Dogs are the most common pets that can be found in any home, since they have proven to be faithful companions and very friendly with the people they consider their owners or family members. However, there are times when they can suffer from diseases that cause some inflammation, so if you are wondering what anti-inflammatory can I give my dog? You will find the answer if you continue reading this article.
What anti-inflammatory can I give my dog?
Currently there are a large number of products made to relieve and remove this ailment in our pets, which have been certified by countless entities and competent bodies for veterinary health. Among which we can mention: carprofen, which is sold under a large number of names such as RIMODYL Other types of drugs are: Deracoxib, Firocoxib, Ketoprofen, Meloxicam, in addition to those known as Prednisone and Presdinolone. Even so, it is recommended to consult the veterinarian beforehand to be able to administer these substances.
Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
First of all, it can be pointed out that they are the analgesics most used by pet health specialists for the treatment of chronic pain associated with inflammation. These chemicals target pain mediators in the dog's central and peripheral nervous systems. The efficacy of this type of anti-inflammatories is due to several causes: they are effective as anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic drugs; they relieve acute and chronic pain, and have strong protein-binding capacity, thus adhering well to target tissue.
Symptoms resulting from use may appear half an hour to an hour later. It is also recognized that they last a full day. On the other hand, they lack immunosuppressants, so they can be used long-term. This class of drugs to reduce inflammation acts on the enzyme cyclooxygenase, a protein produced by the body that is essential for the performance of various functions. This enzyme stimulates the production of various substances, including prostaglandin, which:
At first they contribute to pain, inflammation and fever. Protects the stomach and intestinal mucosa. It helps maintain blood flow to the kidneys and is involved in blood clotting. Another aspect to think about which anti-inflammatory I can give my dog is that many of these products act against said enzyme, so they do not generate the fatty acids that stimulate the muscles that generate this phenomenon.
These anti-inflammatory drugs that I can give my dog, in themselves can lead to relief for the animal, although on the other hand they can have serious consequences and include vomiting, not wanting to eat and diarrhea, which can be bloody. Gastric or intestinal ulcers, perforations, kidney or liver failure and even death of the animal can also occur. If your animal shows any of these symptoms, stop giving the medication and contact your veterinarian.
Are steroidal anti-inflammatories dangerous?
As a first indication, it can be pointed out that the use of this type of substance that contains this element is recommended in certain cases. Steroids are used to treat inflammation, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. However, these medications can have negative side effects, so it is very important to always administer them under veterinary prescription. The most used in veterinary medicine are: prednisone, neopredef and dexamethasone. Although the administration of methylprednisolone and triamcinolone can also be recommended.
On the other hand, of the chemicals already mentioned, it is safe to say that prednisone and prednisolone are probably the most common in medications prescribed by veterinarians. Prednisolone is produced in the body from prednisone, but drugs in which it is already synthesized are sometimes prescribed. Steroids carry out their activity in the body in various ways and affect all systems. Therefore, a regular veterinary control of the dog is recommended during the application of the treatment.
Finally, it can be affirmed that as substances that are used to reduce this effect in the animal that we have as a pet, this type of complement for this type of substance that is used to reduce inflammation, as a means for the bone marrow, has the effect of reduce the release of white blood cells from the animal. Therefore, they are very effective in treating disc disease (herniated disc). Although the doses used are low, they have side effects including but not limited to vomiting, diarrhea, slow wound healing, or ulcers.
Is the use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen appropriate in dogs?
Anyone looking to care for an animal, especially dogs, should know that these types of medications, designed specifically for humans, cannot be administered to them. Only those approved for veterinary use can guarantee safety and efficacy for the specified species. In some cases, veterinarians use ibuprofen to treat inflammation and pain in dogs. However, it must be taken into account that it is dangerous to exceed the dose and there are other anti-inflammatory drugs specially designed for them.
Aspirin is generally recommended for dogs, but it should be given to dogs under the strict instructions of your veterinarian as it can cause side effects. You should also know that what is known as acetaminophen is poisonous for consumption in dogs. In addition to highlighting, it is not appropriate to provide any drug of another species for our dog. Remember that the side effects of anti-inflammatory medications can be very harmful, even fatal, to your dog. You should never give your dog any medication without veterinary supervision.
Can I give my dog Carprofen as an anti-inflammatory?
It is a class of nonsteroidal product used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and postoperative pain in dogs. It relieves pain and increases mobility in arthritic dogs and has become one of the most widely prescribed veterinary medications. But even if it is a safe drug, there are common side effects seen with any of these types of products. However, its efficacy is high and it is generally well tolerated by the dog.
However, its use is contraindicated in the event that the dog is allergic to this active ingredient, to aspirin or to another type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is recommended that the dog undergo a complete physical examination, including blood tests, prior to administration of this drug. Likewise, it is recommended that the veterinarian carry out periodic monitoring during the time that the dog must take the medication. If your dog has been prescribed an anti-inflammatory drug with the active ingredient present and has any of the negative symptoms, discontinue treatment and see your veterinarian.
