Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), which function by blocking the production of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, are the most popular pain reliever prescribed to pets, according to the FDA. Your vet may prescribe this type of medication to manage pain caused by arthritis in dogs and post-operative pain in both dogs and cats. If your vet has fully assessed your pet’s health and medical history and has prescribed NSAIDS for pain relief, you might be wondering what to expect. Check out the following tips to get you started:
- Make sure your vet has thoroughly explained administration and dosage of the drug
- Your vet will perform regular blood tests to check on liver function during and after the use of NSAIDS
- Common NSAID side effects in animals include vomiting, diarrhea, lessened activity level, and loss of appetite
- Never give your pet an over the counter pain medication, such as aspirin, without checking with your vet first! Some medications and dosages that are safe for humans could be toxic to a dog, cat, or other pet.
Source:
http://www.healthcommunities.com/everyday-pet-care/nsaid-safety.shtml