Types of pain medications
Every owner is a bit of a veterinarian: he knows when and what medicines can be given to the dog. After all, feeding a dog with cancer analgesics is useless, and feeding strong painkillers for a bruise is inappropriate.
This guide to the types of painkillers will help you navigate and choose the right type of medication:
- Nutraceuticals. Medicines made from natural ingredients contain herbal extracts, acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Used for diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The largest group. Optimal according to the criteria result/price/side effects.
- Steroid drugs. They relieve painful symptoms and normalize physiological processes; they are indicated for inflammation. But they cause strong adverse reactions; medications are used rarely and under the supervision of a veterinarian.
- Opioid and narcotic medications. Prescribed for severe pain caused by cancer. The drugs have an analgesic and sedative effect, they cause euphoria and addiction.
Specialized veterinary drugs and medicines for people that can be used for animals are considered separately. In the second case, proceed with caution: most of the “human” products are dangerous for dogs. And the dosage of relatively safe ones differs from the prescriptions for humans.
Give your pet veterinary medications whenever possible. But in small towns they are difficult to find. And in emergency cases, it is faster to get to a regular pharmacy than to a veterinarian. Therefore, in the review I also indicated “human” medications that are suitable for pets.
Which painkillers can a dog use and which ones can’t?
It is enough for loving owners to have several analogues of drugs to eliminate pain in their home medicine cabinet. Know exactly which painkillers are suitable for your pet from human medications. And all this knowledge will help you not to wonder what kind of painkiller you can give your dog.
Drugs for pain relief in dogs
What can you give your pet from available medicines to make it feel better?
- Ketonal. For example, an inexpensive and effective pain reliever is ketonal or ketoprofen. This medicine has a convenient way of dosing the medicine. Ketonal can be purchased in the form of tablets or injections. Medicines should be given within the period prescribed by the veterinarian for up to one week.
- Vedaprofen (quadrisol) is a gel pain reliever that is used for problems with the musculoskeletal system. The drug is highly effective and can be used for a month, but has the disadvantage of being overpriced.
- Baralgin. One of the most common painkillers is baralgin. Very often, owners are interested in whether their dog can be given baralgin for excruciating pain. This product is not prohibited for use on pets, so it can be given to your pet without fear. But unfortunately, the drug does not have a long-lasting effect, which is its disadvantage.
- Analgin. Sometimes dogs are given pain relief in analgin tablets. Puppies and small breeds are given a quarter of a tablet 2 times a day. The larger the breed, the larger the dose of medication. The dosage should not exceed two doses during the day.
- Amantadine is given to four-legged pets for pain resulting from herniated discs and in the presence of a tumor. This measure is safe to use, but the animal may experience diarrhea.
- Tramadol - painkillers, like opiates, eliminates areas of discomfort in sarcoma, as it is a synthetic, potent drug. This medicine is used to relieve well-being and pain from suturing after severe operations in our little brothers. This medicine is prohibited in Russia and can only be purchased by specialized veterinary clinics.
- Travmatin is a homeopathic pain reliever that relieves pain in the pet’s bones and joints due to fractures and dislocations. Traumatin can be in injections and gels.
- Pentalnig. Another human painkiller suitable for pets is pentalgin. The shaggy friends can easily eat this drug with food or drink it dissolved in water. Pentalgin has a long-lasting effect and an affordable price.
- Rimadyl is not a steroid, it is used as an anti-inflammatory drug used for arthritis and arthrosis of the joints in older dogs. Its action also reduces aches in the limbs, allowing you to move more actively. Rimadyl is available in ampoules and tablets and acts immediately. Animals like the beef taste of the tablets, so Rimadyl is convenient to use. But ampoules have many contraindications; before use, it is worth clarifying all possible complications.
Use of steroids for dogs
Veterinarians often use steroids as a means of reducing pain symptoms. Steroids do not completely eliminate pain, but they help reduce swelling and inflammation in the animal's body. Examples of steroid drugs: stanozolol, nandrolone. Although they can be given to a dog, it is still necessary to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog a steroid drug. And also you should not combine steroids with other anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as with painkillers.
Popular pain relievers for dogs
Dog owners must be prepared for the fact that their beloved pet may need emergency help at any time, so the veterinary home medicine cabinet should always have the necessary medications at hand: painkillers (analgesics), antipyretics, wound healing, and other symptomatic medications.
Thus, analgesics will help relieve acute pain symptoms from injuries, bruises, diseases of the joints, bones, and damage to internal organs. Painkillers may be prescribed to your pet during the postoperative period. Of course, before giving your dog or cat any medication, be sure to consult with your veterinarian. In each specific case, a special medicine may be prescribed.
