Last updated: June 23, 2026
Metacam Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Creators
Dharmendra SinghReviewers
Creators
Dharmendra SinghReviewers
Quick Answer
The Metacam Dosage Calculator for Dogs estimates the meloxicam dose for a dog from its body weight and dosing phase using Dose (mg) = weight (kg) × rate (mg/kg), where the rate is 0.2 mg/kg (loading, day 1) or 0.1 mg/kg (maintenance, day 2+). It converts the dose to millilitres of the 1.5 mg/mL dog oral suspension (mL = mg ÷ 1.5). Meloxicam is an FDA-approved canine NSAID, but the tool is educational only and dosing must be confirmed by a veterinarian.
Metacam for dogs is dosed at 0.1 milligrams per kilogram once daily for maintenance, after a day-one loading dose of 0.2 milligrams per kilogram, using the 1.5 milligram per millilitre dog suspension. A 20-kilogram dog needs about 2 milligrams, or 1.33 millilitres, daily. Always confirm with your veterinarian.
Key Takeaways
- FDA canine oral dose: day-1 loading of 0.2 mg/kg, then 0.1 mg/kg once daily maintenance
- The dog suspension is 1.5 mg/mL — volume (mL) = dose (mg) ÷ 1.5
- The dog product (1.5 mg/mL) is 3× stronger than the cat product (0.5 mg/mL)
- A typical 20 kg dog needs ~2 mg (1.33 mL) per day on maintenance
- Meloxicam is an NSAID — educational tool only; always confirm with your vet
Creators
Dharmendra SinghReviewers
Creators
Dharmendra SinghReviewers
Formula
Dose (mg) = Weight (kg) × Rate (mg/kg); Volume (mL) = Dose ÷ 1.5
Where:
- D_{mg}=Meloxicam dose(mg)
- W_{kg}=Dog body weight(kg)
- R=Dose rate (0.2 loading day 1 / 0.1 maintenance)(mg/kg)
- V_{mL}=Volume of 1.5 mg/mL dog oral suspension(mL)
Worked Examples
20 kg Dog — Daily Maintenance
A 20 kg dog on long-term meloxicam for osteoarthritis, day 2 onward.
- 1Rate for maintenance = 0.1 mg/kg
- 2Dose = 20 kg × 0.1 mg/kg = 2.0 mg
- 3Volume = 2.0 mg ÷ 1.5 mg/mL = 1.33 mL of dog suspension
- 4Give once daily with or after food
20 kg Dog — Loading Dose (Day 1)
Starting a 20 kg dog on Metacam for acute post-surgical pain.
- 1Rate for loading = 0.2 mg/kg (day 1 only)
- 2Dose = 20 kg × 0.2 mg/kg = 4.0 mg
- 3Volume = 4.0 mg ÷ 1.5 mg/mL = 2.67 mL
- 4From day 2, switch to 0.1 mg/kg (2.0 mg / 1.33 mL) once daily
44 lb Dog — Maintenance (Pounds Input)
A 44 lb dog dosed at the maintenance rate, showing unit conversion.
- 1Convert: 44 lb ÷ 2.2046 = 19.96 kg
- 2Dose = 19.96 kg × 0.1 mg/kg ≈ 2.0 mg
- 3Volume = 2.0 mg ÷ 1.5 mg/mL ≈ 1.33 mL
- 4Give once daily with food
Introduction
The Metacam Dosage Calculator for Dogs estimates the correct dose of meloxicam — sold under the brand Metacam — for a dog based on its body weight and dosing phase. It uses the FDA-approved canine oral protocol: a one-time loading dose of 0.2 mg/kg on day 1, followed by a 0.1 mg/kg once-daily maintenance dose from day 2 onward. Because the dog product is 1.5 mg/mL, the calculator also converts the milligram dose into the exact millilitres to draw up. Meloxicam is an NSAID, so this tool is educational only — always confirm the dose with your veterinarian. For related tools, see our dog BMI calculator, dog age calculator, and the companion Metacam dosage calculator for cats.
How the Metacam Dose Is Calculated
Meloxicam is dosed by body weight in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). The calculator multiplies your dog's weight (converted to kg) by the rate for the phase you select, then divides by the dog suspension strength (1.5 mg/mL) to give a practical volume in millilitres.
