Last Updated: 28/05/2025
Meloxicam (Metacam) Medication Guide
Learn all about meloxicam for dogs and cats: uses precautions side effects and much more.
Author: Dr Tiffany Barnsdale BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 15 minutes - medium read
Last Updated: 28/05/2025
Learn all about meloxicam for dogs and cats: uses precautions side effects and much more.
Author: Dr Tiffany Barnsdale BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 15 minutes - medium read
Meloxicam is classed as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication. Medications in this class block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), this enzyme is involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are the substances that trigger inflammation, pain, fever and swelling. Therefore, Meloxicam is used to control inflammation, pain, fever and swelling.
Meloxicam is commonly used in dogs and cats to control arthritis pain. It can also be prescribed after surgery, for injuries, cancer and dental infections.
For dogs, Meloxicam is available as an oral liquid, injection and chewable tablet.
For cats it is only available as an oral liquid or injection. It is commonly administered once daily with food.
The most common side effect we see in dogs is gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhoea and loss of appetite.
Meloxicam is used more cautiously in cats due to the potential for kidney damage if used in cats with undiagnosed kidney disease. Your vet will often recommend blood and urine tests to confirm the suitability before prescribing. As with dogs, vomiting, diarrhoea and loss of appetite are also side effects seen in cats.
In rare cases, pets may have more serious adverse reactions to Meloxicam including liver and kidney problems. If you notice any of the side effects mentioned above contact your prescribing veterinarian immediately.
Use Meloxicam with caution in:
Meloxicam should not be used in:
Meloxicam should be used with extreme caution if the patient is already on steroids (e.g. prednisolone).
Other drugs that may cause adverse reactions if used in combination with Metacam include: diuretics, anticoagulants, antibiotics, antifungals and immunosuppressive drugs.
Store meloxicam at room temperature. Do not use after the expiration date stated on the bottle.
Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Initially, a single dose of 0.2 mg/kg bodyweight is given. Following this, treatment is continued at 24 hour intervals at a maintenance dose of 0.1 mg/kg bodyweight (via oral administration). It is crucial that you follow your prescribing veterinarians specific dosing instructions.
If you miss your pet's dose of Meloxicam and it is MORE than 12 hours before the next scheduled dose, give the missed dose immediately.
If you miss your pet's dose of Meloxicam and it is LESS than 12 hours before the next scheduled dose, either:
Never give your pet more than prescribed dose (i.e. NEVER double dose or give at more regular intervals).
It is recommended that you follow your treating veterinarians instructions in terms of duration of treatment. There is no need to taper off when the course is finished. Any cessation or change to your pet's medication should only be done under the close supervision and recommendation of your treating Veterinarian.
If you suspect your pet has overdosed on Meloxicam, contact your prescribing veterinarian immediately. If you are unable to get in contact with them, call your local emergency veterinary clinic for advice.
It is important that your pet is monitored closely if on meloxicam. Blood tests before commencing a course and regular blood testing (at least anually) if used long term is recommended. These blood tests will help to monitor liver and kidney function and can also help to detect signs of gastointestinal ulceration.
Alternative NSAIDs to Metacam include:
Other pain medications commonly used in dogs and cats are:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/meloxicam
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102894&id=4952109
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/pain-management-for-dogs
