⚠️ Prescription Medication - Veterinary Supervision Required
Metacam (meloxicam) is a prescription NSAID that MUST be prescribed and monitored by a licensed veterinarian. This calculator is for educational purposes only. Never administer Metacam without veterinary authorization. Improper use can cause serious kidney damage, gastrointestinal bleeding, or death in cats. Only use under direct veterinary supervision.
Metacam Dosage Calculator for Cats
Calculate Metacam (meloxicam) dosage for cats based on veterinary prescribing guidelines. This calculator uses the standard feline meloxicam dosing protocols for oral suspension (0.5 mg/mL) to help understand proper dosing for pain relief and inflammation control in cats.
Calculate Metacam Dosage
Treatment Type
⚠️ Your veterinarian determines which treatment protocol is appropriate
Cat's Weight
Average cat: 8-12 lbs
Average cat: 3.5-5.5 kg
Metacam Formulation
The 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension is specifically formulated for cats
Veterinary Dosing Formulas
Meloxicam Dose Calculations
1. Maintenance Dose (Standard):
\( \text{Dose (mg)} = \text{Cat Weight (kg)} \times 0.05 \text{ mg/kg} \)
Standard maintenance dosing for chronic pain and inflammation: 0.05 mg per kilogram of body weight.
2. Acute Pain Initial Dose:
\( \text{Initial Dose (mg)} = \text{Cat Weight (kg)} \times 0.2 \text{ mg/kg} \)
First day dose for acute musculoskeletal disorders or post-operative pain: 0.2 mg/kg.
3. Chronic Pain Initial Dose:
\( \text{Initial Dose (mg)} = \text{Cat Weight (kg)} \times 0.1 \text{ mg/kg} \)
First day dose for chronic musculoskeletal disorders (arthritis): 0.1 mg/kg.
4. Volume Calculation:
\( \text{Volume (mL)} = \frac{\text{Dose (mg)}}{0.5 \text{ mg/mL}} \)
For 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension (standard cat formulation).
5. Drop Calculation:
\( \text{Drops} = \text{Dose (mg)} \times 60 \)
Each drop from the Metacam dropper contains approximately 1/60th of 1 mg (0.0167 mg). Alternatively: 3 drops per kg for maintenance (0.05 mg/kg), 6 drops per kg for chronic initial, 12 drops per kg for acute initial.
Metacam Dosage Chart for Cats
⚠️ These are reference dosages only. Your veterinarian may prescribe different amounts based on your cat's condition and response to treatment.
Safety Information & Contraindications
❌ Never Give to:
- Kittens under 6 weeks old
- Pregnant or nursing cats
- Cats with kidney disease
- Cats with liver disease
- Cats with GI ulcers or bleeding
- Dehydrated cats
- Cats on other NSAIDs or steroids
⚠️ Serious Side Effects:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Increased thirst/urination
- Dark or bloody stools
- Yellowing of gums/skin
- Changes in behavior
✓ Monitoring Required:
- Regular kidney function tests
- Liver enzyme monitoring
- Complete blood counts
- Monitor appetite and water intake
- Watch for digestive issues
- Assess pain relief effectiveness
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct Metacam dose for cats?
The standard maintenance dose is 0.05 mg/kg (0.023 mg/lb) of meloxicam once daily. Initial doses may be higher: 0.1 mg/kg for chronic conditions or 0.2 mg/kg for acute pain. For a 5 kg (11 lb) cat, the maintenance dose is 0.25 mg or 0.5 mL of the 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension. However, your veterinarian must prescribe the exact dose based on your cat's condition.
How many drops of Metacam should I give my cat?
The drop count depends on weight and dose type. For maintenance dosing (0.05 mg/kg), give 3 drops per kilogram of body weight. A 5 kg cat receives 15 drops. For chronic initial dose (0.1 mg/kg), give 6 drops per kg. For acute initial dose (0.2 mg/kg), give 12 drops per kg. Use the measuring syringe for cats over 2 kg for more accurate dosing.
Can I give my cat Metacam every day long-term?
Long-term daily use requires careful veterinary supervision. While Metacam can be used for chronic conditions like arthritis, regular monitoring of kidney and liver function is essential. Some vets prescribe alternate-day dosing or reduced frequency (every 2-3 days) for long-term use to minimize risks. Treatment should be discontinued after 14 days if no improvement is seen. Never use long-term without ongoing veterinary oversight.
What happens if I give my cat too much Metacam?
Meloxicam overdose can cause severe kidney damage, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver toxicity, and potentially death. Signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, increased thirst, bloody stools, and abdominal pain. If you suspect overdose, contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Bring the medication bottle with you. Early intervention is critical - kidney damage can occur within hours.
How should I administer Metacam to my cat?
Shake the bottle well before each use. Administer once daily at approximately the same time. You can mix Metacam with food or give it directly into the mouth using the dosing syringe or dropper. If using drops, ensure accurate counting. If using the syringe, align to your cat's weight in kg on the scale. Administer around mealtimes to reduce stomach upset. Never crush tablets - cats should only receive the oral suspension formulation.
Is Metacam safe for cats with kidney disease?
No, Metacam is contraindicated in cats with kidney disease. NSAIDs like meloxicam can worsen kidney function and cause acute kidney injury. Cats with pre-existing kidney disease, dehydration, or reduced kidney function should not receive Metacam. Your veterinarian will perform blood work to check kidney values before prescribing and will monitor throughout treatment. Alternative pain medications should be used for cats with kidney issues.
How to Safely Administer Metacam to Cats
- Get Veterinary Prescription: Metacam is prescription-only. Your vet must examine your cat, run bloodwork, and authorize use.
- Shake Bottle Thoroughly: The oral suspension must be shaken well before each dose to ensure proper concentration.
- Weigh Your Cat Accurately: Dosing is weight-based. Use a pet scale for precision - even small errors can cause under or overdosing.
- Use Correct Dosing Tool: For cats over 2 kg, use the measuring syringe. For smaller cats or precise dosing, count drops carefully (3 drops per kg for maintenance).
- Administer Consistently: Give at the same time each day, preferably with or after food to minimize stomach upset. Once daily dosing at 24-hour intervals.
- Monitor Closely: Watch for side effects, especially in the first few days. Report any vomiting, lethargy, or appetite changes to your vet immediately. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for bloodwork.