Enter your dog's current weight and choose kg or lbs (pounds are converted automatically)
Pick the dosing phase: loading (0.2 mg/kg, day 1) or maintenance (0.1 mg/kg, daily)
Dose (mg) = weight (kg) × rate (mg/kg)
Volume (mL) = dose (mg) ÷ 1.5 mg/mL — the strength of the standard dog suspension
Read the dose, the syringe volume, the mg/kg rate, and the safety note
What Is Metacam (Meloxicam)?
Metacam is the trade name for meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the oxicam class. It is COX-2 preferential, meaning it reduces the prostaglandins that drive pain and inflammation while partly sparing those that protect the stomach and kidneys. In dogs it is one of the most widely prescribed medications for post-operative pain and chronic osteoarthritis.
Drug class: NSAID (oxicam), COX-2 preferential
Dog oral suspension strength: 1.5 mg/mL (honey-flavoured, standard size)
A 0.5 mg/mL small-dog suspension and 1 mg / 2.5 mg chewable tablets also exist
Cat oral suspension is 0.5 mg/mL — three times weaker than the dog bottle
Onset of pain relief is typically within 1–2 hours; effect lasts about 24 hours
FDA-Approved Canine Dosing Protocol
Unlike in cats, repeated oral meloxicam is FDA-approved for dogs. The label uses a day-1 loading dose followed by a lower daily maintenance dose given once every 24 hours.
| Phase | Rate (mg/kg) | When | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loading dose | 0.20 | Day 1 only | Reaches effective drug levels quickly |
| Maintenance | 0.10 | Day 2 onward, once daily | Lowest effective dose long-term |
| Injectable (vet) | 0.20 | Single SC dose | Peri-operative, given by the clinic |
Doses are intended for the 1.5 mg/mL dog oral suspension given by mouth, with or after food. Always titrate to the lowest effective maintenance dose under veterinary guidance.
Maintenance Dose by Dog Weight
Most dogs stay on the 0.1 mg/kg maintenance dose long term. This table shows the milligram dose and the millilitres of 1.5 mg/mL suspension for common dog weights — use it as a sanity check against the calculator.
| Dog Weight (kg) | Dog Weight (lbs) | Maintenance Dose (mg) | Volume (mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 11 lb | 0.5 mg | 0.33 mL |
| 10 kg | 22 lb | 1.0 mg | 0.67 mL |
| 15 kg | 33 lb | 1.5 mg | 1.00 mL |
| 20 kg | 44 lb | 2.0 mg | 1.33 mL |
| 30 kg | 66 lb | 3.0 mg | 2.00 mL |
| 40 kg | 88 lb | 4.0 mg | 2.67 mL |
How to Give Metacam Safely
Accurate measurement and good technique reduce the risk of accidental overdose, the most common cause of NSAID toxicity in dogs.
Shake the bottle, then measure the exact volume with the dropper/syringe supplied with the dog product
Give with or after food to lower the chance of stomach upset
Drop the dose onto food or directly into the mouth — measure precisely, never estimate
Give once every 24 hours; do not double up if a dose is missed
Keep a written log of the date, time, and amount given
Ensure fresh water is always available and the dog is eating and drinking normally
Metacam dog bottles come with a measuring syringe marked in kilograms of body weight for the maintenance dose — line the plunger up to your dog's weight, or use the mL volume from this calculator.
Safety, Contraindications & Cautions
Meloxicam is well tolerated by most dogs, but as an NSAID it can affect the stomach, kidneys, and liver — especially with overdose, dehydration, or drug interactions.
Do NOT combine with corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) or any other NSAID (aspirin, carprofen, firocoxib)
Avoid in dogs with kidney disease, liver disease, dehydration, low blood pressure, or stomach ulcers
Avoid in pregnant, nursing, or very young puppies unless directed by a vet
Use caution in dogs also taking ACE inhibitors, diuretics, or other nephrotoxic drugs
Stop and call your vet if you see vomiting, diarrhoea, dark/tarry stools, appetite loss, or lethargy
Never give human meloxicam tablets (e.g., Mobic) without veterinary direction — strengths differ greatly
Repeated oral meloxicam IS FDA-approved for dogs (unlike cats), but it still requires veterinary supervision, baseline and periodic bloodwork, and the lowest effective dose for long-term use.
Signs of Meloxicam Overdose
Because the maintenance dose is small, a measuring error or an accidental ingestion (e.g., a dog chewing the bottle) can cause toxicity. Know the warning signs and act fast.
