Medically Reviewed By: Medsdog Team
Last Updated: August 2026
For treating pain and inflammation Metacam® dosage for dogs is 0.2 mg of meloxicam per kg of body weight (0.09 mg/lb) on day one, then 0.1 mg/kg (0.045 mg/lb) once daily as a maintenance dose.
When it comes to pain management, inflammation or arthritis in dogs, precision counts. Metacam (meloxicam) is one of the most commonly prescribed NSAIDs for canine arthritis, post-surgical pain, and chronic inflammation. Administrating this drug is based on body weight, even a small measuring error can harm your furry friend.
To avoid any harm to your pooch, we have built a Metacam Dosage Calculator for Dogs to help you determine the appropriate dosage.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational reference only. Metacam is a prescription-only medication in most countries, and only your vet can confirm the correct dose for your dog’s weight, age, and health history.
Metacam® Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Estimate the meloxicam (Metacam®) dose and oral suspension volume for your dog based on body weight.
Estimated Dosage
What is Metacam and How Does It Work for Dogs?
Metacam® contains meloxicam which is an NSAID and helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain. It works by inhibiting enzymes called COX-1 and COX-2 which are involved in the inflammatory process.
By targeting these pathways, dogs Metacam is able to help relieve pain in dogs who are burdened with arthritis, joint disorders or after surgery.
Key Benefits:
- Decreases inflammation and swelling of the joints
- Relieves acute or chronic pain
- Increases mobility and quality of life for dogs
Important Note: Metacam should only be used at the advice of a veterinarian as incorrect dosing can cause stomach ulcers, kidney damage, or liver problems.
Metacam Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight (kg)
| Dog Weight (kg) | Day 1 Dose (mg) | Day 1 Volume (1.5 mg/mL) | Maintenance Dose (mg) | Maintenance Volume (1.5 mg/mL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 1.0 mg | 0.67 mL | 0.5 mg | 0.33 mL |
| 10 kg | 2.0 mg | 1.33 mL | 1.0 mg | 0.67 mL |
| 15 kg | 3.0 mg | 2.00 mL | 1.5 mg | 1.00 mL |
| 20 kg | 4.0 mg | 2.67 mL | 2.0 mg | 1.33 mL |
| 25 kg | 5.0 mg | 3.33 mL | 2.5 mg | 1.67 mL |
| 30 kg | 6.0 mg | 4.00 mL | 3.0 mg | 2.00 mL |
| 35 kg | 7.0 mg | 4.67 mL | 3.5 mg | 2.33 mL |
| 40 kg | 8.0 mg | 5.33 mL | 4.0 mg | 2.67 mL |
Metacam Dosage for a 10kg Dog
- A 10kg dog’s Metacam dosage is 2 mg (1.33 mL of 1.5 mg/mL suspension) on day one, then 1 mg (0.67 mL) once daily from day two onward.
Metacam Dosage for a 20kg Dog
- A 20kg dog’s Metacam dosage is 4 mg (2.67 mL) on day one, then 2 mg (1.33 mL) as the daily maintenance dose.
Metacam Dosage for a 25kg Dog
- A 25kg dog’s Metacam dosage is 5 mg (3.33 mL) on day one, then 2.5 mg (1.67 mL) once daily afterward.
Metacam Dosage for a 30kg Dog
- A 30kg dog’s Metacam dosage is 6 mg (4 mL) on day one, then 3 mg (2 mL) once daily from day two on.
Metacam 1 mg, 2.5 mg Tablets Dosage Chart for Dogs
| Body Weight (lb/kg) | 1 mg Tablets | 2.5 mg Tablets |
|---|---|---|
| 8.8–15.4 lb (4–7 kg) | 0.5 | – |
| 15.5–22.1 lb (7.1–10 kg) | 1 | – |
| 22.2–33.1 lb (10.1–15 kg) | 1.5 | – |
| 33.2–44.1 lb (15.1–20 kg) | 2 | – |
| 44.2–55.1 lb (20.1–25 kg) | – | 1 |
| 55.2–77.2 lb (25.1–35 kg) | – | 1.5 |
| 77.3–110.2 lb (35.1–50 kg) | – | 2 |
Tablets can be halved for more precise dosing and are usually meat-flavored, so most dogs take them voluntarily with or without food.
Factors That Affect Metacam Dosage For Dogs
While the weight is the primary factor, there are several other things that contribute to the safe dose of Metacam for dogs Dosage:
- Age: Puppies or older dogs may need smaller doses.
- Health Conditions: Kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal problems can have an impact on the metabolism of drugs.
