Meloxicam (brand names Metacam® Loxicom®, OroCAM®, Rheumocam) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever in dogs and cats. It is indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs and cats. Meloxicam is also used to treat pain associated with surgery.
Metacam is an anti-inflammatory medicine used in cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, cats and guinea pigs. In cattle, Metacam is used together with antibiotics, to reduce clinical signs such as fever and inflammation in acute (short-term) respiratory infection (infection of the lungs and airways).
Gastrointestinal: vomiting, diarrhea. Renal and urinary: renal disorder, renal failure, urine abnormalities. Repeat dosing in cats at doses higher than currently recommended has been associated with acute renal failure and death.
The product insert for Metacam now reads: “Repeated use of meloxicam in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death. Do not administer additional doses of injectable or oral meloxicam to cats.”
Side Effects of Metacam
- diarrhea.
- upper respiratory infection.
- upset stomach.
- flu-like symptoms.
- edema, or swelling.
- stomach pain.
- gas.
- digestive problems.
Shelf-life of opened bottle: 6 months. Do not use after the expiry date stated on the carton and the bottle.
Other Options
- Opioids. These include codeine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, morphine, and tramadol and are used for severe discomfort.
- Corticosteroids.
- Gabapentin.
- Amitriptyline.An antidepressant in humans, it can help with nerve pain in cats.
- Buprenorphine HCl.
Metacam Oral Suspension may be either mixed with food or placed directly into the mouth. Particular care should be given with regard to the accuracy of dosing. Metacam Oral Suspension can be given using the measuring syringe provided in the package (see dosing procedure below).
Signs that your cat is in pain include:
- Agitation (unsettled, trembling)
- Cat crying, growling, hissing.
- Limping or difficulty jumping.
- Avoids being petted or handled.
- Playing less.
- Licking a particular body region.
- More aggressive.
- Change in posture or gait.
What About NSAIDs That Are Made for Cats? Currently, there is only one oral NSAID that is FDA-approved for use in felines, called Onsior (robenacoxib). But it is only prescribed for short-term use (three days at a maximum) and can only be given once a day.
Amoxicillin—Amoxicillin is prescribed by veterinarians to treat bacterial infections in cats. It is highly effective against everything from skin infections to gastrointestinal infections.
Metacam Chewable Tablets - 2.5mgThis is a POM-V Product (Prescription Only Medication-Veterinary). We require a valid written veterinary prescription prior to dispatch. Metacam Chewable Tablets 2.5mg are convenient treats that relieves pain and inflammation caused by musco-skeletal conditions.
What is the risk associated with Loxicom? Side effects sometimes seen with other NSAIDs, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, blood appearing in the stools, renal (kidney) failure and apathy (lack of vitality) are occasionally seen with Loxicom in dogs and cats.
Timing: Ensure dose is delivered at the same time each day. A clinical response is normally seen within 3-4 days. If no improvement is noticeable after 10 days of treatment, please consult a veterinary surgeon.
Metacam is registered for both acute and chronic use in cats.
