Please note: This calculator is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice and must not be relied upon as the sole basis for medical decisions. Always consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Calculator Inputs

• Body Weight: Enter your dog’s weight.
• Unit: Select the unit of measurement — kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).

Calculator Outputs

• Total Dose (mg): The total amount of meloxicam to be administered.
• Oral Suspension (1.5 mg/mL): Dosage in milliliters for standard liquid formulation.
• Tablet Equivalent: Estimated number of 1 mg tablets needed (rounded to nearest practical amount).

Dosage Calculation

Metacam (meloxicam) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to manage pain and inflammation in dogs. The dosing regimen typically follows this pattern:

• Initial dose: 0.2 mg per kg of body weight (single dose only).
• Maintenance dose: 0.1 mg per kg of body weight once daily.

For example, a 20 kg dog on a maintenance dose would require 2 mg of meloxicam per day. This corresponds to approximately 1.33 mL of oral suspension (1.5 mg/mL), or 2 x 1 mg tablets (rounded).

Indications

Metacam is prescribed to treat:

• Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
• Post-operative pain and inflammation
• Soft tissue injuries and musculoskeletal disorders

Adverse Effects

While generally well-tolerated, meloxicam may cause:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or behavioral changes
• Gastrointestinal ulceration in rare cases
• Kidney or liver function changes with long-term use

Use with Caution

Meloxicam should be used cautiously or avoided in the following cases:

• Dogs under 6 weeks of age
• Pregnant or lactating females (unless directed by a vet)
• Dogs with known kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal disorders
• Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids

When to Contact a Veterinarian

You should consult your veterinarian if:

• Your dog shows any signs of adverse reactions
• You miss a dose or suspect an overdose
• You are uncertain about dosing or administration
• Your dog has existing health issues that could affect drug metabolism

Always follow your veterinarian’s dosage instructions, and do not adjust the dosage without professional guidance. Accurate dosing is essential to avoid side effects or under-treatment.