# Rimadyl Carprofen Dose: NSAID Anti-Inflammatory Dose and Safety


## Key Takeaways

- The standard canine dose for carprofen (Rimadyl) is 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight per day, administered either once daily or divided into two 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) doses every 12 hours, and should always be given with food to mitigate gastrointestinal upset.
- Carprofen is a COX-2 preferential NSAID, primarily used for managing osteoarthritis pain and postoperative pain in dogs, by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Serious adverse effects of carprofen include gastrointestinal ulceration, renal toxicity, and hepatic toxicity, with risk factors including age, pre-existing disease, dehydration, and concurrent use of other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
- A toxic dose threshold for carprofen is considered to be greater than 20 mg/kg (approximately 9 mg/lb), requiring immediate veterinary intervention and potential decontamination or therapeutic plasma exchange in cases of overdose.
- Baseline blood work (liver enzymes, kidney values) and periodic monitoring are crucial for dogs on carprofen therapy, especially for senior dogs or those with pre-existing conditions, to detect potential adverse effects early.
- Carprofen should not be administered concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids due to a significantly increased risk of severe gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation.

---

**Direct Answer:** The standard canine Rimadyl (carprofen) dose is **2 mg per pound (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight per day**, divided into two equal doses of 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) given 12 hours apart, or given once daily as a single 2 mg/lb dose. This is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that requires veterinary supervision and baseline blood work. **Do not administer this medication without a veterinarian's diagnosis and dosing instructions.**

**Owner Triage Summary:** If your [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog) has ingested more than 20 mg/kg (approximately 9 mg/lb) of carprofen, this constitutes a potential toxic dose requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Contact an emergency veterinary hospital, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, or the Pet Poison Helpline right away. Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a professional, as this can cause aspiration or additional injury. Bring the medication bottle with you to the veterinary facility.

---

## At a Glance: Carprofen Dosing and Safety Reference

| Parameter | Standard Canine Dose | Toxic Dose Threshold | Notes |
|------|-----------|-----------|----|
| **Total Daily Dose** | 2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) | >20 mg/kg (9 mg/lb) | Administer with food to reduce GI upset |
| **Dosing Frequency** | Once daily OR divided every 12 hours | N/A | Follow veterinarian's specific instructions |
| **Route** | Oral (tablet, chewable, caplet) | N/A | Injectable forms exist for veterinary use only |
| **Onset of Action** | 1-3 hours for pain relief | N/A | Peak plasma levels reached within 1-3 hours |
| **Duration of Effect** | 12-24 hours depending on dose | N/A | Individual variation occurs |
| **Common Side Effects** | Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite | N/A | Report any GI signs to your veterinarian |
| **Serious Adverse Effects** | GI ulceration, kidney injury, liver injury | N/A | Requires immediate veterinary care |
| **Monitoring** | Baseline and periodic blood work | N/A | Especially important in senior dogs |

---

## Understanding Carprofen and Rimadyl

Carprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the propionic acid class, the same family as ibuprofen and naproxen. Rimadyl is the pioneer brand name for carprofen, originally approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in dogs. Since that approval, several generic, bioequivalent products have entered the market, including Carprieve and others [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. These products contain the same active ingredient and are designed to be interchangeable, though individual dogs may show preferences for specific formulations. In one study, 73.0% of dogs voluntarily accepted Rimadyl chewable tablets, while 70.3% accepted a generic bioequivalent product, and 64.9% of dogs accepted both products when offered [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].

Carprofen is classified as a COX-2 preferential NSAID, meaning it selectively inhibits the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain while having less effect on COX-1, which helps protect the gastrointestinal lining and support normal platelet function [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. This selectivity is why carprofen is generally considered safer than older, non-selective NSAIDs, though it is not without risk.

### Mechanism of Action

Carprofen works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2, which catalyze the production of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis at sites of inflammation, carprofen decreases pain and swelling while preserving some of the protective functions of COX-1-derived prostaglandins in the stomach and kidneys [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

Research has shown that carprofen also has effects beyond simple COX inhibition. Studies in canine vascular endothelial cells demonstrate that carprofen reduces cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting potential anti-angiogenic properties that might be useful in cancer therapy [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>]. Additionally, carprofen has been investigated for its effects on growth factors and cytokines released from platelet-rich gels, with studies showing that it can influence the inflammatory response at the cellular level [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>].

