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PetDosageChart

Metacam (Meloxicam) Dosage for Dogs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ⏱ Onset: 1-2 hours ⏳ Duration: 24 hours

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

Dosage Calculator

Enter your dog's weight to calculate the recommended dose.

Metacam Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 0mg 0mg 0.5mg once daily
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 0.5mg 0.5mg 1mg (1mg tablet) once daily
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 0.5mg 0.5mg 1.5mg once daily
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 1mg (1mg tablet) 1mg (1mg tablet) 2mg (2 × 1mg) once daily
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 1mg (1mg tablet) 1mg (1mg tablet) 2.5mg once daily
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 1.5mg 1.5mg 2.5mg once daily
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 2mg (2 × 1mg) 2mg (2 × 1mg) 3.5mg once daily
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 2.5mg 2.5mg 4.5mg once daily
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 2.5mg 2.5mg 5.5mg once daily
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 3mg (3 × 1mg) 3mg (3 × 1mg) 6.5mg once daily
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 3.5mg 3.5mg 7.5mg once daily
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 4mg (4 × 1mg) 4mg (4 × 1mg) 8mg (8 × 1mg) once daily
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 4.5mg 4.5mg 9mg (9 × 1mg) once daily
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 5.5mg 5.5mg 11mg (11 × 1mg) once daily
150 lbs (68 kg) 7mg (7 × 1mg) 7mg (7 × 1mg) 13.5mg once daily

What is Metacam (Meloxicam) used for in dogs?

osteoarthritis post-surgical pain inflammation

How to give Metacam to your dog

Meloxicam liquid comes with a dosing syringe for precise measurement. Give with food to minimize stomach upset. The first dose may be a "loading dose" (0.2 mg/kg) followed by 0.1 mg/kg daily. Do not combine with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Regular blood work is recommended for long-term use.

Available Forms

liquid suspension, tablet, injectable

Give with Food?

Yes — give with food

Side effects of Metacam in dogs

Common side effects

decreased appetite
vomiting
diarrhea
soft stool

Serious side effects

  • gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding
  • kidney damage
  • liver toxicity
  • jaundice

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

  • Dark or tarry stools
  • Vomiting or vomiting blood
  • Yellowing of gums or eyes
  • Increased thirst or urination
  • Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Is meloxicam safe for dogs?
Meloxicam is FDA-approved for dogs and is one of the most commonly prescribed NSAIDs for canine osteoarthritis. It is generally safe when used at the correct dose with veterinary supervision. Regular blood work is recommended for dogs on long-term therapy to monitor kidney and liver function.
What is the difference between meloxicam and carprofen?
Both are NSAIDs used for pain and inflammation in dogs. Meloxicam (Metacam) is given once daily as a liquid, making it easy to dose precisely. Carprofen (Rimadyl) is given as a flavored chewable tablet once or twice daily. Both are effective, and your vet will choose based on your dog's specific needs.
Can I give meloxicam to my cat?
While a single injectable dose of meloxicam is sometimes used in cats post-surgery, repeated oral dosing of meloxicam is NOT approved for cats in the US and carries a significant risk of kidney failure. Cats are much more sensitive to NSAIDs than dogs.
How long can a dog take meloxicam?
Meloxicam can be used long-term for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. Dogs on long-term meloxicam should have blood work checked every 6-12 months to monitor kidney and liver function. Always use the lowest effective dose.