What anti-inflammatory can you give your dog?

General information on pain medications

There are several types of drugs that have analgesic properties. Each of them differs in its composition, spectrum of action, number of side effects, etc.

• Nutraceuticals are drugs that contain natural ingredients: herbs, antioxidants, amino acids, minerals, and therefore have almost no contraindications. They are often used to relieve joint pain.
• NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and pain relievers are considered one of the most effective drugs. But they should be used with caution - they have a lot of side effects, including internal bleeding.
• Steroid medications are used as analgesics and relieve inflammation. However, like NSAIDs, they cannot be used without a doctor’s prescription. They can cause serious health problems for your pet.
• The most powerful are narcotic painkillers and opioids. They are prescribed only in extreme cases (severe forms of joint diseases, malignant tumors, etc.).

  
  Remember that your dog should not be given human medications! You are unlikely to be able to correctly calculate the dosage, and there is also a high risk of getting a lot of side effects. So what painkiller can you give your dog at home? Below is a list and description of recommendations for the use of medications suitable for your pet.

Painkillers in dogs

Analgesics are the most widely used drugs for pain relief. There are many options to choose from and in different forms such as tablets, syrups or injections. Therefore, this is a task that only a veterinarian can perform.

Anti-inflammatory drugs for dogs

In this group we find drugs such as NSAIDs, which means non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as carprofen, which can be used for long-term treatment. This group also includes aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen or meloxicam .

Painkillers for dogs

But there are also painkillers that are not NSAIDs, such as opioid narcotic painkillers and non-NSAIDs, non-opioid painkillers. It should be borne in mind that, like all medications used for pain, in addition to benefits, they also have side effects. That is why it is necessary to always give them, following the recommendations and supervision of a veterinarian. Among these effects are gastrointestinal ulcers, especially when dogs have to take this type of pain pill for a long time. In these cases, they are usually prescribed in combination with gastric mucosal protectors. They also produce other effects such as:

1. vomit;
2. diarrhea;
3. bloody stool;
4. loss of appetite;
5. jaundice or yellowing of mucous membranes;
6. increased water consumption;
7. increased diuresis;
8. rashes.

Thus, if you are wondering what to give your dog for pain, active ingredients such as the aforementioned carprofen are recommended. Likewise, a veterinarian must answer the question “what medicine can be given to a dog for pain.” After examining the animal, it is this professional who will tell us what is best for relieving the dog's pain and how to give it to him, since the method of administration also needs to be considered.

How to understand that pain medication is needed

The most important rule for handling medications for animals is to never decide on your own the issue of their use. The fact is that many drugs intended for people can be real poison for dogs. Moreover, often after their adoption there is not even time left to save the animal.

Painkillers for a dog should be prescribed by a doctor based on the pet’s health condition, the degree of pain and injuries sustained. If you are concerned that your dog is feeling unwell, is not eating or drinking well, is not moving much, is whining or hiding, feel free to contact your veterinarian.

Norocarp - properties and instructions

Norocarp or Carprofen are tablets that are classified as NSAIDs and can quickly relieve inflammation, relieve pain and fever. It is well absorbed in the digestive system and quickly reaches the required concentration in the blood. The analgesic effect when using Norocarp lasts about 12 hours.

Judging by the reviews, Norocarp has proven itself positive in the fight against various diseases in dogs. It is used to treat injuries, including spinal injuries, arthritis, and arthrosis. Norocarp is also used for tendovaginitis, edema, and intervertebral hernia. The drug is often used to relieve pain after surgery.

Instructions for use: Norocarp is given orally for 7 days daily, 2 times 4 mg per 1 kg of pet’s weight. Then the dose is reduced by 2 times. The full course of treatment with Norocarp is determined by a veterinarian.

However, Norocarp, like other NSAIDs, has contraindications. It should not be given to pregnant or lactating bitches, or to animals with stomach or duodenal ulcers. In case of severe renal failure, Norocarp is also prohibited. Give it to puppies and pets suffering from kidney and liver diseases with extreme caution.