---

## Approved Uses and Indications

Carprofen is most commonly prescribed for:

1. **Osteoarthritis (OA) Management**: Osteoarthritis affects nearly 20% of all dogs over one year of age, causing pain, discomfort, lameness, and eventual disability [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Carprofen has ample supportive evidence demonstrating its efficacy in managing the clinical signs of OA [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].

2. **Postoperative Pain Control**: Carprofen is frequently used to manage pain following surgical procedures, including orthopedic surgery, soft tissue surgery, and dental procedures.

3. **Acute Pain and Inflammation**: It can be used for acute musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains, strains, and traumatic injuries.

4. **Other Inflammatory Conditions**: Carprofen may be prescribed for other conditions involving inflammation, though its use should always be based on a veterinary diagnosis.

The analgesic effect of carprofen has been demonstrated in various species. In sheep, a 4 mg/kg dose maintained plasma concentrations above 1.5 µg/ml, the level needed for analgesic effect, for 144 hours regardless of administration route [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. In mice, carprofen at 5 mg/kg has been shown to provide antinociceptive effects comparable to other analgesics [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>], and high-dose protocols (20 mg/kg) have been used successfully in laboratory settings [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].

---

## Carprofen Dosing Guidelines

### Canine Dosing

The standard FDA-approved dose for carprofen in dogs is **2 mg/lb (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight per day**. This can be administered as:

- **Once daily**: A single 2 mg/lb dose
- **Divided dosing**: 1 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) every 12 hours

The dose should be based on the dog's current body weight, not an estimated or historical weight. Accurate dosing is critical because the margin between therapeutic and toxic doses can be narrow in some individuals.

### Important Dosing Considerations

1. **Do Not Double Up**: If you miss a dose, do not give two doses at once. Skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule.

2. **Administer with Food**: Giving carprofen with food can help reduce gastrointestinal upset, though it may slightly delay absorption.

3. **Duration of Use**: Carprofen is approved for both short-term (postoperative) and long-term (osteoarthritis) use. The duration should be determined by your veterinarian based on your dog's response and any adverse effects.

4. **Individual Variation**: Some dogs may require dose adjustments based on their response and tolerance. Always follow your veterinarian's specific instructions.

5. **Weight Changes**: If your dog gains or loses significant weight, the dose may need adjustment. Recheck weights regularly during long-term therapy.

### Dosing in Other Species

While this article focuses on canine use, carprofen is also used in other species:

- **Cattle**: A standard oral dose of 2.0 mg/kg has been studied for pain control during dehorning [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>].
- **Sheep**: A 4 mg/kg dose provides adequate plasma concentrations for analgesia for up to 144 hours [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>].
- **Pigs**: Pharmacokinetic studies have evaluated 4 mg/kg doses administered intravenously and orally [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>].
- **Mice**: Doses range from 5 mg/kg to 20 mg/kg depending on the study and analgesic requirements [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>][<a href="#ref-10">10</a>][<a href="#ref-11">11</a>].
- **Crocodiles**: Pharmacokinetic studies have evaluated 2 mg/kg and 4 mg/kg intramuscular doses [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

**Never administer carprofen to cats without explicit veterinary instruction**, as cats have different metabolic pathways and are more susceptible to toxicity.

---

## Safety Profile and Adverse Effects

### Common Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects of carprofen include:

- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (or diarrhoea in Commonwealth spelling)
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Changes in drinking or urination habits

These effects are often mild and may resolve with continued use, but any gastrointestinal signs should be reported to your veterinarian promptly.

### Serious Adverse Effects

#### Gastrointestinal Ulceration

Gastrointestinal ulceration is a significant concern with all NSAIDs, including carprofen. A 2025 study of 33 dogs with GI ulceration found that carprofen was the most commonly prescribed NSAID among affected dogs, though it is also one of the most prescribed NSAIDs overall [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]. The study reported that 22 dogs received a single NSAID, with carprofen being the most common (9 dogs), followed by meloxicam (4 dogs) and deracoxib (3 dogs) [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>].