- Gastrointestinal:
vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhoea, black tarry stool, loss of appetite
- Kidney:
increased or decreased urination, increased thirst, lethargy — signs of acute kidney injury
- Neurological:
weakness, incoordination, or seizures in severe cases
If you suspect an overdose, contact your vet or an animal poison control line immediately
Bring the bottle and your dosing log so the team can calculate the amount ingested
Animal poison control hotlines (e.g., ASPCA APCC at +1-888-426-4435) are available 24/7. Acting within the first hour after an overdose gives the best chance of preventing kidney damage.
When Metacam Is Used in Dogs
Veterinarians prescribe meloxicam for several canine conditions where inflammation and pain need control. This calculator helps you double-check the at-home dose your vet has set.
Osteoarthritis / degenerative joint disease — the most common long-term use
Post-surgical pain after spays, neuters, orthopedic, and dental procedures
Soft-tissue injuries, sprains, and musculoskeletal trauma
Hip and elbow dysplasia pain management
Acute inflammation and pain from various causes, under veterinary direction
Alternatives & Companion Medications
If meloxicam is not suitable — for example in a dog with kidney disease or a sensitive stomach — your vet may choose a different pain strategy. Never switch medications without veterinary guidance.
Carprofen (Rimadyl), firocoxib (Previcox), deracoxib (Deramaxx) — other canine-licensed NSAIDs
Galliprant (grapiprant) — an EP4 antagonist that is gentler on kidneys for osteoarthritis
Gabapentin — for chronic or neuropathic pain
Amantadine or tramadol — sometimes added for multimodal pain control
Joint supplements (glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids) as long-term adjuncts — see our omega-3 for dogs calculator
Common Dosing Mistakes to Avoid
Most canine meloxicam problems come from measuring or product errors, not the drug itself. Avoid these to keep your dog safe.
Confusing the loading dose with the maintenance dose and giving 0.2 mg/kg every day
Measuring with a household dropper instead of the supplied graduated syringe
Giving a second dose because the dog spat out or vomited the first — wait for the next scheduled dose
Continuing the drug despite vomiting, diarrhoea, or appetite loss instead of stopping and calling the vet
Combining Metacam with another NSAID or a steroid during a transition without a vet-directed washout period
Dosing a dehydrated dog or one that has stopped eating — both raise the risk of kidney injury
Frequently Misunderstood Points
A few points trip up dog owners using meloxicam at home. Clearing these up prevents the most common errors.
'Metacam' and 'meloxicam' are the same drug — Metacam is just the brand name
The dog suspension (1.5 mg/mL) is three times stronger than the cat suspension (0.5 mg/mL)
A bigger loading dose on day 1 is normal and intentional; the dose then halves for daily use
The maintenance dose for a 20 kg dog is only about 2 mg (1.33 mL) — meloxicam is a low-dose drug
More medication does not mean faster relief — it means a higher risk of stomach and kidney harm
Meloxicam & Canine NSAID Glossary
Key terms used in canine pain management with meloxicam. Understanding these helps you read the label and your vet's instructions correctly.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Meloxicam | The active NSAID drug in Metacam, used to reduce pain and inflammation. |
| Metacam | The brand name for the veterinary meloxicam oral suspension, tablets, and injection. |
| NSAID | Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug — blocks COX enzymes that produce inflammatory prostaglandins. |
| COX-2 preferential | Acts mainly on the COX-2 enzyme driving inflammation, partly sparing protective COX-1. |
| Loading dose | A larger first-day dose (0.2 mg/kg) used to reach effective drug levels quickly. |
| Maintenance dose | The smaller daily dose (0.1 mg/kg) used from day 2 onward. |
| mg/kg | Milligrams of drug per kilogram of body weight — the standard dosing unit. |
| Oral suspension | A liquid form of the drug; the dog product is 1.5 mg/mL. |
| Subcutaneous (SC) | An injection under the skin; meloxicam has a 0.2 mg/kg SC peri-operative option in dogs. |
| Osteoarthritis | Degenerative joint disease — the most common reason for long-term meloxicam in dogs. |
| Acute kidney injury | Sudden loss of kidney function — a key risk of NSAID overdose or use in dehydrated dogs. |
| GI ulceration | Stomach or intestinal ulcers — a risk raised by NSAID overdose or combining with steroids. |
Quick Reference Card
Metacam for Dogs — Quick Reference
Quick reference • Metacam Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Dose (mg) = Weight (kg) × Rate · Volume (mL) = Dose ÷ 1.5Valid range: Maintenance 0.1 mg/kg/day · Loading 0.2 mg/kg day 1
Common Values
⚠ Watch Out
- •Never combine with steroids or another NSAID
- •Avoid in dehydrated dogs or those with kidney/liver disease
- •Use the 1.5 mg/mL dog product, not the 0.5 mg/mL cat product
- •Stop and call your vet if vomiting, dark stool, or appetite loss occurs
Pro Tips
- →Use the supplied weight-marked syringe or a 1–3 mL syringe
- →Give with or after food, once every 24 hours
- →Keep a written dosing log to avoid double-dosing
- →Ask your vet about periodic bloodwork for long-term use
FAQs
How much Metacam can I give my dog?
