You have been given a Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Medication (NSAID).  This medication is in the same class as most common human pain relievers, such as aspirin, and functions in much the same way.

The most common uses of NSAIDs are post-operative pain relief, trauma, and chronic painful conditions such as osteoarthritis.  Please be aware that most pets will not tell you that they hurt, they will not cry or whine.  Please pay close attention to your pet’s behavior for increased willingness to play, more attention seeking behaviors, less time sleeping, and getting up and down with more ease.   These are all signs that the pain reliever is working.

Dosing of NSAIDs is very important and it is essential to read and understand the labeling on your bottle.  More is not better!  The dose is also size dependant; so do not give one pet’s medication to another pet.  Most NSAIDs are toxic to cats. 

NSAIDs can cause very severe gastrointestinal (GI) problems when used in conjunction with other commonly prescribed medications.  This is why we need to know what types of medications your pet is on prior to prescribing any NSAID.

NSAIDs cannot be mixed, therefore do not give your pet any aspirin or other pain medications while he or she is taking an NSAID.   If you feel that your pet is still having discomfort please contact your veterinarian immediately.  

The most common side effects of NSAIDs are vomiting and/or diarrhea, as well as lack of appetite.  If you see any blood in you’re pet’s vomit or stool please discontinue the NSAID and call your veterinarian immediately.

Long-term use of NSAIDs in dogs and cats has been implicated in liver and kidney disease.  This is a very rare occurrence, however for this reason, pets receiving long-term pain relief treatment should have regular blood work to assess organ function.

NSAIDs can cause mild blood thinning – thus if your pet will be undergoing surgery please contact your veterinarian to establish whether or not it is safe for your pet to be on a pain reliever prior to the procedure.