Meloxicam for Pets

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used by veterinarians to help control pain and inflammation. It is commonly prescribed for dogs, while use in cats requires extra caution in the United States because repeated use has been linked to serious kidney injury.

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Meloxicam quick facts

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Drug class

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), often described as COX-2 preferential.

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Common brand names

Metacam, Meloxidyl, Loxicom, and other veterinary-labeled generics.

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Forms

Oral suspension, injection, and some veterinary-labeled oral products depending on market and approval.

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Species approved for

Dogs: oral and injectable veterinary products are available in the U.S. Cats: in the U.S., meloxicam is approved as a one-time injection only; repeated use in cats has a boxed warning due to kidney failure risk.

What Meloxicam Is Used For

Meloxicam is used to reduce pain and inflammation. In dogs, veterinarians commonly prescribe it for osteoarthritis and sometimes for pain associated with surgery. It works by blocking inflammatory pathways involved in pain and swelling. In cats, meloxicam may be used only in very specific situations under veterinary supervision, and U.S. safety warnings make repeated dosing a major concern. Because this medication can affect the kidneys, stomach, intestines, and blood flow, your veterinarian may recommend bloodwork and urine testing before or during treatment, especially for long-term use or in pets with other health conditions.

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Side Effects to Watch For

Common side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, tiredness, and soft stools. More serious side effects may include black or bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe lethargy, increased thirst or urination, decreased urination, pale gums, weakness, jaundice, collapse, seizures, or facial swelling/hives suggestive of an allergic reaction. Stop giving the medication and call your vet right away if your pet seems painful in a new way, becomes dehydrated, or develops stomach upset that does not quickly improve. NSAIDs should not be combined with other NSAIDs or steroids unless your veterinarian specifically directs it.

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Dosing & Administration

Always follow your vet's instructions exactly. Never change the amount, frequency, or duration on your own. Give meloxicam only as prescribed for your pet and species, using the veterinary product and measuring device provided. Do not give human meloxicam or another pet's prescription unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to. Give it with or without food based on your veterinarian's directions; if stomach upset occurs, call your vet for advice. Make sure your pet has access to water, and tell your veterinarian about any history of kidney disease, liver disease, stomach ulcers, dehydration, bleeding disorders, or other medications and supplements your pet takes.

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When to call a vet about meloxicam

Emergency

Go to the ER now

● Your pet may have taken an overdose or chewed into the bottle.
● Trouble breathing, facial swelling, hives, or collapse after a dose.
● Repeated vomiting, bloody vomit, black/tarry stool, or severe weakness.
● Not urinating, marked increase in thirst with illness, seizures, or sudden collapse.
● A cat received repeated doses or an oral meloxicam product without direct veterinary instruction.

Urgent

See a vet within 24 hours

● Vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, or lethargy that persists beyond a mild short-lived reaction.
● New wobbliness, weakness, pale gums, or behavior changes after starting the medication.
● Your pet is drinking or urinating much more or much less than usual.
● You accidentally gave meloxicam with another NSAID or a steroid.

Monitor

Watch at home, call if it worsens

● A single mild episode of stomach upset with otherwise normal energy and hydration.
● Temporary fussiness about taking the medication.
● Mild decrease in appetite that resolves quickly after you contact your vet for advice.

Meloxicam FAQs

Can I give my dog human meloxicam?

Do not give human meloxicam unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to. Human products can create dosing and safety problems, and pets should only receive a veterinary-directed formulation.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Follow your veterinarian's instructions. In general, if you miss a dose, contact your vet or pharmacist for guidance. Do not double the next dose unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to.

Can my cat take meloxicam?

Cats require special caution. In the United States, meloxicam is approved for cats only as a one-time injection, and repeated use has been associated with acute kidney failure and death. If your cat has been prescribed meloxicam, follow your veterinarian's instructions exactly and ask if any monitoring is needed.

Can meloxicam be given with other pain medications?

Sometimes, but only under veterinary guidance. Meloxicam should not be combined with other NSAIDs or steroid medications unless your veterinarian specifically directs it, because this can increase the risk of serious side effects.

How long does my pet need to take meloxicam?

That depends on why it was prescribed. Some pets receive it short-term after a procedure, while others may use it longer for chronic pain under veterinary monitoring. Follow your vet's instructions and keep all recommended recheck appointments.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.

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