NSAIDs for Dogs & Cats in 2025 🐾

When your pet is in pain, it's natural to want to help. But giving the wrong pain reliever can be deadly. I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, and in this 2025 guide I’ll explain how to use NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) safely in dogs and cats, which options are FDA-approved, and why human medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen should never be given to pets. 💊🐾

🧬 How NSAIDs Work

NSAIDs reduce pain and inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes that trigger production of prostaglandins—molecules that cause swelling, pain, and heat after injury.

• 🛑 Blocking prostaglandins reduces pain—but also removes some of their protective effects
• ⚠️ This is why NSAIDs must be used carefully, especially in pets with kidney, liver, or GI issues

✅ FDA-Approved NSAIDs for Dogs

These NSAIDs have been tested and approved for safety and effectiveness in dogs:

• Carprofen – Rimadyl®, Vetprofen®, Novox®, Quellin®, Carprieve®
• Deracoxib – Deramaxx®, Doxidyl®*
• Firocoxib – Previcox®
• Meloxicam – Metacam®, Meloxidyl®, Loxicom®, Orocam®
• Robenacoxib – Onsior® (short-term use only)
• Grapiprant – Galliprant® (for arthritis)

🧪 What About Cats?

Cats are more sensitive to NSAIDs and have fewer approved options:

• Meloxicam – injectable, single-use only (after surgery)
• Robenacoxib (Onsior®) – up to 3 days of use, for surgical pain
• ❌ No NSAIDs are FDA-approved for long-term use in cats

🚫 Human Medications Are NOT Safe for Pets

Common human NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen can be toxic to pets:

• Aspirin: Can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, or kidney damage
• Ibuprofen (Advil®): Causes GI ulcers and kidney failure
• Naproxen (Aleve®): Has a long half-life in dogs—high overdose risk
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol®): Can cause liver failure in dogs and is FATAL in cats

⚠️ Side Effects of NSAIDs in Pets

Watch for these common side effects:

• 🤮 Vomiting
• 💩 Diarrhea or black, tarry stool
• 😴 Lethargy or behavior changes
• 🍽️ Appetite loss
• 🟡 Yellowing of the eyes or gums (liver problems)

🧫 Serious Risks Include:

• 🩸 GI ulceration or perforation
• 🧬 Kidney failure (especially with dehydration or surgery)
• 🧪 Liver failure—can occur even with proper dosing

💡 Tips to Use NSAIDs Safely

• 🔍 Get baseline bloodwork before starting
• 🩺 Recheck liver and kidney function every 6–12 months
• 📋 Always give with food unless directed otherwise
• 🚫 NEVER give two NSAIDs or an NSAID with steroids
• ⚠️ Monitor for side effects and report concerns immediately

🧾 NSAID Prescriptions Come with Info Sheets

Each time your dog or cat is prescribed an NSAID, your vet should give you a Client Information Sheet. This includes:

• 📘 What the drug treats
• 🧪 Possible side effects
• 📞 Drug company contact info
• 📋 Instructions on when to stop and call your vet

📲 What to Do If Your Pet Is in Pain

Talk to your vet first. They can determine the safest treatment based on your pet’s age, weight, labwork, and other health conditions. Never try to self-medicate your dog or cat.

✅ Summary

• ✔️ NSAIDs are effective for pain relief in dogs, short-term post-surgical use in cats
• ❌ Human medications are dangerous for pets
• ⚠️ Monitor for vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, appetite changes
• 📞 Report side effects to your vet immediately
• 🧪 Ask about blood testing for long-term NSAID use

Be like Tinker Bell’s owner—call your vet before reaching for your medicine cabinet 💛

— Dr Duncan Houston BVSc