Key findings from this study include:

- Eleven dogs receiving a single COX-2-sparing NSAID at an appropriate dose still developed ulcerations [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]
- All dogs receiving two NSAIDs concurrently experienced full-thickness perforation (5 of 5 dogs) [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]
- The most common ulcer locations were the duodenum (18 dogs) and pylorus (11 dogs) [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]
- Abdominal ultrasound correctly identified the site of ulceration in only 5 of 24 dogs [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]

Another study on gastric or duodenal perforation (GDP) found that NSAID administration, even at labeled doses, appears to be a precipitating factor for GDP [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>]. In that study of 30 dogs, 18 dogs received only one NSAID at the labeled dose, with meloxicam being the most common (44.4%), followed by firocoxib (27.8%), deracoxib (16.7%), and piroxicam (11.1%) [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>]. Interestingly, carprofen was the most commonly prescribed NSAID in the referring veterinary community (70.6%) but was not associated with GDP in the dogs studied, suggesting that other factors may contribute to perforation risk [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>].

#### Renal Toxicity

NSAIDs can cause kidney injury by reducing renal blood flow, particularly in dehydrated or hypotensive patients. Carprofen's effect on renal function has been demonstrated in animal models. In a mouse study, carprofen treatment increased plasma creatinine levels and worsened kidney injury following myocardial infarction [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>]. The study also found increased expression of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), a marker of kidney injury, in carprofen-treated mice [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>].

Dogs with pre-existing kidney disease, heart failure, or dehydration are at increased risk for NSAID-induced renal injury.

#### Hepatic Toxicity

Liver injury is a less common but potentially serious adverse effect of carprofen. Signs of liver toxicity include:

- Jaundice (yellowing of the gums, eyes, or skin)
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Dark urine

#### Cardiovascular Effects

Prolonged NSAID use has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk. In a mouse model, carprofen pretreatment impaired the initiation of inflammatory and resolution responses and promoted cardiorenal syndrome in heart failure [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>]. The study found that carprofen treatment increased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β after myocardial infarction [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>].

### Risk Factors for Adverse Effects

- **Age**: Senior dogs are at higher risk due to decreased renal and hepatic function
- **Pre-existing disease**: Kidney, liver, or heart disease increases risk
- **Concurrent medications**: Especially other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or anticoagulants
- **Dehydration**: Increases risk of renal toxicity
- **Gastrointestinal disease**: History of ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease
- **Low body weight**: May be more susceptible to toxic effects

---

## Drug Interactions

Carprofen should not be used concurrently with:

1. **Other NSAIDs**: Including aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, deracoxib, firocoxib, and others. Combining NSAIDs significantly increases the risk of GI ulceration and perforation [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>][<a href="#ref-13">13</a>].

2. **Corticosteroids**: Including prednisone, prednisolone, and dexamethasone. The combination of NSAIDs and steroids increases the risk of severe GI ulceration [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>][<a href="#ref-13">13</a>].

3. **Anticoagulants**: Such as warfarin, as NSAIDs can increase bleeding risk.

4. **Other Nephrotoxic Drugs**: Including certain antibiotics and diuretics.

5. **ACE Inhibitors and Diuretics**: Used for heart disease, as NSAIDs can reduce their effectiveness and increase renal risk.

A study on dogs receiving NSAIDs and/or corticosteroids found that all dogs receiving two NSAIDs concurrently experienced full-thickness GI perforation [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]. Additionally, dogs receiving an NSAID and a corticosteroid were at risk of severe ulceration [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>].

