used in dogs with bleeding disorders or in those with a known hypersensitivity to it.

Meloxicam is approved for dogs 6 months of age and older. Do not use in breeding, pregnant, or nursing dogs.

Giving meloxicam with certain medications can result in health risks to your dog, so it is important to discuss your dog’s medical conditions and medications, including vitamins and supplements, with your veterinarian.

Meloxicam for Dogs Directions

Closely follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian.

Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage based on your pet’s weight and health issue.

Shake well before use.

Particular care should be given with regard to the accuracy of dosing. This medication is given once daily and comes as a flavored liquid which can be administered directly to your dog after a meal or given on their food, depending on the formulation and your dog’s weight.

For further instructions, please follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian. 

The brand name Metacam is available in two concentrations of liquid, so please ensure that your medication matches the drug label.

To prevent accidental overdosing of small dogs under ten pounds, administer the drops on food only, never directly into the mouth.

Missed a Dose?

If you forget to give a dose of meloxicam, give it when you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal every 24-hour dosing schedule. Do not give extra or double doses.

Possible Side Effects of Meloxicam in Dogs

Meloxicam is typically well tolerated by dogs, but serious side effects involving ulcers of the digestive tract, kidney or liver irritation can occur. Side effects are more common in cats.

Contact your veterinarian if you see any of the following signs:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea or soft stools

• Decreased appetite

• Dark, black, or tar-like stools

• Change in urination (frequency, color, or smell)

• Increased thirst

• Pale gum color

• Skin redness, scabs, or scratching

• Yellowing of the gums, skin, or whites of the eyes

• Decreased energy level (lethargy)

• Lack of coordination (ataxia )

• Seizures

Human Side Effects

Meloxicam is also a prescription medication for humans, frequently with dosages different from those prescribed for your pet by a veterinarian.

Due to possible side effects, humans should never use medicine dispensed for their pets, and pets should not be given any medicine prescribed for humans.

If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.

Monitoring

Monitoring kidney and liver function levels will likely be recommended before starting this medication. If your dog is going to be on this medication long term your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your dog’s individual needs, other medications they may be on and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication.

When to Call Your Vet

• Severe side effects are seen (see above) or if you see or suspect an overdose

• Your dog’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment

• You see or suspect an overdose

• Call your vet or pharmacist if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of meloxicam

Meloxicam Overdose in Dogs Information

The symptoms of overdose are related to kidney or liver changes/irritation, with vomiting and diarrhea being the most reported symptoms.

Overdoses of this medication can be very serious or even life-threatening. If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

How To Store Meloxicam for Dogs

Follow these tips when storing your dog’s meloxicam:

• Meloxicam should be stored at controlled room temperatures between 68 to 77 F (20 to 25 C).

• Brief exposure to temperatures 59 to 86 F (15 to 30 C) is acceptable.

• Always confirm storage requirements by reviewing the label.

• Keep the container tightly closed to protect from light.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.