Veterinary Meloxicam: Dog vs Cat Product Guide
Meloxicam is a veterinary NSAID, but its U.S. labeling differs sharply between dogs and cats. Product selection must therefore start with the species and the exact veterinary prescription rather than with the active ingredient name alone.
Meloxicam for dogs
FDA lists currently marketed meloxicam NSAID products for dogs in oral and injectable forms. These are prescription veterinary products. The veterinarian determines whether an NSAID is appropriate and which product and directions apply to the individual dog.
Meloxicam for cats: a different regulatory context
FDA states that meloxicam is approved for cats as a single subcutaneous injection before surgery to control postoperative pain and inflammation associated with procedures such as spay, neuter and orthopedic surgery. Oral meloxicam products are not FDA-approved for cats in the United States.
FDA also requires a boxed warning because repeated meloxicam use in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death. Additional injectable or oral meloxicam should not be treated as routine labeled cat use.
Product, refill and availability questions
Because brand, generic, dosage form and species labeling matter, the pharmacy should work from the veterinarian's actual prescription. Useful questions include:
- Is the prescription for a dog or a cat?
- What exact dosage form and product did the veterinarian prescribe?
- Is the product currently obtainable?
- What is the current price?
- Does the prescription allow refills?
Do not substitute human-arthritis framing
This page is specifically about veterinary meloxicam and should not be interpreted as a human arthritis product page. Human and veterinary products have different labeling, and veterinary use must remain under the veterinarian's direction.
For related animal-medication information, visit Veterinary Medications & Prescription Compounding. For current prescription and product questions, use the pharmacy consultation page.