Dog fever may be caused by a number of diseases, most commonly infections. Aspirin is a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug that can be used in dogs for different issues such as pain in the joints or muscles. However, aspirin may be used to reduce fever, provided it is administered in low amounts that will not cause poisoning.
Uses of Aspirin in Dogs
Aspirin is an anti inflammatory drug (NSAID) which may be used in different health issues that involve swelling, pain or fever. Aspirin may be used in problems such as:
- Joint pain and swelling
- Inflammation of tendons or tendonitis
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Mild pain
Aspirin and Fever
Aspirin may be used in dogs to reduce fever, as aspirin has an antipyretic effect. However, it is essential to give a low dose of aspirin only. Administered in high doses, aspirin may be poisonous.
The dog should get no more than 5 to 10 mg per pound of body weight. This dose can be administered twice per day. However, a vet should be consulted before administering aspirin for your dog.
Avoid other non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs similar to aspirin such as ibuprofen, which are poisonous for dogs.
Aspirin may be damaging for the stomach lining so you should always administer the aspirin after the dog eats, so that the stomach is protected. Administering aspirin on an empty stomach may lead to stomach ulcers.
If the dog refuses to take the aspirin, you may administer this inside a treat.
Contraindications
Aspirin for fever can be safely administered in dogs. However, if the dog receives treatment with different steroids or corticosteroids, these drugs may interact with aspirin.
Ideally, a dog under steroids shouldn’t get aspirin.
Also, if the dog has stomach ulcers or a sensitive stomach, aspirin should be avoided.
Aspirin Side Effects
Aspirin is a safe drug that may be used in dogs with fever, but in some dogs it may cause a few side effects such as:
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Blood coagulation problems and the dog may easily bruise
- Lack of appetite
If the aspirin is administered for a long period of time, this may cause stomach ulcers and may also affect the normal function of the kidneys and the liver. Ideally, you should opt for buffered or coated aspirin, which will not be as damaging for the stomach lining as regular aspirin.
Aspirin with an enteric coating may not be healthy for the dog’s liver, as the liver will not be able to assimilate the coating.
Due to these possible side effects, aspirin shouldn’t be administered for a lengthy period.
Aspirin and Poisoning
If administered in high doses, aspirin will be poisonous for the dog. You should be able to recognize poisoning symptoms such as vomiting (often with blood in it), pale gums, breathing problems, seizures and restlessness.
You shouldn’t leave open aspirin bottles in the dog’s environment as he may accidentally swallow the pills.