Metacam for Cats Dosage Calculator
Calculate precise feline Metacam (meloxicam 0.5 mg/mL) oral drops for Day 1 loading and maintenance doses based on weight.
Input Parameters
Enter weight and maintenance rate tier.
Feline Maintenance Volume (0.5 mg/mL)
FDA Boxed Warning
Repeated oral use of meloxicam in cats has been associated with renal failure and death in the US. Only administer under strict veterinary instruction.
Feline Metacam Weight Dosing Chart (0.5 mg/mL Drops)
| Cat Weight (lbs / kg) | Day 1 Load (0.1 mg/kg) | Day 1 Volume (mL) | Maintenance Volume (0.05 mg/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 lbs (2.7 kg) | 0.27 mg | 0.54 mL | 0.27 mL |
| 8 lbs (3.6 kg) | 0.36 mg | 0.72 mL | 0.36 mL |
| 10 lbs (4.5 kg) | 0.45 mg | 0.90 mL | 0.45 mL |
| 12 lbs (5.4 kg) | 0.54 mg | 1.08 mL | 0.54 mL |
| 15 lbs (6.8 kg) | 0.68 mg | 1.36 mL | 0.68 mL |
Calculation Methodology & Biological Principles
Feline Dosing Formula
Feline glucuronidation deficiency delays clearance of NSAIDs. Low doses (0.05 mg/kg) prevent drug accumulation in feline renal tissue.
Veterinary Warning
Ensure adequate hydration before administering Metacam. Discontinue immediately if anorexia, lethargy, or vomiting develops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Metacam (meloxicam) FDA-approved for cats? ▼
In the United States, oral Metacam carries an FDA boxed warning for multiple oral doses in cats due to risks of severe renal failure. However, a single injectable dose is approved post-operatively. In Europe, Canada, and Australia, low-dose oral meloxicam is approved for feline chronic musculoskeletal pain under strict veterinary supervision.
What is the feline oral Meloxicam dosage where permitted? ▼
Where approved, international feline guidelines start with a Day 1 loading dose of 0.1 mg/kg, followed by a very low daily maintenance dose of 0.05 mg/kg (or 0.02 mg/kg long-term) using feline-specific 0.5 mg/mL oral drops.
Why should canine Metacam (1.5 mg/mL) NEVER be given to cats? ▼
Canine Metacam suspension (1.5 mg/mL) is 3 times more concentrated than feline formulations (0.5 mg/mL). Using canine Metacam in cats risks fatal accidental overdose and acute renal failure.