How to give Meloxicam to cats? - briefly
To administer Meloxicam to cats, it is typically given orally in the form of a liquid suspension. The recommended dosage is usually 0.1mg per kilogram of body weight, once daily for up to five days.
How to give Meloxicam to cats? - in detail
Giving Meloxicam to cats requires careful consideration and strict adherence to veterinary instructions. Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used in feline medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, administering it incorrectly can lead to serious side effects. Here's how you should proceed:
Firstly, always consult with your veterinarian before starting any medication regimen. They will provide specific instructions tailored to your cat's health condition and needs. Meloxicam is typically prescribed for conditions such as osteoarthritis, post-operative pain management, or inflammation associated with other diseases.
When administering Meloxicam, follow these steps:
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Dosage: The usual dose for cats is 0.05 mg per kilogram of body weight, given once daily. However, this can vary depending on your cat's specific condition and your veterinarian’s advice. Always adhere to the prescribed dosage.
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Formulation: Meloxicam is available in both injectable and oral formulations. For home administration, the oral suspension is most commonly used. Ensure you have the correct formulation as prescribed by your vet.
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Preparation: Shake the oral suspension well before use to ensure even distribution of the drug. Use the measuring syringe provided with the medication to accurately measure the dose.
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Administration: Cats are notoriously finicky about taking medicine, so you may need to be creative and patient. Here are some tips:
- Direct Administration: Open your cat’s mouth gently by pressing on the sides of their mouth with your thumb and index finger. Tilt their head back slightly and use the syringe to administer the medication onto the side of their cheek, avoiding the teeth. Gently rub their throat to encourage swallowing.
- Food or Treat: Mix the Meloxicam with a small amount of wet food or hide it in a pill pocket treat. Ensure your cat eats all of the mixture to get the full dose.
- Compounding: If your cat is particularly difficult, consider compounding the medication into a more palatable form, such as a flavored gel or liquid, through a veterinary pharmacy.
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Monitoring: Keep an eye on your cat after administering Meloxicam for any adverse reactions. Common side effects include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in behavior. If you notice these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Storage: Store the medication as instructed by your vet or pharmacist. Typically, it should be kept at room temperature and away from direct sunlight and moisture.
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Completion of Course: It’s crucial to complete the full course of Meloxicam as prescribed by your veterinarian. Stopping the medication early can lead to ineffective treatment and potential relapse of symptoms.
In summary, administering Meloxicam to cats involves precise dosage measurement, careful administration techniques, and diligent monitoring for side effects. Always follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions tailored to your cat's needs.