Metacam Dosage Calculator for Cats – Guide & Formulas
Calculate the correct Metacam (meloxicam) dose for your cat by weight. Get safe, vet-recommended NSAID dosage guidelines for feline pain and inflammation.
Calculate the correct Metacam (meloxicam) dose for your cat by weight. Our free NSAID dosage calculator provides safe, vet-recommended guidelines for feline pain and inflammation management.
Key Takeaway
Use the free Metacam Dosage Calculator for Cats to calculate the correct metacam (meloxicam) dose for your cat by weight. get safe, vet-recommended nsaid dosage guidelines for feline pain and inflammation. Get instant results with step-by-step explanations.
How to Use the Metacam Dosage Calculator for Cats
- Enter your cat's weight in pounds or kilograms.
- Select your preferred unit system (Imperial or Metric).
- Review the recommended initial and maintenance dose.
- Check the critical safety warnings and consult your vet.
The Formula
Variable Definitions
- Metacam: Brand name for meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief in cats
- mg/kg: Milligrams of meloxicam per kilogram of body weight
- Loading Dose: The initial higher dose given on day one to achieve therapeutic blood levels quickly
- Maintenance Dose: The lower daily dose given after the initial dose to maintain therapeutic effect
Calculating Metacam Dose for a 10 lb Cat
Find the safe Metacam dose for a 10-pound cat with arthritis.
- Step 1: Convert weight: 10 lbs ÷ 2.2 = 4.5 kg.
- Step 2: Calculate initial (loading) dose: 4.5 kg × 0.05 mg/kg = 0.225 mg.
- Step 3: Calculate maintenance dose (low): 4.5 kg × 0.02 mg/kg = 0.09 mg/day.
- Step 4: Calculate maintenance dose (high): 4.5 kg × 0.03 mg/kg = 0.135 mg/day.
- Step 5: A 10 lb cat receives 0.225 mg initially, then 0.09–0.135 mg daily for ongoing pain management.
Financial Advisory Notice
This Metacam Dosage Calculator provides general guidelines only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Metacam is a prescription medication — always use under veterinary supervision. Improper dosing can cause serious kidney damage or death in cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Metacam should I give my cat?
The initial loading dose is 0.05 mg/kg (0.023 mg/lb) given once on day one. The maintenance dose is 0.02–0.03 mg/kg (0.009–0.014 mg/lb) given once daily. A 10 lb cat typically receives 0.225 mg initially, then 0.09–0.135 mg daily. Always follow your vet's specific prescription.
What is Metacam used for in cats?
Metacam (meloxicam) is an NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis, post-surgical pain, dental procedures, and other painful conditions in cats. It is one of the few NSAIDs considered safe for long-term use in cats when properly dosed.
Can I use dog Metacam for my cat?
NO — never use the 1.5 mg/mL dog formulation for cats. Cats require the 0.5 mg/mL cat-specific formulation. The dog formulation is three times more concentrated and can easily cause fatal overdose. Always use the cat-specific product.
What are the side effects of Metacam in cats?
Common side effects include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Serious side effects (rare) include kidney damage, liver damage, and gastrointestinal ulceration. Cats with kidney disease are at higher risk. Contact your vet if your cat stops eating or shows GI upset.
Is Metacam safe for long-term use in cats?
Metacam can be used long-term in cats with proper veterinary monitoring. Regular kidney and liver function tests (every 6–12 months) are recommended. Cats with pre-existing kidney disease should use Metacam cautiously or avoid it entirely.
How do I give Metacam to my cat?
Metacam comes as an oral suspension with a dropper for precise dosing. Give with food to reduce GI upset. Many cats accept it when mixed with a small amount of wet food. The liquid formulation allows for accurate weight-based dosing.
Can Metacam be given with other cat medications?
Metacam should not be combined with other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or anticoagulants. It may interact with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and nephrotoxic drugs. Always inform your vet of all medications your cat is taking.
What if I miss a dose of Metacam?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is the next day, skip the missed dose and resume the regular once-daily schedule. Do not double dose. Consistent daily dosing is important for pain management.
Can kittens take Metacam?
Metacam is generally not recommended for kittens under 6 months. Kittens have immature kidney function and are more susceptible to NSAID side effects. For post-surgical pain in kittens, your vet may prescribe a single dose of Metacam or alternative pain medication.
How is Metacam different from other cat pain medications?
Metacam is an NSAID (anti-inflammatory), unlike opioids (buprenorphine) or gabapentin (neuropathic pain). It addresses both pain and inflammation, making it ideal for arthritis and post-surgical pain. It is one of the few NSAIDs safe for long-term use in cats.