Canine Rimadyl Side Effects

Rimadyl is a canine drug that helps alleviate pain caused either by osteoarthritis or post-surgical trauma. Osteoarthritis is typically described as pain in the joints caused by wear on the cartilage and can be diagnosed through observing changes in your dog's behavior such as limping, stiffness in its motion, or a sudden decrease in physical activity. Like any drug, Rimadyl also comes with a variety of potential side effects.

  1. Appetite

    • Your dog may experience a sudden decrease or increase in appetite. Make sure you monitor how much food he or she consumes, as a decrease in appetite could point to a Rimadyl-related stomach problem.

    Vomiting and Diarrhea

    • Rimadyl could potentially cause both vomiting and diarrhea, which in turn could lead to dehydration, so make sure your dog has plenty of water if this ever occurs. Rimadyl may also cause black or bloody stools, in which case a veterinarian should be consulted immediately.

    Behavioral Changes

    • Your dog may experience several behavioral changes over the course of his or her treatment with Rimadyl. These include increased aggression, poor coordination, lethargy, changes in drinking and/or urination frequency, and in rare cases seizures and even death.

    Physical Changes

    • Rimadyl may cause a yellowing of the gums, skin, or eye whites. It may also cause redness in the skin, leading to scratching and scabs.