Rimadyl - properties and instructions

It has an analgesic effect, relieves inflammation and fever. Prescribed to animals with acute diseases of the musculoskeletal system (arthritis). It is often used in the period after surgery to prevent inflammation and relieve swelling. The daily dose for an adult animal is 40 mg per kilogram of body weight.

The dose is divided into two doses, a week after the start of the course it is halved. Two weeks after the start of the course, the dog must be examined by a doctor. Owners of four-legged animals claim that there are practically no side effects from the drug, but occasionally irritation of the mucous membranes and vomiting may occur. The dog may have an individual intolerance to the main active ingredient.

Do not give the drug to pregnant bitches and puppies. Prescribed with caution if the animal has liver, kidney or heart disease. The cost of a bottle with thirty tablets ranges around 800-900 rubles. Reviews of the drug note that after taking it, the animal may experience diarrhea. In this case, the medicine should be discontinued.

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The drug Rimadyl belongs to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Its properties are pain relief, inflammation and antipyretic effect. The active ingredient in Rimadyl is Carprofen, which is quickly absorbed into the blood from the digestive system.

Rimadyl is prescribed to dogs suffering from inflammation and joint pain. The diseases that cause them can be acute or chronic. Rimadyl is also effective for relieving swelling and pain in the postoperative period.

Rimadyl is used orally as prescribed by a doctor according to the same regimen as Norocarp. Give no more than 4 mg per 1 kg of pet’s weight per day. The daily dose of Rimadyl is divided into two doses. After a week, it is reduced exactly 2 times.

Rimadyl should not be given to puppy dogs and should be used with caution to treat puppies and pets with heart, liver, and kidney diseases. Possible side effects are vomiting and stomach irritation.

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.

Previcox - properties and instructions

Previcox is a mildly toxic NSAID whose active ingredient is firocoxib. The drug acts effectively at the epicenter of the disease without affecting other organs of the dog. Previcox can quickly relieve inflammation, fever, or relieve your dog of pain. The effect after administration is noticeable within 2 hours.

Previcox is a tablet taken orally to treat diseases of the musculoskeletal system. It copes well with diseases of the joints and muscles, and will help your pet endure the postoperative period more easily.

Instructions for use: Previcox is prescribed to dogs once a day, 5 mg per 1 kg of weight. As reviews say, the tablets smell delicious, and the dog eats them herself. If he refuses, Previcox can always be given with food.

Previcox is contraindicated in pregnant and pregnant dogs, puppies under 1.5 months. Medicine is not given to pets with ulcers.

"Meloxicam"

The drug is available in the form of a suspension for oral use. Trade name: Loxicam. It has a pronounced analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effect. Painkillers are prescribed for dogs of all breeds and cats for chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system (arthritis, arthrosis, dislocations, fractures), for damage to soft tissues, and in the postoperative period.

Not for use in pregnant or lactating females, puppies and kittens under six weeks of age, or in cases of dehydration. The drug is given to animals once a day during feeding. On the first day, give 0.2 mg per kilogram of animal weight, on subsequent days - 0.1 mg.

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Sinulox - properties and instructions

Sinulox is a penicillin antibiotic whose active ingredient is amoxicillin. Sinulox is designed to combat various types of bacteria.

Sinulox is used for purulent diseases, bladder diseases and infection of wounds after operations. Effective for joint inflammation, dentistry, pneumonia, enteritis.

Sinulox is a small pink tablet that is given orally to your dog. Pets eat them on their own. Sinulox has a pleasant taste and smell.

Sinulox is given to dogs 12.5 mg per 1 kg of body weight, 2 times a week. In some cases, the dosage is increased as prescribed by the doctor. The course of taking Sinulox can last up to 1 month.

