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Meloxicam

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Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent used to relieve pain and inflammation in dogs and cats. It is indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Meloxicam has also been used to treat pain associated with surgery.

How do I give this medication?meloxicam-1

  • Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
  • Carefully measure liquid medication. Always give with food.
  • Try to give this medication at about the same time each day. (once every 24 hours)
  • DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
  • Try not to miss giving any doses.
  • NEVER give this medication or any other NSAIDs if your pet is receiving steroid medication.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

  • Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
  • Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
  • Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

  • This medication is generally well tolerated in dogs. The most common side effects noted include vomiting and diarrhea or soft stools. Other side effects may include loss of appetite, dark stools, depression and changes in drinking and urination.
  • Notify your veterinarian immediately if any side effects develop and stop giving the medication.
  • Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

  • Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
  • Quite often, your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
  • The following drugs can potentially interact with meloxicam: oral anticoagulants, heparin, other anti-inflammatory agents, salicylates, corticosteroids, and ACE inhibitors.
  • Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Jul 28, 2016.