Painkillers
Pet owners often use tablets. They are easier to use than injections - no skills in administering injections are required. In addition, there is no risk of injecting the drug incorrectly if the animal breaks out.
The downside of the tablets is that they are bitter. Plus, pets are cunning, spit them out or swallow them not completely.
Analgin
Found in any first aid kit. Analgesic relieves pain and inflammation. But if the symptoms are severe, it will not work. Analgin is used when there is no other medicine at hand and you need to somehow reduce the painful syndrome.
Small breeds are given ½ tablet 1-3 times a day, large breeds - 1 tablet. 2-3 times a day. Dose – 1 capsule per 20 kg, course of treatment – 1-3 days.
Analgin has a bitter taste and provokes salivation. Therefore, the capsule is hidden in a treat.
Analgin costs 15-20 rubles.
Spazgan
Complex medicine. At the same time relieves pain, spasm, relaxes muscles. Plus it reduces inflammation. Spazgan is used for:
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- pathologies of the genitourinary system;
- colic;
- spastic conditions;
- joint pain;
- neurological disorders.
They give ½ tablet. Spazgana 3-4 times a day. Packaging costs 130 rubles.
No-shpa
A popular product based on drotaverine. Helps with spastic conditions, but is inferior to Spazgan in the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.
No-shpa is prescribed for:
- spasm of smooth muscles;
- diseases of the bladder and urinary tract;
- intestinal and gastric pathologies, constipation.
Give at the rate of 1 capsule per 10 kg. No-shpa costs 50 rubles.
Rimadyl R
Veterinary drug. Painkiller tablets are produced with liver flavor - dogs are happy to eat them themselves.
Rimadyl R is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It relieves pain, inflammation, and lowers temperature. These effects are achieved due to the active substance carprofen - it blocks the synthesis of prostaglandins.
Rimadyl R is prescribed for joint diseases, injuries, and in the postoperative period. Dosage: 4 mg per 1 kg per day, divided into two doses. The course of treatment is 7 days, after which the drug is discontinued or reduced by half.
They sell Rimadyl R for 485 rubles.
Onsior
Another medication from the NSAID group. Good for syndromes caused by inflammation and infection. Helps with joint pathologies in the postoperative period.
Onsior for dogs is produced in 4 variations:
- for 2.5-5 kg – 1,000 rubles;
- for 5-12 kg – 1,500 rubles;
- from 20 kg – 2,500 rub.;
If the dog weighs from 40 kg to 80 kg, he is given 2-3 tablets of 20 mg.
Onsior is prohibited if you are dehydrated, exhausted, or weigh less than 2.5 kg. It is not prescribed to pregnant women or puppies under 3 months. The tablets are given whole, before or after feeding.
Ketofen
NSAIDs based on propionic acid. They are produced in 5, 10 or 20 mg of the active substance - ketoprofen. Ketofen costs from 600 to 1,000 rubles. depending on dosage.
Ketoprofen in the composition relieves pain caused by inflammation and infection. Suitable for the treatment of acute and chronic conditions: injuries, arthritis, arthrosis, hernias.
Ketofen is given at the rate of 1 mg of ketoprofen per 1 kg once a day with meals. Duration of treatment is 3-5 days. The medication is contraindicated for ulcers, renal failure, if the dog is given anticoagulants or diuretics.
Cymaljex
Cimalgex is given before and after surgery, for injuries, pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, to relieve inflammation, swelling, heat, and pain.
Available in 2 dosages - 8 mg of cimicoxib per tablet and 80 mg per capsule. It costs 400 rubles accordingly. and 1,200 rub.
Dosage: 2 mg of cimicoxib per 1 kg once a day. The course of treatment in the postoperative period is 3-7 days, for diseases of bones and joints - 3-6 months.
Cimalgex is a low-risk drug. But sometimes it causes digestive disorders and allergies: they go away on their own after stopping the medication. Prohibited:
- cubs up to 2.5 months;
- pets weighing less than 2 kg;
- pregnant dogs;
- dogs with blood, kidney, and liver diseases.
Carprodil F
Prescribed to relieve symptoms of chronic and acute diseases of the joints, ligaments, and skeleton. Also used after operations. Carprodil relieves swelling, lowers body temperature, and reduces tissue hyperemia.
Carprodil is given along with food at a dose of 2-4 mg per 1 kg daily in one or two doses. After a week, the dose is reduced twice.
Cost – 300 rub.
Previcox
Indicated for osteoarthritis, after operations on joints, soft tissues, and dental interventions. Previcox is based on firocoxib. Unlike other NSAIDs, the substance inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins at the site of inflammation, without affecting the prostaglandins responsible for blood circulation in the kidneys and the integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosa.
