Metacam Dosage Calculator for Cats
Calculate the correct Metacam (meloxicam) dosage for your cat by weight and indication. Get first 24h dose and daily maintenance dose with injection volume and oral drops. Free veterinary tool.
This calculator is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before administering any medication.
About This Calculator
Our Metacam Dosage Calculator for Cats helps pet owners and veterinary professionals determine the correct dose of Metacam (meloxicam) for cats based on body weight and medical indication. This NSAID medication is commonly prescribed for managing post-operative pain, acute musculoskeletal pain, and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. The calculator provides both the first 24-hour dose with injection volume and the daily maintenance dose in mg, oral suspension volume, and drops.
Meloxicam (Metacam) dosing for cats follows a weight-based protocol that differs from dogs. For post-operative and acute pain, the initial dose is 0.2 mg per kg given subcutaneously using a 2 mg/mL solution. For chronic pain, the initial dose is 0.1 mg per kg. After the first 24 hours, all cats receive a maintenance dose of 0.05 mg per kg once daily using a 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension. The oral suspension delivers approximately 60 drops per mL for precise dosing.
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary medical advice. Metacam is a prescription medication that should only be administered under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Always consult with your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment plan, and specific dosing instructions for your cat's individual health needs.
Regional Availability
India: Metacam for cats is available by prescription from veterinary clinics and pharmacies. The 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension and 2 mg/mL injectable solution are commonly available.
United States: Metacam is FDA-approved for use in cats and is available by veterinary prescription in both injectable and oral suspension forms.
United Kingdom: Metacam is licensed for veterinary use in cats through the NOAH (National Office of Animal Health) compendium and is available through veterinary surgeons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metacam and what is it used for in cats?
Metacam is a brand name for meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in cats for managing post-operative pain, acute musculoskeletal pain, and chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis. It is a prescription veterinary medication available as an injectable solution (2 mg/mL) and oral suspension (0.5 mg/mL).
How much Metacam should I give my cat?
The Metacam dosage for cats depends on the indication. For post-operative and acute musculoskeletal pain, the first 24-hour dose is 0.2 mg per kg of body weight. For chronic musculoskeletal pain, the first 24-hour dose is 0.1 mg per kg. After the first 24 hours, the maintenance dose across all indications is 0.05 mg per kg once daily, given orally for up to 4 days.
What forms does Metacam come in for cats?
Metacam for cats is available as a 2 mg/mL solution for injection (used subcutaneously for the first dose, typically before surgery) and a 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension for subsequent daily dosing. The oral suspension is administered using a dropper that delivers approximately 60 drops per mL.
Can I give my cat the same Metacam dose as a dog?
No. Cats and dogs have different Metacam dosing protocols. Dogs receive a loading dose of 0.2 mg per kg on day 1 followed by 0.1 mg per kg maintenance, while cats receive a lower maintenance dose of 0.05 mg per kg after the first 24 hours. Always use a feline-specific dosing protocol and consult your veterinarian.
What are the side effects of Metacam in cats?
Side effects are rare in cats (less than 1 in 10,000) but may include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, elevated liver enzymes, gastrointestinal ulcers, and renal failure. Metacam preferentially blocks COX-2 over COX-1, which reduces gastrointestinal side effects compared to other NSAIDs like aspirin.
How do I give Metacam oral suspension to my cat?
Use the dropper provided with the medication. The oral suspension (0.5 mg/mL) is given once daily by mouth, directly into the cat's mouth or mixed with a small amount of food. Shake the bottle well before each use. The calculated number of drops corresponds to the daily maintenance dose for your cat's weight.
How long does Metacam stay in a cat's system?
Metacam has a half-life of approximately 24 hours in cats. This means half of the drug is eliminated from the body after 24 hours, and it typically takes more than 6 days (about 5 half-lives) for Metacam to be completely cleared from the cat's system.
Is Metacam safe for all cats?
Given correctly under veterinary supervision, Metacam is safe for most cats. However, it may not be suitable for cats with kidney disease, liver disease, dehydration, or those taking other NSAIDs or steroids. It should not be used in cats that are pregnant, lactating, or less than 6 weeks of age. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication.