Calcule a dose precisa de Metacam (meloxicam) para gatos com base no peso corporal. Anti-inflamatório não esteroide para controle de dor e inflamação.
Metacam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief and inflammation in cats. It's commonly prescribed for post-surgical pain or acute musculoskeletal disorders.
FDA Status: In the USA, meloxicam is only approved for single-dose injectable use in cats. Oral formulations for long-term use are available in some countries under veterinary prescription.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. Metacam must ONLY be administered under direct veterinary supervision. Incorrect dosing can cause serious kidney damage or death in cats.
Metacam, the brand name for meloxicam, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed for pain management in cats. This medication works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes that produce inflammatory prostaglandins, thereby reducing pain, swelling, and fever. Veterinarians prescribe Metacam for various conditions including post-operative pain following surgeries, acute musculoskeletal injuries, and chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis. Unlike some NSAIDs, meloxicam has been specifically formulated for veterinary use with dosing protocols tailored to feline physiology. Understanding proper dosing is crucial because cats metabolize NSAIDs differently than dogs or humans, making them more susceptible to adverse effects if dosed incorrectly.
Dosing protocols for Metacam in cats vary based on the condition being treated and whether it's the initial dose or a maintenance dose. For post-operative pain and acute musculoskeletal conditions, the typical initial dose is 0.2 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, followed by maintenance doses of 0.05 mg/kg administered once daily. For chronic musculoskeletal pain, such as osteoarthritis, the initial dose is usually lower at 0.1 mg/kg, with the same 0.05 mg/kg maintenance dose. A 4-kilogram cat receiving treatment for post-surgical pain would receive 0.8 mg initially, then 0.2 mg per day for subsequent doses. Metacam is available in different concentrations—0.5 mg/mL oral suspension for at-home use and 2 mg/mL injectable solution for veterinary clinic administration.
While Metacam is generally safe when used as directed, it carries potential risks that require careful monitoring. Side effects occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 treated cats but can include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in rare cases, more serious complications such as kidney damage or gastrointestinal ulceration. Cats with pre-existing kidney disease, liver disease, or gastrointestinal problems require extra caution and may not be suitable candidates for meloxicam therapy. Never combine Metacam with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids, as this significantly increases the risk of adverse effects. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, and schedule regular veterinary check-ups including bloodwork to monitor kidney and liver function during long-term use. If your cat shows any signs of adverse reactions, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Dosagens de medicamentos, previsões de crescimento e calculadoras avançadas de saúde para gatos
Explore CategoryFor post-operative or acute pain, Metacam is typically prescribed for 3 to 5 days. For chronic conditions like arthritis, cats may receive longer-term treatment, but this requires close veterinary supervision with regular monitoring of kidney and liver function through bloodwork. Some cats tolerate long-term use well, while others may need the lowest effective dose or alternative pain management strategies. The duration should always be determined by your veterinarian based on your cat's response and health status.
Yes, Metacam oral suspension can be given with or without food. Some veterinarians recommend administering it with a small amount of food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset. However, food doesn't significantly affect absorption, so the most important factor is consistency—give it the same way each time. The liquid formulation can be mixed with food or given directly into the mouth using the measuring syringe provided.
While the active ingredient (meloxicam) is the same, the formulations and dosing protocols differ significantly. Cat Metacam typically comes in lower concentrations and requires much smaller doses because cats metabolize NSAIDs more slowly than dogs. Dog Metacam should never be given to cats at dog dosing rates, as this would constitute a dangerous overdose. Always use the specifically prescribed veterinary product and follow feline dosing guidelines exactly as directed by your veterinarian.
If your cat vomits within an hour of receiving Metacam, contact your veterinarian before giving another dose. Vomiting can be a sign of gastrointestinal irritation or sensitivity to the medication. Your vet may recommend giving the next dose with food, switching to a different pain medication, or adjusting the dose. If vomiting is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or dark stools, seek veterinary attention immediately as these could indicate more serious complications.
Metacam can interact with several medications, so always inform your veterinarian about all medications and supplements your cat is taking. Never combine Metacam with other NSAIDs, aspirin, or corticosteroids (prednisone, dexamethasone) as this dramatically increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and kidney damage. Some antibiotics, diuretics, and heart medications may also interact with meloxicam. Your veterinarian will evaluate potential interactions and adjust treatment plans accordingly to ensure your cat's safety.