Tramadol for dogs is a pain reliever with anti-inflammatory effect. It is administered to fur noses who suffer from chronic pain.
Tramadol for dogs can also be used as part of postoperative therapy.
You will now find out what you need to consider when using and dosing tramadol in dogs, as well as side effects and alternatives.
Tramadol for dogs: what it is and what it is used for
First of all, tramadol for dogs is not a specific drug, but an active pharmaceutical ingredient.
However, this is in some cases also available as a medicine of the same name for dogs or as a medicine Tralieve for dogs.
This is found in some veterinary medicines that fall under the category of pain relievers. They are mainly used for chronic pain sufferers.
Tramadol can also be given after surgery to relieve the pain associated with the procedure.
It has been hotly debated for a number of years whether tramadol is also an effective pain reliever for arthritic diseases in dogs.
Tramadol is said to be one of the milder pain relievers for dogs.
It is said to have a relatively small influence on norepinephrine and serotonin getting into the nerve cells.
Incidentally, these two hormones are instrumental in preventing pain signals and thus also pain.
Tramadol for dogs is available in tablet form, usually in a concentration of 50 mg or 100 mg.
In addition, tramadol is also available in liquid form, i.e. as a suspension, which in many cases makes it easier to administer to dogs.
Proper use and dosage of tramadol in dogs
So that tramadol can help against pain in dogs, the recommended dose at 1 to 10 mg per kilogram of body weight of the quadruped.
If you treat your dog with Tralieve for dogs, the dose here is usually much lower and only 2 to 4 mg tramadol per kilogram of body weight.
The exact dosage is always determined by the attending veterinarian, who is the only one who can assess how useful it is to give the dog tramadol.
The dog to be treated with tramadol usually receives the correct dosage in two doses, 12 hours apart.
So that there is no fight when administering the tablets, you can also mix Tramadol with the dog food – as long as your dog does not wrinkle its nose in horror.
IMPORTANT
Use of medication in dogs is never the responsibility of the owner, who should not decide alone whether and which medication could help!
How long does it take for tramadol to work in dogs?
The effects of tramadol continue in dogs Within 24 hours a. After this time, however, the effect is already over, and a new dose may be necessary.
What side effects can tramadol cause in dogs?
As an opioid, the main side effects of tramadol in dogs are sedation, fatigue and lethargy.
Quite often there are side effects that affect the gastrointestinal tract, including Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea as well as loss of appetite.
Neurological side effects can also be seen when tramadol is administered to dogs. These include dizziness, seizures and disorientation.
Above all, please keep a close eye on these side effects and, if necessary and to be on the safe side, take your dog to the veterinarian.
When should I not use tramadol in dogs?
Tramadol must not be used in dogs if this one proven hypersensitivity to this drug have.
As a rule, existing kidney and liver problems are also exclusion criteria for tramadol treatment.
Please also clarify whether tramadol may be administered to a pregnant or lactating bitch. The same applies to puppies and particularly light dog breeds.
Furthermore, dogs suffering from epilepsy are excluded from treatment with tramadol.
There may also be interactions with other medications and active ingredients, including the following:
- azole antifungals
- metoclopramide
- cimetidine
- ketamine
- digoxin
You should consult your veterinarian regarding other possible interactions, although they are likely to be aware of all therapeutic approaches.
Where is tramadol for dogs available?
Tramadol is a prescription drug and therefore requires a prescription. Medicines containing tramadol are only available in pharmacies with a prescription.
What alternatives are there to tramadol for dogs?
If your dog needs a stronger pain reliever, you can an alternative Carprofen for dogs be.
This active ingredient also makes sense if your dog really has not had a good experience with tramadol.
Metamizol, which is contained in Novalgin for dogs, among other things, also has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.
Our guide “Which painkillers for dogs? An expert clears things up!”
By the way, not only pharmaceuticals can help against pain in dogs. Some homeopathic remedies can also be useful, including Traumeel for dogs.
As always, the same applies to medicines and homeopathy: Please always clarify application and dosage with your veterinarian in advance and get his approval. 😊
Have you already had to treat your dog with tramadol and how did he react? We would be happy if you share these experiences and your tips in our comments.