Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in both humans and animals to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. In dogs, they are commonly prescribed to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. NSAIDs may also be used to manage short-term pain in cats and dogs.
How NSAIDS Work
NSAIDs work by reducing the production of chemicals called prostaglandins which promote pain, inflammation, and fever when an animal is injured.
Dogs are able to metabolize NSAIDs more effectively than cats and usually exhibit fewer side effects. For this reason, NSAIDs can be prescribed for long-term and short-term use in dogs. Some of the most commonly prescribed NSAIDs for dogs include carprofen, firocoxib, deracoxib, meloxicam, and robenacoxib.
Many veterinarians avoid prescribing NSAIDs to treat chronic pain in cats because of the risk of undesirable side effects. Instead, NSAIDs such as robenacoxib are usually prescribed for short-term use to manage acute pain in cats.
Side Effects
Although NSAIDs are usually safe and effective when properly administered, there are several potential side effects to be aware of. The following are some of the most common side effects associated with NSAID use in pets.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Behavioral changes
- Skin irritation
- Decreased activity
In rare cases, NSAIDs have been associated with serious side effects such as gastrointestinal ulcers, liver toxicity, and kidney damage. For this reason, it is important to consult with your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the above signs or symptoms when taking NSAIDs.
Risk Reduction
There are several measures you can take to protect your pet and reduce the risk of side effects from NSAID usage. Never give NSAIDs to your pet without first consulting your veterinarian. Even over-the-counter NSAIDs such as aspirin can be very dangerous to pets if administered incorrectly. Medications designed for humans can be very detrimental to your pet’s health, and should always be avoided.
If your pet has been prescribed NSAIDs, always follow your veterinarian’s treatment advice and never share medications with other pets. Monitor your pet closely during treatment, and contact your veterinarian if you notice any potential side effects.
If your pet has been prescribed NSAIDs for long-term use, ask your veterinarian about screening for risk factors before starting treatment. It’s also important to attend follow up appointments so your pet can be monitored for potential side effects.