---

## Contraindications

Carprofen should not be used in:

- Dogs with known hypersensitivity to carprofen or other NSAIDs
- Dogs with active GI bleeding or ulceration
- Dogs with significant kidney or liver disease (unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian with monitoring)
- Dogs that are dehydrated, hypotensive, or in shock
- Breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs (safety has not been established)
- Cats (unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian, as dosing and safety differ significantly)

---

## Carprofen Toxicity and Overdose

### Toxic Doses

The toxic dose of carprofen varies depending on individual susceptibility and concurrent health conditions. Based on established toxic ranges, carprofen doses are categorized as:

- **Gastrointestinal toxic dose**: Lower doses that may cause GI upset
- **Renal toxic dose**: Doses that may cause kidney injury
- **Neurological toxic dose**: Highest doses that may cause CNS signs

In a study of 62 dogs treated with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) for NSAID overdose, the median dose of carprofen ingested was 217 mg/kg (range, 88-625 mg/kg) [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>]. Based on established toxic ranges, 2 (3.2%) dogs ingested a gastrointestinal toxic dose, 14 (22.6%) ingested a renal toxic dose, and 46 (74.2%) ingested a neurological toxic dose [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>].

Another report described a dog that ingested 223 mg/kg of carprofen and was successfully treated with a combination of decontamination techniques and manual TPE [<a href="#ref-16">16</a>].

### Signs of Toxicity

Signs of carprofen toxicity may include:

- Vomiting (with or without blood)
- Diarrhea (with or without blood)
- Black, tarry stools (melena)
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Abdominal pain
- Increased thirst and urination
- Pale gums
- Weakness or collapse
- Seizures (in severe cases)
- Coma

### Emergency Treatment

If you suspect carprofen toxicity:

1. **Contact a veterinarian immediately**: Call your regular veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital
2. **Contact a poison control center**: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)
3. **Do not induce vomiting** unless instructed by a professional
4. **Bring the medication bottle** with you to the veterinary facility

### Veterinary Treatment of Toxicity

Treatment for carprofen toxicity may include:

- **Decontamination**: Inducing vomiting (if within 1-2 hours of ingestion), activated charcoal administration
- **Gastrointestinal protectants**: Sucralfate, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors
- **Intravenous fluids**: To maintain hydration and renal perfusion
- **Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE)**: In severe cases, TPE can effectively remove carprofen from the blood. In one study, TPE was used in 62 dogs with NSAID overdose, with a 98.4% survival rate [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>]. Another case report described a 57% decrease in carprofen levels with a combination of activated charcoal, cholestyramine, IV lipid emulsion, and manual TPE [<a href="#ref-16">16</a>]
- **Cholestyramine**: A bile acid sequestrant that can bind carprofen in the GI tract
- **Intravenous lipid emulsion**: May help bind lipophilic drugs like carprofen
- **Symptomatic and supportive care**: Including anti-nausea medications, pain management, and monitoring of organ function

The median duration of hospitalization for dogs treated with TPE for NSAID overdose was 2.25 days (range, 1-11 days), with 98.4% surviving to discharge [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>]. TPE sessions typically last 2 hours (range, 1-4.5 hours) and process a median of 1.6 plasma volumes [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>].

---

## Monitoring and Follow-Up

### Baseline Testing

Before starting carprofen therapy, your veterinarian should:

1. **Perform a thorough physical examination**
2. **Run baseline blood work**: Including liver enzymes (ALT, ALP), kidney values (BUN, creatinine), and total protein
3. **Assess hydration status**
4. **Review the dog's complete medication history**
5. **Discuss potential risks and benefits** with you

### Ongoing Monitoring

For dogs on long-term carprofen therapy, regular monitoring is essential:

- **Recheck examinations**: Every 3-6 months for chronic use
- **Blood work**: Periodic liver and kidney function tests
- **Owner observation**: Monitor for changes in appetite, drinking, urination, behavior, or stool quality

### When to Stop the Medication

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:

- Vomiting or diarrhea (especially with blood)
- Decreased or absent appetite
- Increased thirst or urination
- Lethargy or weakness
- Yellowing of gums or eyes
- Behavioral changes
- Any new or worsening clinical signs

---

## Carprofen in Special Populations

### Senior Dogs

Senior dogs are at higher risk for NSAID-related adverse effects due to age-related decreases in renal and hepatic function. Extra caution is needed, and lower doses or alternative pain management strategies may be considered. Baseline and periodic blood work is especially important in this population.

