Meloxicam (Metacam) side effects in cats
3,653 reports sent to the FDA between 2003 and 2026 involve Meloxicam in cats. The most reported problems were kidney problems, loss of appetite, lethargy. 23% were marked serious, and where it was recorded, signs eased after stopping the medicine in 33% of cases.
About this medicine
Meloxicam relieves pain and inflammation.
Products with this ingredient include Metacam. The FDA hides brand names in its public data, so these reports cover every product with the same active ingredients.
NSAIDs can affect the stomach, liver and kidneys. Vets usually recommend blood tests before and during long-term use.
Most reported side effects
Share = percentage of this medicine's reports that mention the problem. One report can list several problems.
Reports that it didn't work
Some reports are about the medicine not working (for example a cat still getting fleas or heartworm), not about a side effect.
How soon problems started
Time from the first dose to the first sign, where both dates were reported (1,198 reports).
How the animals did
Breeds named most often
Popular breeds appear more often because there are more of them.
- Domestic 1,765 reports
- Domestic Shorthair 783 reports
- Domestic Longhair 111 reports
- Siamese 106 reports
- Domestic Mediumhair 73 reports
- Persian 64 reports
- Maine Coon 49 reports
- Himalayan 36 reports
- Ragdoll 36 reports
- Cat (other) 32 reports