When your dog is in pain from arthritis, surgery, or other conditions, Metacam (meloxicam) can provide much-needed relief. However, determining the correct dosage is crucial for your pet’s safety. Our Metacam dosage calculator takes the guesswork out of measuring this NSAID medication for your canine companion.
Understanding Metacam for Canine Use
Metacam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically formulated for dogs. Its active ingredient, meloxicam, helps reduce pain and inflammation associated with:
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Osteoarthritis
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Post-surgical pain
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Musculoskeletal disorders
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Chronic joint conditions
The medication comes in two concentrations:
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1.5 mg/mL oral suspension (for small dogs under 10kg)
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0.5 mg/mL oral suspension (for larger dogs over 10kg)
How to Use Our Metacam Dosage Calculator
Our calculator above provides instant dosage recommendations based on:
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Your dog’s weight in kilograms
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The Metacam concentration you’re using
Simply enter your dog’s weight, select the appropriate concentration, and click “Calculate Dosage” to get precise measurements in both milligrams (mg) and milliliters (mL).
Standard Metacam Dosage Guidelines
The typical Metacam dosage regimen for dogs follows this pattern:
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Initial dose (first day): 0.1 mg per kg of body weight
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Maintenance dose (subsequent days): 0.05 mg per kg of body weight
For example:
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A 5kg dog would receive 0.5mg (about 0.33mL of 1.5mg/mL solution) on day one
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The same dog would get 0.25mg (about 0.17mL) on following days
Important Safety Considerations
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Veterinary Supervision: Always consult your vet before starting Metacam
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Accurate Measurement: Use only the dosing syringe provided with the medication
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Administration: Give with food to reduce stomach upset
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Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times
Potential Side Effects to Monitor
While generally safe when properly dosed, Metacam can cause:
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Decreased appetite
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Lethargy
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Changes in drinking or urination habits
Discontinue use and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:
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Black, tarry stools
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Yellowing of gums or eyes
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Severe vomiting
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Difficulty breathing
Alternatives to Metacam for Pain Management
For dogs who don’t tolerate Metacam well, your vet may recommend:
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Other NSAIDs (Rimadyl, Previcox)
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Gabapentin for nerve pain
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Adequan injections for joint health
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Physical therapy and weight management
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Natural supplements (glucosamine, omega-3s)
Related Article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use human meloxicam for my dog?
A: No, human formulations may contain unsafe additives and different concentrations. Always use veterinary-prescribed Metacam.
Q: How long does it take for Metacam to work?
A: Most dogs show improvement within 1-2 hours of administration, with full effects typically noticeable within 24 hours.
Q: Can Metacam be given long-term?
A: For chronic conditions like arthritis, many dogs take Metacam long-term under veterinary supervision with regular bloodwork monitoring.
Q: What if I accidentally give too much Metacam?
A: Contact your veterinarian or emergency pet poison control immediately if an overdose occurs.
Final Thoughts:
Our Metacam dosage calculator provides a helpful starting point, but remember that individual dogs may require adjustments based on:
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Overall health status
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Kidney and liver function
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Other medications being taken
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Specific condition being treated
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for dogs on long-term Metacam therapy. By combining accurate dosing with proper monitoring, you can help your canine friend enjoy a more comfortable, pain-free life.