### Dogs with Kidney or Liver Disease

Carprofen should be used with extreme caution in dogs with pre-existing kidney or liver disease. The medication can worsen these conditions, and alternative pain management options should be discussed with your veterinarian.

### Dogs with Heart Disease

NSAIDs can worsen heart failure by causing fluid retention and reducing renal blood flow. A study in mice demonstrated that carprofen treatment worsened cardiorenal syndrome in heart failure [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>]. Dogs with heart disease should be monitored closely if carprofen is prescribed.

### Dogs with Gastrointestinal Disease

Dogs with a history of GI ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or other GI conditions are at increased risk for NSAID-related GI complications. Gastrointestinal protectants may be recommended in these cases.

---

## Alternative Pain Management Options

While carprofen is an effective NSAID, other pain management options exist. These include:

- **Other NSAIDs**: Meloxicam, deracoxib, firocoxib, robenacoxib (though these carry similar risks)
- **Nutraceuticals**: Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids
- **Physical therapy**: Rehabilitation, massage, hydrotherapy
- **Weight management**: Reducing excess weight can significantly decrease joint pain
- **Surgical options**: For certain orthopedic conditions
- **Multimodal analgesia**: Combining different classes of pain medications (e.g., NSAIDs with opioids, local anesthetics, or other adjuncts)

Research in mice has explored multimodal analgesia combining carprofen with sustained-release buprenorphine and local anesthetics for neurosurgical procedures. Interestingly, the comparison between groups failed to indicate the superiority of multimodal regimens over high-dose NSAID monotherapy, though all drug regimens were well tolerated [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>].

Other novel analgesics are being investigated. For example, (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine (HNK), a ketamine metabolite, has shown antinociceptive effects comparable to carprofen in a mouse model of inflammatory pain [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. However, these are not yet approved for veterinary use.

---

## Carprofen Formulations and Administration

### Available Formulations

Carprofen is available in several formulations:

- **Chewable tablets**: Often liver-flavored for palatability (25 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg sizes)
- **Caplets**: Scored caplets for dose flexibility
- **Injectable solution**: For veterinary use (50 mg/mL)

### Administration Tips

1. **Give with food** to reduce GI upset
2. **Use a pill pocket or hide in a small amount of food** if your dog resists taking medication
3. **Do not crush or break tablets** unless instructed, as some formulations are designed to be given whole
4. **Store at room temperature** away from moisture and direct sunlight
5. **Keep out of reach of pets and children**

### Generic Bioequivalence

Several generic carprofen products are available and have been shown to be bioequivalent to Rimadyl. A study comparing Rimadyl and Carprieve chewable tablets found similar acceptance rates in dogs, with 73.0% accepting Rimadyl and 70.3% accepting Carprieve [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Both products are FDA-approved and considered interchangeable, though individual dogs may show preferences.

---

## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian

This article provides general information about carprofen dosing and safety, but it cannot predict how an individual dog will respond to this medication. Breed, age, weight, health status, concurrent medications, and other factors all influence both the efficacy and safety of carprofen therapy.

**Contact your veterinarian immediately if:**

1. Your dog shows any signs of adverse effects, including vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or lethargy
2. You suspect your dog has ingested more than the prescribed dose
3. Your dog has been diagnosed with kidney, liver, or heart disease and is taking carprofen
4. Your dog is pregnant, nursing, or intended for breeding
5. You are considering giving your dog any other medication, supplement, or herbal product while on carprofen
6. Your dog's pain is not well controlled with the current dose
7. You have any questions or concerns about your dog's treatment

**Emergency red flags requiring immediate veterinary attention:**

- Vomiting blood or dark, coffee-ground-like material
- Black, tarry stools
- Severe abdominal pain
- Collapse or severe weakness
- Yellowing of the gums or eyes
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures

---

## Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. What is the correct Rimadyl dose for my dog?

The standard Rimadyl (carprofen) dose for dogs is 2 mg per pound (4.4 mg/kg) of body weight per day, given either once daily or divided into two doses of 1 mg/lb every 12 hours. Your veterinarian will determine the exact dose based on your dog's weight, health status, and the condition being treated.

