Meloxicam Dog Dosage Calculator
Reference guide for meloxicam dosing in dogs
Dog Weight (lbs)
Dose Phase
Meloxicam for Dogs: What You Need to Know
Meloxicam (brand name Metacam) is a veterinary NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) prescribed for pain and inflammation in dogs — most commonly for osteoarthritis, post-surgical pain, and soft tissue injuries. It requires a prescription and should only be used under veterinary supervision.
Standard Meloxicam Dosage Reference for Dogs
| Dog Weight | Loading Dose | Maintenance Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs (4.5 kg) | 0.9 mg | 0.45 mg |
| 25 lbs (11.3 kg) | 2.3 mg | 1.1 mg |
| 50 lbs (22.7 kg) | 4.5 mg | 2.3 mg |
| 75 lbs (34 kg) | 6.8 mg | 3.4 mg |
Meloxicam Safety: Important Warnings
- ❌ Never use without vet prescription
- ❌ Do not combine with aspirin, corticosteroids, or other NSAIDs
- ❌ Avoid in dogs with kidney disease, liver disease, or GI ulcers
- ✅ Always give with food to reduce stomach upset
- ✅ Monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or black/tarry stools
FAQs
Can I give my dog human meloxicam?
No. Human meloxicam tablets are much higher doses than veterinary formulations and can easily cause fatal toxicity in dogs. Only use veterinary-specific meloxicam (e.g. Metacam oral suspension) as prescribed by your vet.
How long does meloxicam take to work in dogs?
Most dogs show improvement within 1-3 days. The full anti-inflammatory effect is typically seen within 3-5 days of consistent dosing.
Conclusion
Our meloxicam dog dosage calculator is a reference tool only — always follow your vet’s specific prescription. For overall dog health monitoring, use our weight calculator and calorie calculator.