The FDA-approved canine oral dose is a day-1 loading dose of 0.2 mg/kg, followed by 0.1 mg/kg once daily from day 2 using the 1.5 mg/mL dog suspension. For a 20 kg dog, that is a 4 mg loading dose (2.67 mL) on day 1 and 2 mg (1.33 mL) daily thereafter. Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian.
Is Metacam the same as meloxicam?
Yes. Metacam is simply the brand name for the drug meloxicam. Generic meloxicam suspensions and tablets (such as Loxicom or OroCAM) also exist. What matters most is the concentration: the standard dog suspension is 1.5 mg/mL, while the cat product is 0.5 mg/mL. Always check the label so you measure the right amount.
What is the difference between the dog and cat Metacam?
They contain the same drug at different strengths. The dog oral suspension is 1.5 mg/mL; the cat oral suspension is 0.5 mg/mL — three times weaker. The dosing protocols also differ (dogs: 0.2 then 0.1 mg/kg; cats: much lower maintenance of 0.05 mg/kg). Use the product labeled for your species and follow the matching protocol.
How do I measure the dose accurately?
Use the graduated syringe supplied with the Metacam dog bottle, which is often marked directly in kilograms of body weight for the maintenance dose. Alternatively, use the mL volume from this calculator with a 1 mL or 3 mL syringe. Shake the bottle first and read the measurement at eye level. A household kitchen dropper is not accurate enough.
Can I give my dog meloxicam every day?
Yes — unlike in cats, daily oral meloxicam is FDA-approved for dogs and is commonly used long term for osteoarthritis at the 0.1 mg/kg maintenance dose. Your vet will use the lowest effective dose and usually recommends periodic bloodwork to monitor kidney and liver function during long-term use.
What happens if I give my dog too much Metacam?
An overdose can cause vomiting (sometimes bloody), diarrhoea, dark tarry stools, appetite loss, increased thirst, and signs of acute kidney injury. Severe cases can lead to weakness or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, contact your vet or an animal poison control line (e.g., ASPCA APCC at +1-888-426-4435) immediately — early treatment greatly improves the outcome.
Can I give my dog human meloxicam (Mobic)?
Only under veterinary direction. Human meloxicam tablets come in 7.5 mg and 15 mg strengths, which are far higher than most dogs need and impossible to split accurately for small dogs. The veterinary suspension is much easier to dose precisely. Never give human meloxicam — or any human NSAID like ibuprofen or naproxen, which are toxic to dogs — without your vet's explicit instructions.
How long does it take for Metacam to work in dogs?
Meloxicam usually begins easing pain within 1–2 hours of an oral dose, with the full effect over several hours and a duration of about 24 hours — which is why it is dosed once daily. For chronic conditions like arthritis, owners often notice improved mobility and comfort over the first few days of treatment.
When should I NOT give my dog Metacam?
Avoid meloxicam in dogs with kidney disease, liver disease, dehydration, low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or stomach ulcers, and in those already on steroids or another NSAID. It is generally avoided in pregnant or nursing dogs and very young puppies. If your dog stops eating, vomits, or seems unwell, stop the medication and call your vet.
Can I give Metacam with other medications?
Never combine meloxicam with corticosteroids (like prednisone) or any other NSAID — the combination sharply increases the risk of stomach ulcers and kidney damage. Some other drugs (certain diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and nephrotoxic medications) also interact. Always tell your vet every medication and supplement your dog receives before starting Metacam.
Is this Metacam calculator a substitute for my vet?
No. This tool is for education and to help you double-check the dose your veterinarian has prescribed. Meloxicam dosing in dogs must account for kidney and liver function, hydration, other medications, and the specific condition being treated — factors a calculator cannot assess. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions and call them with any concerns.