Metacam (Meloxicam) Dose for Dogs & Cats: Strengths & Dose Calculator
Metacam is meloxicam from Boehringer Ingelheim: the oral suspension (1.5 mg/mL) is for dogs only, at 0.2 mg/kg on day 1 then 0.1 mg/kg once daily [1], and the 5 mg/mL injection is for dogs and a single 0.3 mg/kg dose in cats [2].
- Contains
- Meloxicam
- Forms
- Metacam oral suspension 1.5 mg/mL
Metacam injection 5 mg/mL - Label species
- Dogs, Cats
- Data from
- USA (FDA label)
- Type
- NSAID / pain relief
Metacam dose calculator
Results are calculated in your browser from the doses and strengths on this page. Check the strength printed on your pack and the label in your country before giving any dose.
Metacam strengths and presentations
Metacam dose by species
Label directions
Warnings and precautions
About meloxicam (the active ingredient)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID, oxicam).
How it works
NSAIDs act mainly by reducing prostaglandin synthesis through inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX); COX-2 inhibition is thought to give the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects, while concurrent COX-1 inhibition may cause many adverse effects [3]. Reported COX-1:COX-2 ratios suggest meloxicam is COX-2 selective [3].
Key safety points
- Vomiting is the most common adverse effect of NSAIDs; gastrointestinal ulceration is the most common life-threatening one [3].
- Animals with underlying renal compromise may get worse on NSAIDs, and COX-2 selective drugs are not safer for the kidneys [3].
- Boxed warning (US): repeated use of meloxicam in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death — do not give additional injectable or oral meloxicam to cats [2].
- Dogs with known hypersensitivity to meloxicam should not receive it (Metacam oral suspension label) [1].
Pack sizes
- Oral suspension: 10, 32, 100 and 180 mL dropper bottles with measuring syringe [1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the Metacam dose for dogs?
0.2 mg/kg on the first day, then 0.1 mg/kg once daily [1].
Other brands of meloxicam
More from Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health
Metacam is a trademark of its owner. This page is an independent clinical reference and is not affiliated with Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health. Strengths, species and withdrawal periods can differ between countries — always follow the pack insert in your country.
References
- METACAM (meloxicam) oral suspension — label
Passage read from this source
Each milliliter of METACAM Oral Suspension contains meloxicam equivalent to 1.5 milligrams
Do not use METACAM Oral Suspension in cats.
10, 32, 100 and 180 mL dropper bottles with measuring syringe.
initially at 0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) body weight only on the first day of treatment.
- METACAM (meloxicam) injection — label
Passage read from this source
METACAM 5 mg/mL Solution for Injection
followed, after 24 hours, by METACAM Oral Suspension at the daily dose of 0.045 mg/lb (0.1 mg/kg) body weight
Do not use meloxicam in cats with pre-existing renal dysfunction.
at 0.09 mg/lb (0.2 mg/kg) body weight intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously (SQ),
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Animals
Passage read from this source
NSAIDs act primarily to reduce the biosynthesis of prostaglandins by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX).
In dogs, a one-time loading dose of 0.2 mg/kg, PO, is recommended, followed by 0.1 mg/kg per day, PO.
In the EU and other countries, it is approved for use in dogs, cats, cattle, pigs, and horses
Vomiting is the most commonly observed adverse effect
For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.