Metacam Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Calculate the correct Metacam (meloxicam) dose for your dog based on body weight, suspension concentration, and age group. Returns Day 1 loading dose and ongoing daily maintenance dose in both mg and mL.
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION
Metacam (meloxicam) requires a valid veterinary prescription. This calculator is for educational reference only. Do NOT combine with aspirin, ibuprofen, carprofen, prednisone, or any other NSAID or corticosteroid. Not for dogs under 6 months, pregnant or nursing dogs, or dogs with kidney disease, GI ulcers, or dehydration. Always confirm dosing with your veterinarian.
Metacam (Meloxicam) Dosage Guide for Dogs
Metacam is the brand name for meloxicam, a COX-2 selective NSAID widely prescribed for canine osteoarthritis, post-operative pain, and chronic inflammation. The FDA-approved canine dosing uses a loading dose on day 1 followed by a lower maintenance dose for ongoing therapy. The calculation has two parts and requires careful attention to suspension concentration to avoid dosing errors.
What Is Metacam and How Does It Work?
Meloxicam is a COX-2 selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes, which reduces production of prostaglandins responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever at the site of injury. Because it preferentially targets COX-2 over COX-1, meloxicam tends to cause fewer GI side effects than non-selective NSAIDs like aspirin.
Metacam oral suspension comes in two concentrations: 0.5 mg/mL (typically used for cats and small dogs) and 1.5 mg/mL (typically used for medium and large dogs). The two concentrations look similar on the shelf but differ in strength by 3x. Confusing them is a common, dangerous dosing error.
Standard Metacam Dosing for Dogs
The FDA-approved canine dosing regimen is:
- Day 1 loading dose: 0.2 mg per kg of body weight, given once
- Day 2 onward maintenance: 0.1 mg per kg once daily
- Senior dogs: consider reduced maintenance dose of 0.05-0.07 mg per kg once daily
The loading dose helps reach steady-state plasma concentrations quickly so dogs feel better sooner. After day 1, the lower maintenance dose is enough to maintain therapeutic levels.
Metacam Dose Table by Weight (1.5 mg/mL Suspension)
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Day 1 (mL) | Maintenance (mL/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 4.5 kg | 0.6 mL | 0.3 mL/day |
| 20 lbs | 9.1 kg | 1.2 mL | 0.6 mL/day |
| 30 lbs | 13.6 kg | 1.8 mL | 0.9 mL/day |
| 50 lbs | 22.7 kg | 3 mL | 1.5 mL/day |
| 70 lbs | 31.8 kg | 4.2 mL | 2.1 mL/day |
| 90 lbs | 40.8 kg | 5.4 mL | 2.7 mL/day |
| 110 lbs | 49.9 kg | 6.7 mL | 3.3 mL/day |
| 130 lbs | 59 kg | 7.9 mL | 3.9 mL/day |
For 0.5 mg/mL suspension, multiply mL values by 3. Always use the syringe supplied with the bottle.
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
Metacam is incompatible with several common veterinary medications and contraindicated in certain patient populations.
Do Not Combine With
- Other NSAIDs (carprofen, aspirin, deracoxib, firocoxib, mavacoxib):dramatic increase in GI ulceration and organ toxicity risk
- Corticosteroids (prednisone, dexamethasone): severely increases GI ulcer and perforation risk
- Ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen: toxic to dogs in their own right
Contraindicated In
- Dogs under 6 months of age
- Pregnant or nursing dogs
- Dogs with chronic kidney disease, dehydration, or low blood pressure
- Dogs with active GI ulcers or recent GI bleeding
- Dogs with significant liver disease
- Dogs with known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs
Monitoring Your Dog on Metacam
For ongoing safety, dogs on Metacam (especially long-term) should be monitored with bloodwork and clinical observation.
Recommended Bloodwork Schedule
- Before starting: CBC and chemistry panel (ALT, ALP, BUN, creatinine)
- 2 weeks after starting: Repeat chemistry panel
- Every 6 months thereafter: Chemistry panel for chronic users
- Any concerning sign: Stop drug, recheck, bring dog in
Stop Metacam and Contact Your Vet Immediately If You Observe:
- Vomiting (especially with blood)
- Diarrhea or black tarry stools
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- Jaundice (yellow eyes, skin, or gums)
- Lethargy or unusual weakness
- Increased thirst and urination
- Decreased urination or signs of dehydration
Frequently Asked Questions About Metacam for Dogs
How much Metacam can I give my dog?
The FDA-approved Metacam dose for dogs is 0.2 mg per kg of body weight on day 1 (loading dose), followed by 0.1 mg per kg once daily as maintenance. Senior dogs typically receive a reduced maintenance dose of 0.05-0.07 mg per kg.
Is Metacam the same as meloxicam?
Yes. Metacam is the most common brand name for meloxicam, an FDA-approved NSAID for dogs. Generic meloxicam oral suspension contains the same active ingredient at the same concentrations.
What is the difference between 0.5 mg/mL and 1.5 mg/mL Metacam?
These are two different concentrations of Metacam oral suspension. The 0.5 mg/mL is typically used for small dogs and cats. The 1.5 mg/mL is more common for medium and large dogs. Confusing them leads to 3x overdose or underdose.
Can Metacam be given to a small dog?
Yes, Metacam is suitable for small dogs but the 0.5 mg/mL concentration is recommended for accurate dosing. Small dogs need very small doses, and the dilute concentration gives a measurable volume.
What are the side effects of Metacam in dogs?
Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and lethargy. Serious side effects include GI ulceration, liver toxicity, and kidney injury. Discontinue immediately if any serious sign appears.
Can I give my dog Metacam and Tramadol together?
Yes. Metacam and Tramadol are commonly used together as multimodal pain management. They work through different mechanisms. Always confirm the combination with your veterinarian.
How long can dogs take Metacam?
Metacam can be used long-term for chronic osteoarthritis when monitored properly. Baseline bloodwork before starting, recheck at 2 weeks, then every 6 months for chronic therapy. Use the lowest effective dose.
Can puppies take Metacam?
No. Metacam is not approved for dogs under 6 months of age. NSAIDs can affect kidney development and carry higher GI risk in puppies. Talk to your veterinarian about alternatives.
What should I do if my dog gets too much Metacam?
Contact your veterinarian or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately. Overdose can cause severe GI ulceration, acute kidney injury, and liver toxicity. Bring the bottle to confirm concentration and amount.
Can Metacam be given to dogs with kidney disease?
Generally no. NSAIDs including Metacam can worsen pre-existing kidney disease and are contraindicated in dogs with CKD, dehydration, or low blood pressure. Discuss alternatives with your veterinarian.
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Assess your dog's hip dysplasia risk; Metacam is commonly prescribed long-term for affected dogs.
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Score your dog's pain level objectively before and after starting Metacam to track response to therapy.
A Note on Safe NSAID Use
Metacam is a highly effective and well-tolerated medication when prescribed correctly, dosed accurately, and used under veterinary monitoring. The most common errors are using the wrong suspension concentration, combining it with another NSAID or steroid, and missing follow-up bloodwork. This calculator provides educational reference only and does not replace your veterinarian's judgment.