Last Updated on April 19, 2025 by Analgesia team
Is your feline friend feeling off lately—maybe moving slower, flinching when touched, or just not their usual curious self?
That might be pain or inflammation talking. And in many cases, your vet may recommend Metacam to help.
But before you give your cat anything, it’s smart to know what it is, how it works, and what to watch out for. So let’s dive into everything you need to know about Metacam for cats, and how it fits into the world of anti-inflammatories for cats.
What Is Metacam?
Metacam is the brand name for meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed by vets to treat pain and inflammation in cats and dogs.
It works by blocking enzymes (COX-2) that cause inflammation and pain. Think of it like turning down the volume on your cat’s internal “pain signals.”
In simple terms: Metacam helps your cat feel better by reducing swelling and soreness—without the use of steroids.
It’s most often used in liquid (oral suspension) form for cats, and it’s dosed based on weight. Even tiny miscalculations can be risky, so your vet will always tailor it to your cat’s size and condition.
Common Uses of Metacam For Cats
Let’s break down why your vet might reach for Metacam:
1. Post-Surgical Pain Relief
Cats recovering from surgery (like a spay, dental extraction, or tumor removal) may be given Metacam to ease post-op pain and reduce inflammation.
2. Arthritis and Chronic Joint Pain
Older cats or those with degenerative joint disease often benefit from anti-inflammatories like Metacam. It helps them move more freely and comfortably.
Important note: Metacam is typically not recommended for long-term use in cats due to kidney risks (more on that below), but sometimes vets prescribe it short-term in flare-ups.
3. Other Inflammatory Conditions
Some vets use Metacam to manage pain linked to:
- Urinary tract inflammation
- Mouth/gum issues (like stomatitis)
- Injury-related swelling
Always ask your vet why they’re prescribing it, and if there are any alternative treatments you should know about.
Is Metacam for Cats Safe?
Here’s the honest truth:
Metacam can be safe for cats—but only under strict veterinary supervision.
Unlike dogs, cats are extremely sensitive to many medications, including NSAIDs. Their livers process drugs differently, which means they can be more prone to side effects or toxicity if the dosage is even slightly off.
Key safety notes:
- Only give the cat-specific version of Metacam (the dog version has different concentrations)
- Never give Metacam without your vet’s instructions
- Short-term use is preferred—chronic dosing is more risky unless absolutely necessary
- Cats with kidney disease or dehydration should not take Metacam
Bottom line: Metacam isn’t something to experiment with at home. It’s a precision tool, not a “give it and see” kind of thing.
Metacam Dosage and How It’s Given
Most vets prescribe Metacam as an oral suspension, which comes with a dosing syringe for accurate measurement. The liquid is usually added to food or squirted directly into your cat’s mouth.
Because it’s flavored, many cats tolerate it well—but here are a few tips to make it easier:
- 🐱 Add it to a strong-smelling food (like tuna or chicken broth)
- 🐾 Use a treat chaser to encourage swallowing
- 🐈 Give gently and calmly if administering directly
Dosage tips:
- Follow the dose exactly. Even small overdoses can cause kidney issues.
- Do not “eyeball” the syringe. Use the measuring marks.
- Stick to the schedule. Don’t double up if you miss a dose—call your vet instead.
Metacam Potential Side Effects and Warnings
Just like with humans, medications have side effects—and Metacam is no different.
Common side effects in cats:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Increased thirst or urination (a sign of kidney strain)
Serious (and rare) side effects:
- Kidney failure
- Stomach ulcers
- Bloody stool or vomiting blood
- Sudden behavior changes or confusion
Stop giving Metacam immediately and call your vet if you notice any of the above. Better safe than sorry.
Alternatives to Metacam
Let’s say your cat can’t tolerate Metacam—or your vet prefers a different approach. What are the other options?
1. Other NSAIDs for Cats
There are very few NSAIDs approved for feline use. In some regions, drugs like Onsior (robenacoxib) may be used short-term with fewer side effects.
2. Pain Management Alternatives
Depending on the issue, your vet might recommend:
- Opioid painkillers (like buprenorphine for short-term severe pain)
- Gabapentin for nerve-related discomfort
- Corticosteroids (like prednisolone) if inflammation is caused by immune-related diseases
3. Natural Anti-Inflammatory Options for Cats
Now here’s where your secondary keyword comes in!
Some natural alternatives gaining attention in feline care:
- Fish oil (omega-3s): Helps reduce joint inflammation
- Green-lipped mussel extract: Supports joint health and mobility
- Turmeric (curcumin): Anti-inflammatory, but must be dosed carefully
- CBD oil (vet-approved): Still controversial, but some use it to manage chronic pain
For a full breakdown, check out “Best Natural Remedies for Cat Joint Pain”
Always check with your vet before trying natural supplements—cats are extra sensitive to herbs and oils.
Final Thoughts: What Cat Parents Should Know
Metacam can be a helpful, effective, and fast-acting solution for short-term pain relief in cats—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all treatment.
Let’s recap the essentials:
- It’s a vet-prescribed anti-inflammatory for cats, used for pain, post-surgery recovery, and arthritis
- Safety depends on strict dosing and short-term use
- Side effects can be serious, especially for cats with kidney or liver conditions
- There are alternatives, including other meds and natural anti-inflammatories for cats
Still unsure what’s right for your furry companion?
👉 Don’t miss Cat Painkillers | What you should give your cat” to help you spot the subtle signs of discomfort and what to give your cat.