Previcox is given at 5 mg per 1 kg. Tablets with smoked meat flavoring, so dogs eat them willingly.
Previcox costs 2,000 rubles. per package of 30 tablets. at a dosage of 57 mg.
Read a detailed review of Previcox for dogs.
What painkillers can be given to dogs?
Probably everyone who has encountered the problem of pain in dogs has asked the question: “What drugs can relieve pain from a dog’s injury at home?” If in your locality it is not possible to purchase an analgesic specialized for dogs, use drugs that can be bought at any pharmacy.
These drugs include:
- Pentalgin . The dosage of Pentalgin is calculated at the rate of half a tablet per 20 kilograms of dog weight. Dogs readily eat the tablet along with food. Or you can dissolve the tablet in water and give it to your dog.
- Ketanov . Ketanov injection must be done intramuscularly. One ampoule of the drug is required per 45 kilograms of animal weight. The effect of the drug will begin after half an hour. Be extremely careful with the dosage, because Ketanov is a potent analgesic, and if overdosed, the drug can negatively affect the animal’s gastrointestinal tract.
Baralgin is administered to dogs intramuscularly.
- Baralgin . Baralgin, like Ketanov, is an intramuscular analgesic. For 40 kilograms of mass it is worth injecting three cubes.
- Lidocaine spray . Lidocaine spray is usually used for local anesthesia. It is excellent for oral anesthesia in animals.
- Analgin . If you do not have another drug available, you can use analgin at the rate of 1 tablet per 20 kilograms of animal weight.
Remember that pain pills for dogs do not cure the cause of the pain. For your pet to fully recover, you need to go to a veterinary clinic, telling the doctor what medications you gave your dog and what reaction it had. This information will help in the future to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
Degenerative lesions of intervertebral discs
The spinal cord is one of the most important and sensitive organs in the animal's body. If its tissues are damaged, the defects are not restored, but are only replaced by fibrous connective tissue.
To protect against damage, the spinal cord is located in the spinal canal and is covered by bone everywhere, except at the joints of individual vertebrae. These joints are filled with rubbery pads called intervertebral discs. This design allows the back to move in almost all directions.
Degenerative disease causes the outer part of the disc to weaken, causing the lining to rupture and form a herniation. It is generally accepted that injuries lead to this, but this is not entirely true: indeed, strong mechanical impacts can contribute to the occurrence of a hernia, but they act as a “trigger” and are not the direct cause.
Today, experts believe that this disease is genetically determined. Certain breeds, especially Dachshunds, Poodles, Pekingese, Lhasa Apso, German Shepherds, Doberman Pins and Cocker Spaniels, have the highest chance of developing a herniated disc. What are the symptoms and diagnosis for this pathology? It all depends on the current stage of the disease:
- The first stage is characterized by sharp, but quickly and spontaneously passing pain.
- At the second stage, pain, even if not too severe, constantly manifests itself upon palpation of the lumbar region.
- At the third stage, partial paralysis (paresis) occurs. In milder cases (which is much less common), the dog experiences difficulty coordinating movements.
- At the fourth stage, complete or partial paralysis develops in 100% of cases, but the sensitivity of the skin is still fully preserved.
- The fifth stage is characterized by both paralysis and complete loss of sensation.
Please note that in some dogs the boundaries between stages are very blurred, and they can transition into each other very quickly (and in the opposite direction, although this happens less often). Dogs in the second and third stages of the disease are usually treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, and are given absolute rest.
At the fourth stage, the issue of surgery is not even discussed - if it is not done, the dog with a probability of about 96% will turn into a “vegetable”.
At the fifth stage, the operation must be done immediately, only in this case there is at least some chance of restoring motor activity and tactile sensitivity. Ideally, the animal should be operated on no later than 24 hours after the onset of paralysis.
General information about the drug
Ketanov has a pronounced analgesic (analgesic) effect, as well as anti-inflammatory and moderate antipyretic.
The drug does not affect the respiratory center, the heart muscle, does not affect psychomotor functions, and is not addictive, unlike narcotic analgesics. Moreover, its potency is equal to that of morphine, and therefore significantly exceeds other NSAIDs. It is quickly absorbed into the blood, but eating fatty foods slows down absorption somewhat.
Injections
Injections are the best option for pain relief. They do not affect the gastrointestinal tract, and the effect is achieved in a short time. In addition, the owner is sure that all the medicine was injected during the injection - unlike tablets, solutions cannot be spat out.
The downside is that you need to know how to give injections. And sometimes animals struggle so much that it is impossible to administer the solution.
Ketonal
The best medicine for people that can be used by animals. Ketonal relieves severe pain, it has few side effects - sometimes vomiting and diarrhea are observed. In addition, it is inexpensive - 200-300 rubles.
