About the Pet Medicine Dosage Calculator
Safe Medication Administration
Proper medication dosing is critical for pet safety and treatment effectiveness. Underdosing may fail to treat the condition, while overdosing can cause serious side effects or toxicity. Always work with your veterinarian for prescription medications.
Weight-Based Dosing
Most pet medications are dosed by weight, typically in mg per kg of body weight. Accurate weight measurement is essential - even small errors can lead to significant over or underdosing, especially in small pets. Weigh your pet regularly and update dosing accordingly.
Common Medication Categories
- Antibiotics: Must complete full course, give with or without food as directed
- Pain Medications: NSAIDs require careful monitoring for side effects
- Parasiticides: Flea, tick, and worm preventives need precise dosing
- Supplements: Joint supplements, probiotics, and vitamins support health
- Chronic Medications: Heart, thyroid, and seizure meds need consistent timing
Administration Tips
Hide pills in treats or pill pockets for easy administration. Use pill guns for difficult cats. Liquid medications can be mixed with food if approved by your vet. Always follow with water to ensure pills reach the stomach. Never crush extended-release medications.
Monitoring for Side Effects
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or behavioral changes. Some medications cause increased thirst and urination. Keep a medication log noting doses, times, and any reactions. Report concerns to your veterinarian immediately.
Storage and Safety
Store medications as directed - some require refrigeration. Keep all medications secure from pets and children. Never share medications between pets. Dispose of expired medications properly through veterinary clinics or pharmacy take-back programs.