Identification

• Meloxicam, sold under the brand name Metacam, is a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug known as an NSAID. Meloxicam is the only type of FDA-approved NSAID available for use in cats. This type of medication is available in an injectable form, and it is administered through a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection.
  
  

Uses in Cats

• Meloxicam for cats is administered to reduce and control inflammation and pain that occurs after surgical procedures. The types of surgeries in cats that may warrant a meloxicam injection include orthopedic, spay or neuter. Meloxicam is only approved for a onetime use injection administered prior to surgery; this type of injection cannot be repeated or followed up with another type of NSAID, or severe side effects will occur.
  
  

Considerations

• Unlike dogs, cats have severe side effects and reactions associated with NSAID medications; meloxicam is the only NSAID that has been found to have minimal side effects in cats. Veterinarians may opt not to use meloxicam in certain cats because side effects may still occur even with a onetime use. Cats that should not receive a meloxicam injection before surgery include those with kidney or liver problems, cats that are dehydrated before surgery, nursing or pregnant cats, cats younger than four months of age and cats with stomach or gastrointestinal illnesses.
  
  

Side Effects

• The FDA recommends that veterinarians inform pet owners if their cat has received a meloxicam injection and that pet owners observe and watch their cat for any side effects or reactions to meloxicam after the surgery. Side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, behavioral changes and lack of appetite. Any side effects that may signal a reaction to meloxicam should be immediately reported to the veterinarian.
  
  

Warning

• Pet owners should never try to control their cat's pain with any type of over-the-counter medications; cats have severe reactions to these medications, which may cause permanent liver and kidney damage or death. If pet owners are concerned about their cat's post-operative pain, they need to talk with their veterinarian about the meloxicam injection, if their cat is healthy enough to receive the injection and what other measures they can use to reduce their cat's pain.