Ketonal is administered at the rate of 1 mg per 1 kg, for puppies at 1-2 months - 0.1 mg per 1 kg. In case of painful shock, the dose of the first injection is doubled. Use the product for up to 10 days.
Ketonal is prohibited:
- cubs up to a month old;
- pregnant women – there is a high risk of miscarriage and intrauterine development disorders;
- in combination with corticosteroid drugs.
Ketanov
An analogue of Ketonal, produced by an Indian company. It is not inferior in effectiveness, but often leads to negative consequences. But it’s cheaper - they sell for 100-120 rubles.
Ketanov is administered intramuscularly for no more than 4 days in a row. Dosage – 0.4 ml per 10 kg. The drug is used in combination with analgin, diphenhydramine and ranitidine in the postoperative period.
Ainil
A specialized veterinary injection based on ketoprofen – 1 ml contains 10 mg of active ingredient. Ainil has an analgesic effect, reduces fever and relieves inflammation. Additionally prevents thrombus formation. Costs 1,600 rubles.
Ainil is administered intravenously, intramuscularly or subcutaneously at the rate of 0.2 ml per 1 kg. Duration of treatment – up to 3 days.
Ainil is not used in dogs with liver, kidney, or ulcer diseases. Observe the dosage - excess has a negative effect on the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum.
Flexoprofen
Another medicine for animals based on ketoprofen. It also effectively relieves pain in acute and chronic conditions. But it costs less than Ainil - from 500 rubles.
In addition to relieving pain symptoms, Flexoprofen is used for body overheating, fever, and febrile conditions.
Flexoprofen is administered subcutaneously, into a vein or muscle at the rate of 2 mg of ketoprofen per 1 kg once a day. Course – 1-5 days. Cannot be combined with diuretics, glucocorticoids, anticoagulants, and other NSAIDs.
Baralgin
Cheap “human” medicine – sold for 200 rubles. It is used for dogs, but only once and in the dosage prescribed by the veterinarian. Otherwise, hematopoietic disorders may occur.
Baralgin is used when there are no veterinary analgesics, and the pain needs to be relieved urgently. Indications:
- injuries;
- pain shock;
- postoperative period;
- infections accompanied by fever and pain.
The maximum dosage is 1 cube of solution per 10 kg. It is advisable to administer less - 0.08 ml per kg.
Meloxicam
Another medicine for humans that is used as a replacement for veterinary drugs. It is prescribed for:
- fractures;
- dislocations and bruises;
- arthrosis and arthritis;
- after operations.
Meloxicam is prohibited for dogs with heart, kidney and liver failure. The drug rarely leads to side effects, mainly in case of overdose. Possible complications include gastrointestinal upset, apathy, and refusal to eat.
Meloxicam is administered intravenously (0.13 mg per kg on the first day, 0.7 mg per kg on subsequent days) or subcutaneously (0.2 mg per kg). Course duration – 3 days.
One ampoule of Meloxicam costs 50 rubles.
Fluniject
NSAIDs for animals. Prescribed for:
- temperature and overheating (hyperthermia);
- respiratory pathologies;
- inflammatory eye diseases;
- infectious processes;
- gynecological diseases.
Fluniject is administered intravenously or intramuscularly at the rate of 0.2 ml per 10 kg once a day. Course – 1-3 days.
They sell Fluniject for 740 rubles. per package.
Dexafort
Hormonal agent based on phenylpropionate and sodium phosphate. Mainly prescribed for autoimmune and allergic diseases. But it also helps with severe sensations that appear due to post-traumatic edema, arthritis, and arthrosis.
Dexafort is administered once, 0.5-1 ml. If necessary, give a second injection after a week.
Dexafort is not prescribed shortly before or immediately after vaccination. It is prohibited when:
- pregnancy;
- viral and fungal invasions;
- diabetes;
- renal and heart failure.
Cost – 900-1,000 rubles.
Review of medicines
Effective veterinary drugs for dogs:
- Rimadyl. A powerful non-steroidal agent. Complex effects: pain relief, suppression of inflammation, relief of fever, elimination of swelling after surgery. Active substance concentration: 20, 50 and 100 mg. The number of tablets per package is 30 pieces. A dog is allowed to take no more than 4 mg of carprofen (the active ingredient of NSAIDs) per 1 kg of weight. The daily norm is divided into 2 doses, after 14 days it is reduced by 2 times. It is important to consider contraindications. During treatment, nausea, vomiting, and irritation of the digestive tract are possible.