Immunosuppressive drugs, anti-inflammatory and antisecretory therapy for cats and dogs

Immunosuppressive therapy (eg, azathioprine, chlorambucil, cyclosporine)

indicated for animals with severe IBD that does not respond to steroid and diet therapy. It is also indicated for animals with severe forms of the disease that require aggressive therapy at the beginning of treatment. These drugs are used only if the diagnosis is confirmed histologically. Immunosuppressive drugs are more effective than corticosteroids alone and allow the latter to be used in lower doses and for a shorter period of time. However, possible side effects tend to limit their use in animals with severe disease.

Azathioprine (Imuran)

usually prescribed to animals (at a dose of 50 mg/m2 daily or every other day) with severe inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Azathioprine should not be used in cats due to the high risk of myelotoxic effects. The effect of the drug can be expected from 2 to 5 weeks. Side effects may include liver disease, pancreatitis, and bone marrow suppression.

The indications for the use of chlorambucil are the same as for azathioprine. However, there are fewer side effects. The starting dose is 1 mg 2 times a week for cats weighing less than 3.5 kg, and 2 mg 2 times a week for cats weighing more than 3.5 kg.

A positive effect can be expected within 4-5 weeks. If there is a response to the drug, the dose should be gradually reduced over 2-3 months. The animal should be tested for the presence of myelosuppression.

Stronger alkylating agents, such as cyclophosphamide, are rarely used to treat non-neoplastic gastrointestinal diseases. Cyclosporine (Atopica) is a powerful immunosuppressive drug that is used for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease, lymphangiectasia, and perianal fistulas. The dose is 3-5 mg/kg every 12 hours orally, but variable bioavailability requires drug monitoring and subsequent dose adjustment. There are significant differences in the bioavailability of different cyclosporine preparations. With intravenous administration, vomiting often occurs, but then the initial dose must be reduced by 50%. Because of its high cost, it is sometimes prescribed with a low dose of ketoconazole (3 to 5 mg/kg every 12 hours), which inhibits the metabolism of cyclosporine and in turn allows lower doses to be used at less cost to clients.

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Features of the use of certain drugs

Among all the painkillers used in veterinary medicine, there are some positions that are most favored by dog ​​owners. Let's take a closer look at them.

"Meloxicam"

A classic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, actively used for joint and other types of pain. It is a universal remedy, originally intended for use in humans, but over time it has become one of the most popular means of relieving pain in pets.

The medicine is available in tablets, ointments and injections, in dosages of 7.5 and 15 mg. In a veterinary pharmacy you will find it under the name "Loxicam" in the form of a suspension for internal use. Dosed according to the instructions based on the weight of the animal.

Loxicam suspension for dogs

Indications for use:

• fractures, bruises, joint injuries;
• headache;
• inflammation of soft tissues.

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Side effects may include: gastrointestinal bleeding, digestive disorders. Meloxicam is contraindicated in pregnant females and puppies under 1.5 months of age.

A classic pain reliever based on metamizole sodium. Available in the form of tablets and solution for injection. Its potency is inferior to traditional non-steroidal drugs, but can be actively used as an ambulance if the dog has broken a leg or seriously damaged a joint.

Classic pain reliever Baralgin

• bruises, injuries, fractures;
• headache;
• visceral pain (after diagnosis);
• early stage oncology.

It is not advisable for pregnant and lactating females to use it, but it is possible with special prescription from a doctor. Side effects may include bleeding (any location) and digestive disorders.

Most painkillers intended for injection can be administered subcutaneously. For subcutaneous administration, both the area near the knee and the withers can be used. Most owners prefer to give the injection at the withers, because this area is the least painful for the dog. You can read below about how to give an injection at the withers.

Injection in the withers of a dog

You can clearly see this procedure in the video.

What painkillers can be given to a dog is determined by a veterinarian. Steroid medications are prescribed quite rarely, since they are often unnecessary or the side effects are so undesirable that the use of the drug is impossible. These include the following pain relievers for dogs:

• "Amantadine" - helps block pain. For dogs, it is prescribed as a treatment for arthritis, various spinal diseases and cancer. Diarrhea is often observed with its use.
• “Gabapentin.” It is used for pain resulting from damaged nerve endings. Causes drowsiness in the first few days of use, then the dog gets used to this effect. It is usually prescribed as part of a combination of medications.

