Tramadol is an opioid analgesic to treat dogs who have gone through surgery, experience symptoms of pain, or suffer from osteoarthritis. It is one of the few pain-relieving medicines prescribed to both humans and dogs.
Tramadol works similarly, like morphine. It inhibits the reuptake of chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, reducing pain and causing a feeling of euphoria.
Tramadol is Schedule Iv controlled substance under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). It means that the drug possesses a high risk of addiction and abuse among humans. Pet owners may misuse their dogs’ medications. Veterinarians keep an eye for the sign of misuse by pet owners.
Follow the instructions of veterinarians carefully while using Tramadol for dogs. An overdose of medication can be fatal, and abruptly stopping the drug can cause withdrawal symptoms in a pet.
How is Tramadol used for dogs?
Tramadol helps treat mild to moderate pain. Doctors may combine it with other opioids to treat more severe pain in dogs. It is a standard prescription for dogs after surgery or invasive medical procedures.
Tramadol is also useful to treat other conditions that cause acute pain, such as severe injuries. Veterinarians also prescribe Tramadol for chronic pain such as cancer or osteoarthritis.
Tramadol effects are visible after several weeks of use in the treatment of chronic pain, and there is a high chance that dogs may develop a tolerance for the drug. For reducing tolerance, Veterinarians prescribe other medications with Tramadol.
Is Tramadol safe for dogs?
Tramadol for dogs is a prescription medication. It is safe for use if prescribed by a health care expert.
There are chances of overdose that may be life-threatening. Strictly follow the dosage regime prescribed by a doctor for safe administration among pets. Common symptoms of Tramadol overdose include weakness, drowsiness, shallow breathing, fainting, or coma.
Tramadol withdrawal symptoms are also visible in dogs. Do not abruptly stop giving the medication to your pet. Consult a doctor and gradually taper the doses of Tramadol to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Tramadol withdrawal symptoms for dogs include anxiety, nausea, diarrhea, tremors, and breathing problems.
Tramadol dosage for dogs
The usual dosage to treat pain in dogs is 0.45 mg to 1.8 mg per pound of bodyweight, given every 8 to 12 hours as needed. For treating chronic pain, give the same dose every 6 hours.
Tramadol comes in 50mg tablets. Do not crush the tablet before administration. Take help from a veterinarian to know the proper method of dose measurement.
Give the tablets with enough water to swallow them. A dog can take Tramadol with or without food as directed.
Tramadol side effects for dogs
Like humans, dogs also experience side effects while taking medications. The most frequent side effect of Tramadol for dogs is sedation. Other side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach upset
- Loss of appetite
- Tremors
- Seizures
Alternative methods of pain management
The risk of overdose and dependence on Tramadol is high; that is why the pet owners should try alternative treatment methods instead of Tramadol. Pet owners should seek safer options for pain management of dogs.
Although Tramadol is safe for acute pain, it is not the best choice for chronic pain. Chronic pain treatment with Tramadol possesses a high risk of tolerance. Explore safer and natural alternatives for the pets who need to take long term pain medication.
One of the most popular treatment substitutes is CBD oil. CBD oil is a safe, natural supplement for dogs. It is useful as an anti-inflammatory agent for pain management in dogs. CBD oil is a more reliable and effective way to help the body cope better and faster from inflammation and pain. It stimulates the ECS (endocannabinoid system) to control prostaglandin levels and help to establish chemical balance. The state of chemical balance fights inflammatory responses that cause swelling and pain in the affected area.
Some other safer alternatives to Tramadol include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Acupuncture
- Physical therapy
- Herbal therapy
Is Tramadol for dogs the same as Tramadol for humans?
Tramadol for dogs and humans is the same in many ways. But the dosage and formulations of medication differ. Many people report that they use their pets’ medication or give their medication to the dog. However, it is not advisable. There may be different inactive ingredients in humans and dogs pills.
Several pet owners take their dog’s Tramadol for abusing, which is illegal. Although Tramadol could be the same for dogs and humans, under no circumstances, it is recommendable for humans to take their pet’s medication.