- Norocarp (also known as Carprofen) is an effective veterinary drug. Tablets of the NSAID group are used for various types of inflammation and pain, including damage to the joints and spine. NSAIDs are given to the dog only after meals to reduce the negative impact on the digestive tract. If diarrhea develops, stop taking the tablets and show the animal to a veterinarian. Rapid absorption into the blood, the effect lasts up to 12 hours. The dosage is the same as for the drug Rimadmil, but the daily dose is reduced twice as early: after a week. There are contraindications and side effects.
- Dexafort. The steroid drug suppresses the inflammatory process, reduces heat and pain in the affected area. Injections are prescribed for joint damage (swelling) in the postoperative period. The drug effectively eliminates severe allergic manifestations. Active components: dexamethasone sodium phosphate and phenylpropionate. The injection suspension is absorbed quickly, and a decrease in discomfort in the animal is noted within an hour. The drug Dexafort has a prolonged effect - up to four days. The glucocorticosteroid is used carefully, with strict adherence to the dosage: 0.05 mg of active ingredients is administered per 1 kg of dog weight. The best option is a one-time injection, a second injection is possible after a week. Be sure to shake the bottle before administering the suspension. Pregnant bitches with damage to the heart, kidneys, liver, or fungal diseases are not prescribed Dexafort.
For local anesthesia, Lidocaine gel or Lidocaine spray is used as prescribed by a veterinarian. The drugs Travmatin and Ketanov have a good effect: powerful painkillers are indispensable for bone fractures and spinal injuries.
The dosage of medications is an important nuance. Taking into account the weight of the pet is necessary to receive the optimal amount of the active substance. It is strictly forbidden to increase the rate of analgesics without the permission of a veterinarian. It must be remembered: many types of powerful analgesics not only relieve pain, but also eliminate inflammation, which provokes the development of discomfort. The doctor prescribes medications, after the use of which the cause of the pain syndrome disappears, analgesics are an auxiliary component of therapy. In case of severe chronic joint damage and malignant tumor process, painkillers and injections are as necessary as cytostatics or drugs to reduce rheumatic manifestations.
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Symptoms of pain in dogs and how to recognize them in time
Animals of the canine family, just like humans, are capable of experiencing types of pain that differ in symptoms.
Visceral pain, symptoms:
- attacks of panic and anxiety;
- the animal may bite its stomach;
- an unnatural body position appears, coordination is impaired;
- the animal's appetite decreases or disappears completely;
The presence of foci of pain in the chest area:
- cautious movements, uncertainty while moving;
- reluctance to take a lying position;
- presence of shallow breathing.
Somatic pain
Damage to the upper layers of skin, nerve fibers, as well as injuries to bones and muscle tissue have consequences in the form of somatic pain. Such painful sensations are accompanied by aggression, avoidance during touching and fear. The presence of inflammatory processes in the spine, spinal cord and joints leads to the following symptoms:
- lack of mobility in the dog;
- presence of lameness;
- the dog whines;
- The pet does not allow you to touch the source of discomfort and shows aggressiveness.
Headache
Four-legged pets are also subject to headaches due to increased blood pressure, as well as pain in the digestive tract due to poisoning. If your dog has a fever, find out more about what you can do at home.
For oncology
It is logical to assume that for cancer, an opioid or narcotic pain reliever will be prescribed for the dog. But it's not that simple.
There are no such medications in veterinary pharmaceuticals. Therefore, medications are indicated for humans. But even for a person it is difficult to obtain them: each ampoule is accountable, the received, issued, and consumed vials are recorded.
You can get your pet out of drugs when you have:
- conclusion of the attending physician and veterinary commission;
- oncologist's permission;
- recipe.
But opioids are usually impossible to obtain. Therefore, dogs with oncology are injected with potent drugs from other groups: Ketonal, Ketanov, Ketarol, Travmadol, Promedol. However, they are also prescribed by prescription.
Alternative options
In addition to the medications described above, the veterinarian may also prescribe other painkillers - Amantadine, Tramadol, Hebapentin.
Amantadine is a steroid medication that helps relieve your pet of severe pain in a short time. It is used for oncology, pathologies of the skeletal system, arthrosis. Often causes side effects in the form of stool upset.
Tramadol - effectively relieves discomfort in a sick animal, is widely used to treat dogs in a veterinary clinic.
Hebapentin has a pronounced sedative effect, therefore, in addition to eliminating pain, it causes lethargy and drowsiness in the animal. It is important to remember that all steroid drugs belong to the group of hormones, therefore their independent use in the treatment of pets is strictly prohibited.
In some cases, it is allowed to take Pentalgin tablets, Ketanov, Travmatin, Lidocaine injections.
