Anti-inflammatory Drugs In Dogs And Cats: A Deadly Risk
Anti-inflammatory drugs are drugs prescribed for dogs and cats to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They are usually associated with osteoarticular diseases, such as arthrosis and arthritis, among others.
When should we give anti-inflammatory drugs to dogs and cats? Analyzing the risks, medications should always be taken under medical prescription.
Classification and some risks to consider
Anti-inflammatory drugs are divided into two groups: non-steroids, such as aspirin, and steroids, such as acetaminophen. Steroids are more problematic in animals due to the presence of steroids and their effects are the most powerful and best known to humans.
Due to the degree of danger of these anti-inflammatory drugs in dogs and cats, it is necessary that their administration is always approved by a veterinarian. As we have seen, medicating animals without medical advice can lead to irreversible harm.
Aspirin, for example, can cause death in cats with just one pill . It is more potent in dogs than in humans, so in canines, its elimination is slower.
It should be noted that the prescription of these medications must be individualized in all cases. It is recommended to present the animal’s clinical history to the veterinarian in charge of prescribing the medicines. It is also advisable to carry out blood and urine tests, before and during treatment, in order to control possible negative effects.
Side Effects of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Dogs and Cats
Anti-inflammatory drugs in dogs and cats can cause side effects. In many cases, the degree of toxicity of these drugs can lead to the death of both animals.
Peculiarities of effects in dogs and cats
Although some of the side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs are shared, it is important to recognize the particulars to detect the warning signs in each one.
In dogs, there are a number of secondary symptoms. The best known are: progressive decay, presence of blood in urine and fecal matter, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, rapid heart rate and even death.
We must be very attentive to serious cases of intoxication. These symptoms can be followed by a state of coma and subsequent death between 18 and 36 hours after taking the medicine.
When intoxication is high, in addition to the risk of death, organ damage can occur. In some cases, liver and kidney failures develop. These symptoms can be noticed by the presence of yellow color on the skin, gums and eyes, as well as by signs of dehydration, increased thirst and urination.
Precautions, preventive measures and care
Other than by prescription, anti-inflammatory drugs cannot be taken in combination with other steroids. In addition, it is advisable that the medicine be given after each meal, so that the drug can be absorbed by the body without causing harm. During treatment, you will need to provide the animals with fresh water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
the end of treatment
When the treatment comes to an end, it is important to pay attention to how the drug is not being administered. A sudden withdrawal could lead to a sudden decrease in cortisol. This decrease could cause an adrenal crisis, with symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, vomiting, loss of appetite and difficulty breathing.
Likewise, once the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs is carried out in dogs and cats, it is necessary to observe the symptoms in the following hours. A change in the animal’s behavior is indicative of the presence of an anomaly. In that case, you must stop the treatment and go to the vet immediately.
