Metacam (Meloxicam) Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Metacam is a brand name for the drug meloxicam — a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used as a pain medicine for dogs and other animals. Our Metacam dosage calculator for dogs helps you quickly determine the correct dose based on your dog's weight, whether you're using the liquid solution or chewable tablets.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and cannot replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. In case of overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What is Metacam Used for in Dogs?
Metacam for dogs is used to treat the following conditions:
- Acute pain — after injury or surgery
- Chronic pain — long-term pain management
- Osteoarthritis — joint inflammation and degeneration
Other dog painkillers include tramadol, carprofen, and deracoxib.
How to Use the Metacam Dosage Calculator
- Enter your dog's weight. Switch between kg, lb, or lb + oz — whichever is most comfortable.
- Select the type of Metacam medication you have: Solution or Tablets.
- If you chose Solution, enter its concentration in mg/ml (usually printed on the bottle).
- Press Calculate to see the results instantly.
The calculator shows two different doses. On the first day of therapy, the Metacam canine dosage (initial dose) is greater than on all subsequent days (maintenance dose).
Metacam Dosage for Dogs — Standard Doses
| Day | Dose (per kg) | Dose (per lb) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 (Initial) | 0.2 mg/kg | ≈ 0.09 mg/lb |
| Day 2+ (Maintenance) | 0.1 mg/kg | ≈ 0.045 mg/lb |
Metacam Tablets Dosage Chart for Dogs
Metacam tablets come in 1 mg and 2.5 mg strengths. Since tablets are not easily divisible, dosage is rounded to the nearest 0.5 tablet.
| Body Weight | Tablet Used | Maintenance Tablets / Day |
|---|---|---|
| 8.8–15.4 lb (4–7 kg) | 1 mg | 0.5 |
| 15.5–22.1 lb (7.1–10 kg) | 1 mg | 1 |
| 22.2–33.1 lb (10.1–15 kg) | 1 mg | 1.5 |
| 33.2–44.1 lb (15.1–20 kg) | 1 mg | 2 |
| 44.2–55.1 lb (20.1–25 kg) | 2.5 mg | 1 |
| 55.2–77.2 lb (25.1–35 kg) | 2.5 mg | 1.5 |
| 77.3–110.2 lb (35.1–50 kg) | 2.5 mg | 2 |
How to Administer Metacam to Your Dog
Solution
Use the measuring syringe provided with the medication. You can place the drops directly onto your dog's food or give it directly into the mouth. Important: If you have a small dog (under 10 lb / 4.5 kg), do not put the medication directly into the dog's mouth to prevent accidental overdosing — add it to food instead.
Tablets
Metacam tablets are meat-flavored, and most dogs will voluntarily eat them. You can offer the tablet as a treat or hide it in a small piece of food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is meloxicam safe for dogs?
Given correctly and under veterinarian surveillance, meloxicam is a safe drug for dogs. However, as with any medication, you should observe your pet for any adverse reactions. The most common ones include vomiting and diarrhea. Contact your vet if side effects occur.
What dose of meloxicam is safe for dogs?
The standard dose is 0.2 mg/kg on Day 1 (initial dose) and 0.1 mg/kg on all subsequent days (maintenance dose). These translate to approximately 0.09 mg/lb and 0.045 mg/lb respectively in the imperial system.
Can you give a dog human meloxicam?
No. Human meloxicam tablets and formulations are not the same as veterinary Metacam. The dosing and concentrations differ significantly. Never give human medications to your dog without explicit veterinary guidance.
What happens in case of overdose?
In case of an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and abdominal pain.