Other effective drugs
What medicine is most often found at home? Of course, . Acetylsalicylic acid, which is the basis of this drug, acts like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory compounds. Giving aspirin to dogs for a long time is dangerous, as the medicine can cause gastrointestinal bleeding. When choosing a drug at a pharmacy, give preference to “combined” tablets containing excipients. They neutralize the corrosive effect of salicylates. Although these painkillers for dogs are available without a prescription and in any quantity, the treatment process must be supervised by a veterinarian.
Since non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs usually do their job well, veterinarians do not often prescribe other drugs. But if the pain is severe, you may need something more serious. Your veterinarian may prescribe something like Amantadine, Gabapentinum or Tramadol, which are also effective in relieving post-mortem pain.
Let's briefly describe their action:
- Amantadine
, which is used to treat Parkinson's disease in humans, helps block pain.
It is prescribed to dogs for severe pain reactions with , and with.
One of the advantages of the drug is its comparative safety. So, in dogs there is most often one side effect - diarrhea. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to effectively anesthetize a dog with cancer; something stronger is needed.
- Gabapentin
is used to treat pain caused by
severe neuralgia and neurological disorders
in humans and dogs.
The pain that accompanies a spinal hernia can also be relieved with this medicine. It should be noted that when taking this medication, the dog may become sleepy and lethargic
, but this quickly passes.
The drug is sometimes prescribed after abdominal surgery
to make the animal calmer and sleep more time.
- Tramadol
is a painkiller created in the “image and likeness” of opiates.
That is, it is a very strong synthetic pain reliever that is effective even with. Veterinarians in the US and Europe often prescribe it to older dogs that are in severe pain.
The medicine is also relatively safe. The most common side effects are dizziness and dizziness.
For joint pain
Any painkiller will help relieve joint pain. But pharmacists produce special medications for the musculoskeletal system. In addition to analgesic substances, the products contain components that stimulate the restoration of joints and ligaments.
Quadrisol
The best remedy for relieving symptoms of arthrosis, dysplasia, arthritis. Quadrisol is packaged in dispenser syringes - one of 15 ml costs 300-400 rubles.
Quadrisol is given forcibly or mixed with wet food. Dosage – 1 ml per 10 kg every day. The course of treatment is 2-4 weeks, after a 7-day break the therapy is repeated as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Norocarp
A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug prescribed for acute and chronic inflammation of joints, ligaments, fractures, and intervertebral hernias.
Norocarp is produced in tablets. The daily norm is 4 mg per 1 kg, divided into 2 doses. The medicine is given for a week; if the dog’s condition improves, the dose is reduced by half. The duration of the course of treatment is determined by the veterinarian.
Norocarp costs 230-500 rubles. depending on the release form - 20, 50 or 100 mg.
Hondartron-gel
Homeopathic medicine for external use. Contains a squeeze of medicinal herbs, bee venom, calcium fluoride and lithium carbonate. Hondatron:
- relieves inflammation, swelling;
- reduces pain symptoms;
- normalizes lymphatic drainage, blood flow and trophism (nutrition) of joints;
- stimulates the restoration of cartilage and joint tissues.
Chondartron is used in combination with other drugs to restore joints. The gel is applied evenly to the affected areas, avoiding damage.
They sell Hondatron-gel for 360 rubles. for a 75 ml bottle, and 1,200 rubles. per 500 ml tube.
Meloxidil
An NSAID that contains the substance meloxicam (analgesic) and additional components for joint restoration - gum, silicon, xylitol, sorbitol.
Meloxidil is produced in two variations of dispensing syringes - for small and large breeds. One division of the small dispenser is designed for 0.5 kg, and the large one is designed for 2.5 kg. Relief occurs on the 3-4th day, the full course is 10 days.
They sell Meloxidil for 850 – 1,300 rubles. depending on the volume of the bottle.
Pentalgin-gel
One of the most popular analgesics that dogs can use. Usually given in tablets (1/2 capsule per 20 kg). But the medicine is also available in gel form. If you don't have it at hand
veterinary ointments for joint pain, use Pentalgin - this is an excellent temporary measure.
Pentalgin-gel contains ketoprofen and auxiliary components: peppermint and pepper extracts, dimexide, camphor. It penetrates the source of inflammation and relieves unpleasant symptoms.
The gel costs 200 rubles.
When is it used?
The medicine is prescribed only in cases where the dog suffers from a pronounced pain reaction. If you strictly follow the dosage, then there are no side effects from its use. But! Baralgin for animals is not intended for long-term use. The fact is that the medicine has a cumulative effect. If the active substance accumulates in sufficient quantities, this is fraught with the development of serious pathologies of the hematopoietic system (up to severe anemia). Thus, the “classical” indications for use are as follows:
- Injuries.
- Postoperative period (after severe surgical interventions).
- Infectious and invasive diseases, accompanied by severe pain and increased body temperature.
