2025 Vet Guide: NSAIDs for Dogs – What You Need to Know 💊🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are widely prescribed for dogs to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and ease fever. While effective for conditions like osteoarthritis and post-operative pain, safe use and monitoring are key to avoiding adverse effects. This guide provides clarity and guidance. 🩺

🔍 1. How NSAIDs Work

NSAIDs reduce pain and inflammation by blocking COX enzymes, which lower prostaglandin production. However, prostaglandins also protect the GI lining and kidneys, so NSAIDs must be used carefully.

⚕️ 2. Common Veterinary NSAIDs

• Carprofen (e.g., Rimadyl®): COX‑2 selective; used for arthritis and surgery pain. Start working in 1–2 hours. GI and liver monitoring required.
• Meloxicam (Metacam®): Provides anti-inflammatory relief; may cause GI irritation and renal issues with long-term use.
• Deracoxib (Deramaxx®): COX‑2 inhibitor used for arthritis and post-op pain. May cause vomiting, lethargy, ulcers, and organ damage.

⚠️ 3. Risks & Side Effects

NSAIDs can affect the gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal, and hematologic systems:

• GI upset: vomiting, diarrhea, black/tarry stool, ulcers, perforation.
• Kidney damage: especially in dehydrated dogs or those with low blood pressure.
• Liver toxicity: dose-dependent or idiosyncratic reactions, especially within the first 3 weeks.
• Hematologic: rare issues like bleeding disorders or hypersensitivity.

🩺 4. Safe Use & Monitoring

• Use approved veterinary NSAIDs only; never give human NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen).
• Baseline bloodwork (kidney, liver) before starting, then recheck every 3–6 months.
• Administer with food to reduce GI irritation.
• Avoid combining NSAIDs with steroids or other NSAIDs—dangerous overlaps.
• Watch for side effects: appetite change, vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, lethargy, jaundice, blood in stool/urine.

✅ 5. Creating a Multimodal Strategy

• Combine medications (NSAID + gabapentin or tramadol) under veterinary supervision.
• Support with weight management, physiotherapy, joint supplements, and low-impact exercise.
• Regularly review treatment effectiveness and adjust based on symptom tracking.

📱 6. Using Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz

• Ask A Vet: Vet-guided starting protocols, dose checks, and side-effect evaluations.
• Woopf: Schedule reminders for dosing, labs, and follow-ups.
• Purrz: Track pain levels, activity, appetite, and GI changes to refine treatment.

📚 FAQ

Q: Is it okay to give my dog ibuprofen?

No—it’s unsafe and can lead to severe organ damage. Only use veterinarian-prescribed canine NSAIDs.

Q: How often should I do bloodwork?

Every 3–6 months during long-term NSAID use helps detect issues early and ensure ongoing safety.

Q: Can I combine NSAIDs with steroids?

No—never combine NSAIDs with corticosteroids or another NSAID due to high risk of serious side effects.

👤 Owner Insight

“Our older lab needed NSAIDs for arthritis. With regular blood tests and adding gabapentin, we kept him active and comfortable.”

🏁 Final Thoughts from Dr Houston

NSAIDs are powerful tools for canine pain relief—but must be used carefully. Start with veterinary supervision, prioritize monitoring, and build a multimodal care plan that combines medications, nutrition, activity, and regular vet tools. With Ask A Vet, Woopf, and Purrz, you’re supported to manage your dog’s comfort safely into 2025 and beyond. 💙🐾

Download the Ask A Vet app for expert NSAID guidance, side-effect tracking, and care planning. 📱

AskAVet.com – Keeping pain at bay, safely and soundly.