Malaise after Meloxicam (Metacam) in cats

36 reports to the FDA describe malaise in cats given Meloxicam. That is 1.0% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 0.5% across reports for all cat medicines, so it is reported unusually often with this medicine.

36Reports
17%Marked serious
2.8%Recovered
25%Died or euthanised
–Typical onset
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How the animals did

Recovered with lasting effects
1 2.8%
Still unwell when reported
6 17%
Died
9 25%
Not known
20 56%

Problems reported at the same time

Age of the animals

Under 1 year
7
1–3 years
8
4–7 years
5
8–11 years
7
12+ years
8

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.

Questions owners ask

Can Meloxicam cause malaise in cats?
36 reports link the two, but a report alone does not prove the medicine was the cause: other illnesses, other medicines or coincidence can be involved. Your vet can judge it for your animal.
What should I do?
Don't give another dose until you've spoken to your vet, and keep the packaging so you can tell them the product and dose. Your vet can also report it to the FDA (or you can, through the manufacturer or FDA form 1932a).

Malaise with similar medicines

All reported side effects of Meloxicam in cats · Medicines most reported with malaise