Tramadol for Dogs – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Alternatives

There are many pharmaceutically prescribed medications on the market today that are administered to both humans and dogs. Some are as simple as allergy medications, whereas others are more complex like pain medications. Either way, dogs are starting to take medications prescribed by vets to combat their ailments. This may not be the best idea, considering some of these prescription pills/liquids carry unwanted side effects with them.

Here, we’re going to give you a run down about the opioid known as Tramadol. By the end, you’ll know what the medication can be used for, what the side effects are, and what alternatives you have at your fingertips.

What is Tramadol & what can it be used for?

Tramadol, as stated before, is a member of the opioid family. This medication automatically raises the serotonin levels in the brain, in turn minimizing the effects pain has on the body. With high levels of serotonin, your dog will be pain-free, calm, and relaxed.

Though you may associate Tramadol as a dangerous and addictive medication for humans, we assure you it does not have the same effect on dogs.

Tramadol can be used to treat all types of pain in dogs. Generally speaking, this opioid helps dogs combat ailments like osteoarthritis, cancer, and lameness associated with hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also aid in the recovery process after post-operative surgery and provide relief from intervertebral disc disease.

What is the correct dosage to administer to my dog?

Like most human prescription medications, Tramadol must be prescribed by your veterinarian for your dog to take it. Do not give your dog your own prescription pain pills if you have any at home.

Tramadol comes in 50 mg tablets, and each dosage is carefully constructed to match your dog’s needs by their vet. For instance, a dog with acute pain will get a different dosage than a dog with chronic pain, even if they weigh the same amount.

Are there side effects associated with Tramadol?

When administering Tramadol to your dog, you have to keep in mind that potential side effects may start to appear. As this is a new medication you’d be giving your dog, you must be aware of the most common adverse reactions, even though many dogs tend to tolerate the treatment method very well.

The following is a list of possible side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Drowsiness
• Tremors
• Dizziness
• Anxiety

Keep in mind, each dog may or may not experience these side effects. If they do, the severity may range.

Is there an alternative I can turn to?

Tramadol is typically prescribed to dogs that are in temporary, acute, or chronic pain. However, there is an alternative: CBD oil.

CBD oil is a natural anti-inflammatory medication. Most instances of pain have underlying causes, including but not limited to high amounts of inflammation somewhere in the body. CBD oil can be administered to your dog to target that inflammation and ease a majority of your dog’s pain. This way, their mobility can improve at the same time as their way of life.

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