Canine osteoarthritis is a type of joint disorder that makes your pet very uncomfortable. Dogs suffering from this medical condition experience joint pain, inflammation and reduced mobility. The pain and discomfort prevents your dog from carrying out normal activities like walking and climbing. Some dogs prefer to be left alone because of the pain they experience while others may show signs like reduced playfulness.
Treatment of Canine Osteoarthiritis
Although there aren’t any specific drugs that completely treat osteoarthritis, certain medications help your pet because they provide relief from the inflammation and pain. You could also consider using alternative treatment options to control the progress of osteoarthritis. One of the most commonly used medications for canine osteoarthritis is metacam.
This medication is a non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation without causing too many side effects.
Metacam for Dogs
Metacam is a prescription medication that’s available as an oral suspension. It contains the active ingredients Meloxicam and Sodium Benzoate and is available in varying potencies. This medication lowers certain hormones in the pet’s body that are known to cause inflammation, pain and discomfort.
The formula is ideal for pets suffering from osteoarthritis, arthropathy and musculoskeletal disorders. It can also be administered to pets that are suffering from soft tissue injury.
Dosage and Administration of Metacam
Since it’s a prescription medication, you should follow the instructions of the vet in order to dose the pet appropriately. As a general guideline, pets that weigh over 10 pounds should be given 0.1mg of the suspension per pound of body weight on the first day of administration. The pet should then be given 0.05 mg of medication, per pound of body weight, once every day.
You should use the syringe that’s provided with the medication in order to measure the dose correctly. Once measured, the medication may be given orally or mixed with the dog’s food.
Precautions for Metacam
Although metacam brings relief to pets suffering from osteoarthritis it’s not meant for use in all dogs. The medication is not safe for use in pets suffering from kidney disorders, heart diseases and liver disorders. It’s not ideal for use in all pregnant dogs and shouldn’t be given to lactating pets.
If your dog has had an allergic reaction to other NSAID medications in the past you must inform the vet as metacam may not be the best medication for your dog. You should also watch for any adverse reactions after you start administering metacam.
Side Effects of Metacam
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Tarry stools
- Facial hives
Tips for Pet Owners Using Metacam
If you notice any of the side effects mentioned above, seek medical help as soon as possible. Also give your dog plenty of fresh water to drink when you start treating him with metacam. Although NSAID medications bring prompt relief from pain, they shouldn’t be administered for life as they have their own side effects.
You should therefore look for herbal medications or joint supplements that will improve joint and cartilage health, and promote mobility.