The usefulness of Deracoxib
It is used in those animals that have undergone some type of surgery, such as osteoarthritis and also in other conditions or painful injuries. Its effectiveness is manifested in one or two hours and it is important to administer the doses at the times specified by the veterinarian. Side effects are typical of all others in its class. It is important to monitor the dog, discontinue medication, and immediately discuss any of these symptoms with your veterinarian.
Likewise, it is a moderate-acting drug, so its effect should disappear in a few days, although in case of liver or kidney disease it can be prolonged. It should not be used in dogs with hypersensitivity to sulfonamides, that have an allergic reaction to this active ingredient, to aspirin and others of this type, that suffer from liver or kidney disease or that are reproductive, pregnant or lactating. Certain medications interact with this product, as well as certain vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies.
Is Meloxican for dogs a good option?
It is another of the most widely used active ingredients, since it is used in cases of osteoarthritis, as well as other bone and muscle diseases. On the other hand, it works by reducing hormones in the body that cause pain and inflammation and is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. In addition, it is usually used after recent surgeries or injuries, and it is important to adjust the dose well, since its excessive use causes vomiting, dizziness or cardiac arrest, among others. If you notice black stools, bloody diarrhea, vomiting blood, an allergic reaction, or other negative symptoms, discontinue treatment and consult your veterinarian.
Ficoxib as a canine anti-inflammatory
It is the active ingredient in the products of various pharmaceutical companies for veterinary purposes. It is a class of anti-inflammatory agents used to treat arthritis and pain after surgery or trauma. It is also used to treat some cancers. It begins to act 1 or 2 hours after its administration. Its side effects are common with any type of these drugs. It should not be used in dogs that are allergic to it or in dogs with ulcers, kidney, liver, or heart problems. It can interact with other medications and also with vitamins, supplements, and natural treatments.
Ketoprofen for dogs suffering from inflammation
It is used to control moderate pain and inflammation. It should be noted that its use in America is not approved for small animals, but in the European Community, such as Canada, it is used in oral and parenteral formulations. In addition, it is known as a non-selective inhibitor of the enzyme that we mentioned at the beginning and is currently used in horses, but it is not usually used in dogs and cats, since there are some with fewer side effects. In the same way, its administration must always be under veterinary control.
Can the anti-inflammatory Prednisone and Prednisolone be given to dogs?
First of all, it should be mentioned that these are corticosteroids that are used as anti-inflammatory agents. These two classes have the same properties, since they are practically the same, since the first mentioned is transformed into the second in the liver. Also, in case of liver disease in animals, the specialist could request a drug that already contains prednisolone as an active ingredient. They are usually prescribed to treat adrenal gland damage, where the production of steroid hormones is insufficient.
On the other hand, the importance of their efficacy can be highlighted, since they are good for treating diseases that have a high degree of immunity, as well as for combating all the allergic reactions that can be generated, mainly due to their immunosuppressive effect, that is, suppresses immune system responses. Along the same lines, they are used in the treatment of some types of cancer, arthritis, asthma, intestinal or dermatological diseases, among others. They are safe medications, although they must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
Possible side effects include: increased thirst, urination, increased feelings of hunger, decreased wound healing process, vomiting. Also, for some experts, diarrhea, behavioral disorders, allergic reactions can also be included in this mention. On the other hand, with prolonged use, the dog could also suffer from diabetes, ulcers of the digestive system, Cushing's disease, hair loss, abdominal distension or heart problems. The drug should be gradually discontinued.
What natural anti-inflammatory can I give my dog?
Whenever your pet experiences this problem and causes discomfort, it is important to go to a specialist, since it may be due to a cause that requires urgent treatment. On the other hand, it should be noted that it is not advisable to provide your animal with these substances without first consulting a specialist. For those of natural or green origin, there are substances that can effectively treat inflammation without the side effects of medications.
However, ask your vet about their use as they can have side effects and some can interact with the active ingredients of various medications. Among the most common natural anti-inflammatories that are safe for dogs, we find. Arnica, which are specific creams for dogs and also come in capsules. On the other hand, there is turmeric, which is very good because it has a high anti-inflammatory power. You can add it to the animal's food (a teaspoon is enough).
The best is organic, because it contains a higher proportion of substance, its active ingredient. In addition, it has a high antioxidant power, which acts on free radicals and reduces inflammation. You must bear in mind that this is also an anticoagulant, so it is advisable to consult your veterinarian about its use. Cinnamon also has anti-inflammatory properties and its consumption is safe for the animal. For a dog weighing around 20 kilos, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon added to food twice a day for two weeks is sufficient.
If your dog is going to undergo surgery, you must first stop its administration, as there is a risk of bleeding. In addition, another type of product to reduce this problem is hawthorn, which is widely used to relieve arthritis because it helps the body to stabilize collagen. However, it can interfere with certain medications used to treat heart conditions in dogs. Comfrey is also a plant with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that you can give your pet with food or a soft paste.
Be careful because it contains pyrrolizidine, which in high doses can cause liver problems. Instead, there is Boswellia serrata, which is effective against pain and inflammation and is often combined with turmeric in Ayurvedic medicine. Finally, there are omega-3 supplements that are very effective. There are also many others, although it is recommended that you use them after carefully reading their properties, considering their possible adverse effects and with the approval of your veterinarian.
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