Meloxicam Side Effects in Dogs

Meloxicam is an anti-inflammatory drug, similar to Ibuprofen and Advil, that is often prescribed for dogs. Meloxicam is safer than those drugs; however, it can still cause certain side effects.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • The most common side effects of Meloxicam are nausea, appetite loss, diarrhea and vomiting, according to Marvistavet.com. If a dog exhibits any of these symptoms, the dog owner should stop administering medication.

    Kidney Function

    • If a dog has borderline kidney function, Meloxicam can cause reduced blood flow to the kidneys. Dogs with this pre-existing condition should not be given Meloxicam.

    Hepatopathy Reaction

    • Meloxicam can cause a hepatopathy reaction, which is a liver disease. Symptoms of this include the common side effects of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and appetite loss, but also "marked elevations in the liver enzymes measured in the blood," according to Marvistavet.com.

    Allergic Reaction

    • Meloxicam can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Symptoms of this reaction can include "facial swelling, hives and rash," according to 1800petmeds.com.

    Special Precautions

    • Meloxicam should not be given to dogs that have bleeding problems, ulcers, or inflammatory bowel disease, according to pet-supplies-review.com. This drug should also not be given in conjunction with nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).