- Other Medications: Pill combinations can raise risks when medication is combined including NSA ideas or steroids
- Duration of Treatment: Long term treatment needs to be monitored for side effects.
Signs that Your Dog is Responding Well
A treatment of Metacam Dosage For Dogs By weight should show improvements in: if the dosage is correct.
- Limping or stiffness reduced
- Increased activity and playfulness
- Decreased signs of pain or discomfort
Warning Signs: vomiting, diarrhea, blood in stool, lethargy or loss of appetite may be the signs of adverse reaction.
Consult your veterinarian at the first sign of any of these.
Metacam® Available Strength
- 0.5 mg/mL Oral Suspension: For tiny or small puppies.
- 1.5 mg/mL Oral Suspension: For dogs weighing over 10 to 20 lbs.
- Chewable Tablets: 1 mg or 2.5 mg strengths.
Metacam vs. Meloxicam vs. Arthrocam: Is the Dosage the Same?
This trips up a lot of pet owners, so it’s worth clarifying directly: Metacam, generic meloxicam, and Arthrocam are all the same active ingredient, dosed at the identical 0.2 mg/kg (Day 1) and 0.1 mg/kg (maintenance) rate.
Metacam is simply the original branded version made by Boehringer Ingelheim; Arthrocam and generic meloxicam are alternative brand names or generic equivalents sold in different markets, at the same concentration standards (commonly 1.5 mg/mL).
If your vet has prescribed a generic version rather than brand-name Metacam, you don’t need a different formula, the meloxicam dog dosage calculator math is the same.
If you specifically have a generic bottle and want a calculator built around that labeling, our meloxicam dosage calculator for dogs walks through the identical dosing logic with generic-specific examples.
How To Use Metacam Dosage Calculator For Dogs
A Metacam Dosage Calculator For Dogs By Weight makes it easier for you to determine the right dose at the correct dose based on the weight of your dog.
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While veterinarians can prescribe exact dosing instructions, pet owners can use calculators as a reference to ensure safety.
Step-by-Step Usage:
- Weigh Your Dog Accurately: You need to use a scale to accurately get the weight of your dog in kg or pounds.
- Select the Formulation: Metacam comes in a liquid (1.5 mg/ml) and tablet formulation.
- Input Weight Into the Calculator Input your dog’s weight and you will get the recommended dose.
- Administer According To Instructions: Follow the vet’s prescription and never administer more than the recommended dose.
Learn More:
- If your vet prescribed the generic version instead of the branded product, see our full breakdown in the meloxicam dosage calculator for dogs, including generic-strength dosing examples.
- Comparing NSAID options? Read our guide to carprofen dosage and dosing chart for dogs as an alternative pain reliever.
- For dogs who can’t tolerate meloxicam, many vets consider Deramaxx as an alternative NSAID for dogs, with its own weight-based dosing calculator.
- Another commonly prescribed meloxicam brand is covered in our Loxicom dosage calculator for dogs, which uses the same per-kg formula.
- Supporting long-term joint health alongside NSAID treatment? See our glucosamine and chondroitin dosage calculator for dogs with arthritis.
- For cats or dogs sensitive to meloxicam, some vets prescribe Onsior as an alternative pain and inflammation medication, with dosing details here.
FAQs
Can I give Metacam Dosage to my puppy or Small Dogs?
Metacam is not usually recommended for puppies less than 6 months and dogs with kidney or liver problems. Switch seed water for your horse to always ask your vet for suggestions and advice first.
How long can Metacam Dosage is safe for my dog to take?
Short term use is usually OK, but for long term uses, veterinary advises and periodic blood tests are necessary.
Can Metacam be administered with other pain drugs?
Combining Metacam with other NSAIDs, steroids or some supplements may be dangerous. Always consult your veterinarian.
Is there a Max dosage for Metacam Dosage For Dogs?
Yes, sometimes taking more than the recommended dose may lead to severe side effects. To make sure you are dosing at a safe range, use the Metacam Dosage Calculator For Dogs per kg or lb.
Can Hat become helpful in arthritis of mature dogs?
Yes, it is commonly prescribed in order to help with chronic pain and help senior dogs who suffer from arthritis to walk more easily.
Final Thoughts
Using a Metacam dosage calculator for dogs by weight (kg or lb)is a way to ensure your pet is given a safe, effective dose based on his/her weight and health condition.
Always follow veterinary advice, watch for side effects, and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time period.
With proper management, Metacam can be a highly successful method to increase your dog’s comfort and quality of life.
