Metacam Dosage & Volume Calculator for Dogs

Calculate the correct Metacam (meloxicam) dose and volume for your dog.

Enter your dog's weight, select the medication concentration, and choose the dose type to get the exact amount of Metacam required. Always consult your veterinarian before administering any medication.

Practical Examples

See how to calculate Metacam dosage for different dogs.

Medium Dog, Standard Oral Suspension, Initial Dose

Standard

A 20 kg dog, using 1.5 mg/ml oral suspension, initial dose.

Dog's Weight (kg): 20 kg

Concentration (mg/ml): 1.5 mg/ml

Dose Type: Initial Dose (0.2 mg/kg)

Administration Route: Oral Suspension

Notes: Healthy adult Labrador

Small Dog, Puppy Suspension, Maintenance Dose

Maintenance

A 5 kg dog, using 0.5 mg/ml suspension, maintenance dose.

Dog's Weight (kg): 5 kg

Concentration (mg/ml): 0.5 mg/ml

Dose Type: Maintenance Dose (0.1 mg/kg)

Administration Route: Oral Suspension

Notes: Puppy, sensitive stomach

Large Dog, Custom Concentration, Initial Dose

Custom

A 40 kg dog, custom 2.0 mg/ml concentration, initial dose.

Dog's Weight (kg): 40 kg

Concentration (mg/ml): 2 mg/ml

Dose Type: Initial Dose (0.2 mg/kg)

Administration Route: Oral Suspension

Notes: Senior dog, arthritis

Medium Dog, Tablet, Maintenance Dose

Tablet

A 15 kg dog, using 1 mg tablet, maintenance dose.

Dog's Weight (kg): 15 kg

Concentration (mg/ml): 1 mg/ml

Dose Type: Maintenance Dose (0.1 mg/kg)

Administration Route: Tablet

Notes: Active dog, prefers tablets

Other Titles
Understanding Metacam Dosage & Volume Calculator for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide
Everything you need to know about safe and effective Metacam dosing for dogs.

What is Metacam and Why is Dosage Important?

  • Overview of Metacam (meloxicam)
  • Importance of Accurate Dosage
  • Risks of Overdose and Underdose
Metacam (meloxicam) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed for dogs to manage pain and inflammation, especially in conditions like arthritis or post-surgery recovery.
Why Dosage Matters
Accurate dosing is crucial to ensure effectiveness and minimize side effects. Overdosing can lead to serious health risks, while underdosing may result in inadequate pain relief.

Dosage Impact Examples

  • A 10 kg dog given 2 mg (instead of 1 mg) may experience toxicity symptoms.
  • A 30 kg dog underdosed may not get sufficient pain relief.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Calculator

  • Entering Accurate Weight
  • Selecting Concentration and Dose Type
  • Reviewing Results and Warnings
How to Use the Calculator
Start by entering your dog's weight in kilograms. Select the Metacam concentration from the dropdown or enter a custom value if needed. Choose the dose type (initial or maintenance). The calculator will instantly provide the required dose in mg and the volume in ml.

Step-by-Step Examples

  • A 20 kg dog, 1.5 mg/ml, initial dose: 4 mg (2.67 ml)
  • A 5 kg dog, 0.5 mg/ml, maintenance dose: 0.5 mg (1 ml)

Real-World Applications of Metacam Dosage Calculator

  • Veterinary Clinics
  • Home Use by Pet Owners
  • Animal Shelters and Rescues
Veterinarians use this calculator to ensure safe dosing for dogs of all sizes. Pet owners can double-check prescribed doses, and shelters can standardize medication protocols.
Who Benefits?

Application Scenarios

  • A vet quickly calculates the correct dose for a new patient.
  • A shelter staff member ensures all dogs receive safe, standardized doses.

Common Misconceptions and Correct Methods

  • Myths About NSAID Dosing
  • Tablet vs. Suspension Accuracy
  • Importance of Veterinary Guidance
Avoiding Mistakes
Never guess the dose or use human medications for dogs. Always use a calculator or veterinary guidance. Tablet splitting can be inaccurate; liquid suspensions allow for more precise dosing.

Misconception Examples

  • Giving a large dog a whole tablet instead of calculating the exact dose.
  • Using a kitchen spoon instead of a syringe for liquid medication.

Mathematical Derivation and Examples

  • Dosage Formula Explanation
  • Volume Calculation
  • Worked Examples
The Math Behind the Calculator
Dose (mg) = Weight (kg) × Dose Rate (mg/kg). Volume (ml) = Dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/ml). For example, a 10 kg dog, initial dose: 10 × 0.2 = 2 mg; if using 1.5 mg/ml: 2 / 1.5 = 1.33 ml.

Mathematical Examples

  • A 25 kg dog, maintenance dose, 1.5 mg/ml: 2.5 mg (1.67 ml)
  • A 7 kg dog, initial dose, 0.5 mg/ml: 1.4 mg (2.8 ml)