Important!
It is strictly forbidden to give Baralgin for dogs to puppies under eight weeks of age.
This is fraught with bad consequences for the liver! If there is a need to treat very young babies, we advise you to first consult with a veterinarian, and not “poke” them with powerful painkillers at your own discretion.
Our reader asks: “Is it possible to give analgin to a dog as a pain reliever?” Let's try to answer this question.
The question of pain relief for dogs with certain diseases, injuries, and in the postoperative period often arises. But very few painkillers have been developed specifically for dogs, so those intended for humans can be used. First of all, these are drugs from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Traditionally, from this group, metamizole is prescribed, one of the registered names of which is analgin. It has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, and relieves fever to a lesser extent. The drug is able to relieve spasms from the smooth muscles of the biliary and urinary tract. Analgin is well absorbed when administered parenterally and enterally, without causing irritation.
Analgin is especially effective for various gastrointestinal diseases with impaired peristalsis and motility, as well as:
- various types of rheumatism,
- neuralgia,
- tendovaginitis, etc.
It is used for acute inflammatory diseases that are accompanied by an increase in temperature (postoperative complications, sepsis, viral infections, etc.), in the presence of pain (myalgia, colic of various etiologies, decompression sickness).
However, it should be remembered that this drug has a number of side effects and complications. Among these actions:
decreased blood clotting (which is dangerous with wounds),
- gastritis,
- renal dysfunction,
- intestinal and stomach bleeding.
Therefore, it should not be given to animals with gastrointestinal disorders, as well as to pregnant and lactating bitches and dogs with individual intolerance. You should also strictly adhere to the dosage and duration of use.
It is best to give your dog analgin as an intramuscular injection.
The dose must be calculated individually, based not only on the weight, but also on the age of the animal, as well as on the severity of the pain syndrome. On average, the calculated dose is 0.1 ml per 1 kg of animal body weight. And the result obtained is given in one injection.
A second injection is given after 10-12 hours. The dosage of analgin in the form of tablets is determined at the rate of one tablet per 20-30 kg of animal weight. It is better not to give it to small breed dogs and puppies at all. The duration of action of one dose should not be less than eight hours.
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To alleviate the condition of dogs, painkillers are used for injuries to the limbs and skeleton, internal organs, and in cases of chronic diseases accompanied by unbearable pain. The best pain reliever for dogs is a special veterinary drug. In some cases, the use of drugs from the list of human medicines is allowed, but this requires calculating the correct dosage.
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conclusions
The best treatment for bruises in dogs is prevention. Small dogs need to be able to jump on the sofa safely and leave it just as safely. Eliminate the possibility that the dog might escape from your hands and jump to the ground.
For large dogs, warming up before taking on high hurdles is important. And in winter, avoid walking on ice.
Remember that any bruises provoke the early development of joint problems in dogs - arthritis and arthrosis.
For the treatment of these diseases, Wellvet recommends effective drugs: Sarapin (USA), Pentosan Equin (Australia), Trocoxil (Italy) and Bonharen (Czech Republic), already mentioned for the treatment of bruises in dogs. Our consultants will help you choose the best product for your pet.
For injuries
Pain from fractures, dislocations, bruises, and cuts is eliminated immediately. If the injuries are serious, they will lead to painful shock. Therefore, they act immediately. In addition to tablets and injections, external agents are used - they work directly at the site of injury.
Lidocaine spray
Dogs often injure their paws while walking, cutting themselves, or bruising them. Therefore, lidocaine in spray form should always be in the first aid kit.
Lidocaine “freezes” the damaged area. It is good for punctures, lacerations and cuts, bruises, dislocations. Spray with 2-3 pumps.
Lidocaine spray costs 250 rubles.
Travmatin
Analgesic based on herbal extracts. The main advantage is that it removes exudate, improves blood microcirculation and regeneration.
Travmatin is prescribed in combination with other analgesics. Used for acute injuries, after childbirth and operations.
A 10 ml bottle sells from 280 rubles.
Trauma gel
Another herbal medicine. In addition to herbal extracts, it contains alcohol, glycerin and ammonia.
Trauma gel is applied for accidental injuries and injuries that occur after surgery. They lubricate their paws before and after walks to protect the skin from road reagents.
A bottle of minimum volume (20 ml) costs 190 rubles.
Diagnostics
The diagnosis is made on the basis of anamnesis, a comprehensive visual examination, the results of rectoscopy, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, diagnostic laparatomy, and tissue biopsy. On palpation, thickening of the intestinal walls is noted. CT and MRI will allow you to determine the presence of metastases. To perform a biopsy and assess the condition of the mucous membranes, gastrointestinal endoscopy is used.