• Tramadol is a mild pain reliever. This drug is prescribed to older dogs that experience chronic illness due to age.

Corticosteroids as anti-inflammatory drugs and drugs in cats and dogs

Corticosteroids are indicated for animals with chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract

(eg, with moderate to significant inflammatory bowel disease) not responding to a well-chosen elimination diet. In cats, prednisolone appears to be more effective than prednisone. Relatively high doses (ie, prednisolone 2.2 mg/kg/day) are used initially, and then the dose is gradually reduced to the minimally effective dose. Dexamethasone is sometimes more effective in cases where there is no response to prednisolone, but has more side effects. If it is difficult to give the drug orally, you can use methylprednisolone by injection.

Methylprednisolone

more effective than prednisolone, requiring only 80% of the dose of prednisolone. Budesonide is a steroid no more effective than prednisolone, but has fewer systemic effects. The response may be quick or may take several weeks.

Corticosteroids are often useful for treating IBD in cats, but may worsen the disease in some. Iatrogenic Cushing's is more likely to occur in dogs, but can also occur in cats with severe overdose. It is important to have histological evaluation before using high-dose prednisone because some diseases mimic steroid-dependent lymphocytic colitis (eg, histoplasmosis) but are contraindicated for steroid use.

Corticosteroid or 5-aminosalicylic acid enemas are sometimes indicated in animals with severe distal intestinal colitis. The dose is calculated based on the human dose. With these enemas, large doses of an anti-inflammatory drug are applied directly to the affected area, and systemic effects are also minimized. Although they are effective in controlling clinical symptoms, their administration is often unpleasant for both the animal and the owner. Moreover, the active agent may be absorptive if there is significant mucosal inflammation and intestinal permeability is increased (ie, polyuria and polydipsia may occur in an animal receiving a corticosteroid enema). Enemas are used until symptoms resolve or systemic therapy (eg, sulfasalazine, diet) works. The indications for their use are the same as the active substance of these enemas for systemic use.

Dexafort - properties and instructions

Dexafort is no longer a tablet, but an injection suspension. The drug belongs to the glucocorticosteroid group. The active ingredients of Dexafort are phenylpropionate and dexamethasone sodium phosphate. They are absorbed very quickly. Dexafort works within an hour after the injection, the effect lasts up to 100 hours.

Dexafort can not only relieve inflammation, but also reduce the level of sensitivity to allergens. Effective for allergic eczema, dermatitis, swelling after injury, joint diseases, asthma, mastitis.

Dexafort is prescribed to dogs subcutaneously or intramuscularly at a dose of 0.05 ml per kg of body weight once. After 7 days, a second injection is possible. Shake the Dexafort bottle thoroughly before use.

Dexafort should not be prescribed to pets with fungal infections, diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease. Do not inject it for osteoporosis, ulcers, or pregnant dogs.

Action in emergency situations

If local use of analgesics is required, Ledocaine is used. The preferred dosage form is a spray. In an emergency situation (for example, a fracture), when there is not a single veterinary pharmacy nearby, the dog can be given a regular Analgin tablet. The calculation is made based on the ratio of one tablet per twenty kilograms of weight.

Veterinarians prescribe painkillers to dogs to alleviate the animal’s condition, relieve stress on its nervous system and avoid the development of stress due to pain. The dosage of each drug is calculated individually, taking into account the weight of the animal, its age, general condition, as well as the characteristics of clinical symptoms.

It is important to know! Pain is a signal about the development of some pathological process in the body. Suppression of the pain reaction serves only as a symptomatic method of treatment; for the most part, analgesics do not affect the cause of its development.

Based on the degree of locality, analgesics are divided into local and systemic. Local drugs are used directly in the pain area, systemic analgesics have a general effect, suppressing pain throughout the body. Based on the type of action, painkillers are divided into several types. Let's look at each of them.