what to know: anti-inflammatories for your pet

Your pet may be prescribed anti-inflammatory medications, or NSAIDs, to help relieve their pain and swelling. These medications can make your pet more comfortable as they heal and are most often metabolized in the liver and kidneys. Like every medication, though, they carry risks that you should be aware of.

What to remember 

When your pet is taking veterinarian-prescribed anti-inflammatory medications, these are the most important things to remember: 

• Follow the directions from your veterinarian closely.
• Give the right dose at the right frequency.
• Keep your pet properly hydrated.
• Watch for possible side effects.
• Don’t share medications with your other pets. 

It’s often a good idea to write down any instructions you receive from the vet or to review any printed visit notes. If you can’t remember what your vet said and you don’t have a reference, call and ask for the instructions to be repeated. We’re happy to help! 

What to watch out for 

Vomiting or diarrhea 
Anti-inflammatory medications can be hard on pets’ tummies. Be sure to follow the specific directions from your vet and on the medication label. It’s usually best to have your pet take these with a meal and plenty of water.

Distress 
These medications are designed to help your pet feel more comfortable. Watch your pet to make sure they don’t seem to be experiencing more pain or discomfort after taking the medication.

If your pet is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea (especially if it’s dark in color) or if they seem to get worse, stop the medication immediately and call your local Banfield. After business hours, contact your local emergency veterinary clinic.  

Risk factors 

Some pets may be more vulnerable to side effects than others. It’s always important to monitor your pet while they take medication, but keep a closer eye on pets in these categories: 

Cats: Cats don't metabolize anti-inflammatory drugs as well as dogs. They’re more sensitive to side effects and can experience more complications. 

Sick or dehydrated pets: Try to keep your pet hydrated while on anti-inflammatories. 

Pets with kidney (renal) disease: Because these medications are usually processed in the kidneys and liver, pets with kidney (renal) disease can be sensitive to them. They may still be safe to use, but you should partner regularly with your veterinarian and watch closely for any potential side effects. 

Other medications: Anti-inflammatories don’t always mix well with other drugs. Make sure your veterinarian knows all of your pet’s medications and has a chance to review them with you before starting a new drug. 

Can I give my pet human anti-inflammatory drugs? 

Many people wonder if they can give their pets the anti-inflammatories from their own medicine cabinets. The answer is no. This is never recommended and can be very dangerous for your pet. 

If the medication was prescribed by a Banfield veterinarian, you can order your pet’s medication from the Banfield.com shop. It will be delivered right to your door. And if your pet is enrolled on an OWP, you’ll get a discount on many medications! 

Using anti-inflammatory drugs safely 

It’s always safety first when it comes to your pet and their medications! Our final tip is to remember to safely store your pet’s meds. They’re often chewable and flavored, making them a potentially tempting prize for little human fingers and curious pet paws. Make sure the containers are sealed and stored in a safe place in your home.

No medications are without risks, but anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are an important tool for veterinarians to help your pet heal. Following your vet’s instructions and watching for side effects will help minimize the risks and help put your pet on the road to recovery.