For serological studies, blood is taken for analysis. A decrease in hemoglobin (hypochromic anemia), a decrease in the total amount of protein and red blood cells in the bloodstream, a change in the leukocyte formula (peripheral leukemia), and an increase in the activity of liver enzymes are noted.
With intestinal lymphosarcoma, an increase in the size of the abdominal organs is noted on x-ray.
Causes of the disease
No one yet knows the reliable causes of oncological tumors. It is believed that the following reasons are the factors that “trigger” the process of formation and development of pathological cells:
- Stress.
- Excessive insolation.
- Poor nutrition.
- Poor environmental conditions.
- Toxins that enter the body with water, food, and medications.
- Bad habits.
- Radiation.
- Exposure to heavy metals and much more.
Old and weakened animals are more susceptible to diseases than others, although cancer is not selective and affects both older dogs and young and strong dogs, and even puppies.
Most often, the following forms and types of malignant neoplasms occur in dogs:
- Lymphoma.
- Malignant histiocytoma.
- Angiosarcoma.
- Mammary cancer.
- Mast cell tumor.
- Melanoma.
- Osteosarcoma.
- Prostate cancer.
- Transitional cell carcinoma.
Each type of this disease has its own specifics and requires a special method of treatment, the use of specific medications.
Treatment method and prognosis
Treatment of cancer patients is almost the same for both people and animals. It is always complex and consists of the following stages:
- Surgical removal of the tumor. The neoplasm must be removed with a part of healthy tissue in order to protect against possible penetration of cancer cells into surrounding tissues and spread of the process.
- Irradiation using a special device. This is not possible in all veterinary clinics. The method is not used for all types of cancer tumors and is not applicable for some types of tumor localization.
- Chemotherapy. It involves taking toxic drugs that can kill cancer cells, destroy or reduce tumors and metastases, and also prevent their formation and further spread.
You cannot give your dog medications intended for humans, since, despite the general principles of the effect on tumors, the type of medication, dosage and intensity of treatment can only be selected by a veterinarian. This is because the dose is calculated only for the individual dog, taking into account his weight, age, general health and the presence of additional problems.
If the doctor prescribes painkillers, there is also a danger of overdose. Owners should obtain full advice from a specialist on how they should act in certain situations.
Treatment of any form of cancer is extremely complex, lengthy and expensive. However, there are some types of this terrible disease that are easier to treat than others and can be cured completely or give long-term remission. These include skin cancer in the early stages.
Possible complications
With cancer, the most dangerous complication is metastases, leading to the spread of cancer throughout the dog’s body. This leads to a generalization of the process, which is expressed by increased intoxication.
Bone lesions lead to pathological fractures that do not heal. Problems with the digestive system are extremely exhausting for both the dog and its owners. She literally melts before our eyes, practically dying from exhaustion.
Since cancer is treatable only in the first two stages, in the presence of terminal stages there is no talk of recovery. You can only provide your pet with a calm, painless last days of life, surrounded by loving and caring owners.
Symptoms
Oncological neoplasms are dangerous because in the first stages the disease occurs without pronounced symptoms. But an experienced and attentive owner can note the following deviations in the behavior or appearance of the animal:
- Digestive disorders - vomiting after eating, an unexplained decrease in appetite, strange behavior after eating, allowing one to suspect that the dog is suffering from pain. Constipation and diarrhea may be an indication of the presence of cancer in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Problems with urination and bowel movements may be caused by a tumor of the prostate or rectum.
- Coughing, bleeding from the mouth, the feeling that the dog is choking on food and water most often occur with damage to the lungs and other respiratory organs, cancer of the larynx, tumors of the jaw, tongue, lip, nose.
- Changes in gait, unsteady, uncertain movements, and lameness indicate damage to the skeletal system.
- Growths under and on the skin and changes in pigmentation can be symptoms of various types of cancer, including skin cancer.
- Pain - the dog may suffer greatly from pain in the affected parts of the body, as well as from general intoxication, which is expressed by severe weakness, exhaustion and apathy.
- An unpleasant odor emanating from the animal or from individual areas affected by the tumor. Usually indicates the disintegration of a neoplasm, often accompanies breast cancer, lesions of the mouth, and skin.
In what cases should your pet be given pain medication?
A drug with an analgesic effect is given as prescribed by a veterinarian. Uncontrolled receipt of drugs in this category by a dog can lead to incorrect diagnosis and “blurring” of symptoms.
A medicine with an analgesic effect can be given before visiting a doctor in rare cases, for example, if the animal has a broken leg and is in pain. In other situations, the best solution would be to urgently transport the four-legged pet to a veterinary clinic for diagnosis and selection of a set of medications, including analgesics.