### 2. How quickly does Rimadyl start working?

Carprofen typically reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 3 hours after oral administration. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects are usually noticeable within a few hours, though full effects may take several days of consistent dosing for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.

### 3. Can I give my dog Rimadyl and other pain medications together?

No, you should never combine Rimadyl with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids without explicit veterinary approval. Combining these medications significantly increases the risk of severe gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>][<a href="#ref-13">13</a>]. Always discuss any additional medications with your veterinarian.

### 4. What are the signs of Rimadyl toxicity in dogs?

Signs of carprofen toxicity include vomiting (with or without blood), diarrhea, black tarry stools, loss of appetite, lethargy, abdominal pain, increased thirst and urination, pale gums, weakness, seizures, and coma in severe cases. If you suspect toxicity, contact a veterinarian or poison control center immediately.

### 5. How long can a dog stay on Rimadyl?

Carprofen can be used for both short-term (postoperative) and long-term (osteoarthritis) management. The duration of treatment depends on your dog's condition and response. Long-term use requires regular veterinary monitoring, including periodic blood work to assess liver and kidney function.

### 6. Is Rimadyl safe for all dogs?

No, Rimadyl is not safe for all dogs. It should not be used in dogs with known hypersensitivity to carprofen, active GI bleeding or ulceration, significant kidney or liver disease, or in dehydrated, hypotensive, or shocky patients. It should also be used with caution in senior dogs and those with heart disease.

### 7. What should I do if I miss giving my dog a dose of Rimadyl?

If you miss a dose, skip it and give the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not double up on doses, as this increases the risk of adverse effects. Contact your veterinarian if you have questions about missed doses.

### 8. Can Rimadyl be given to cats?

Carprofen is not approved for use in cats in many countries, including the United States. Cats have different metabolic pathways and are more susceptible to NSAID toxicity. Never give Rimadyl to a [cat](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/cat) unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian, and always follow their dosing instructions exactly.

---

## Veterinary Disclaimer

**This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.** Always consult with a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. The information provided here is based on published research and clinical guidelines, but individual cases may vary significantly. Your veterinarian can provide personalized advice based on your pet's specific health status and needs.

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<a id="ref-10"></a>[<a href="#ref-10">10</a>] [Antinociceptive and Cardiorespiratory Effects of a Single Dose of Dexmedetomidine in Laboratory Mice Subjected to Craniotomy under General Anaesthesia with Isoflurane and Carprofen or Meloxicam.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38540011/)

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<a id="ref-12"></a>[<a href="#ref-12">12</a>] [Dogs receiving cyclooxygenase-2-sparing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or nonphysiologic steroids are at risk of severe gastrointestinal ulceration.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39426398/)

<a id="ref-13"></a>[<a href="#ref-13">13</a>] [Gastric or duodenal perforation and secondary septic peritonitis following therapeutic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35708902/)

<a id="ref-14"></a>[<a href="#ref-14">14</a>] [Pretreatment of carprofen impaired initiation of inflammatory- and overlapping resolution response and promoted cardiorenal syndrome in heart failure.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30597172/)

<a id="ref-15"></a>[<a href="#ref-15">15</a>] [Outcomes of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug toxicosis treated with therapeutic plasma exchange in 62 dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35930372/)

<a id="ref-16"></a>[<a href="#ref-16">16</a>] [Successful management of severe carprofen toxicity with manual therapeutic plasma exchange in a dog.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35527394/)

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<a id="ref-18"></a>[<a href="#ref-18">18</a>] [Computer-Aided Drug Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Safety Evaluation of Carprofen Analogs for Novel Alzheimer's Disease Therapeutics.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42457594/)

<a id="ref-19"></a>[<a href="#ref-19">19</a>] [Toxic Effects of High-dose Meloxicam and Carprofen on Female CD1 Mice.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34920791/)

<a id="ref-20"></a>[<a href="#ref-20">20</a>] [Carprofen Permeation Test through Porcine Ex Vivo Mucous Membranes and Ophthalmic Tissues for Tolerability Assessments: Validation and Histological Study.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33050372/)

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