Zyrtec, commonly known as Cetirizine, is an antihistamine typically used for dog allergies, especially for skin allergies such as constant itching, scratching, runny eyes, and runny nose. The Zyrtec Cetirizine helps to control histamine-mediated pruritus by reducing the amount of histamine in the body. However, before giving the medicine to your dog, you need to know how much Zyrtec for dogs? What is the safe dosage of Cetirizine, its benefits and side effects?
Usually, Cetirizine is human medicine, but there is no equivalent drug on the Veterinary side, so many veterinarians prescribe the medication over the counter for dogs and cats.
How much Zyrtec for Dogs?
The ideal and safe amount of Zyrtec (Cetirizine) depends on the dog body weight and health condition, The safe dosage of Zyrtec for dogs is 0.5-1mg/kg or 0.5-1mg/2lbs once or twice daily or on your vet prescription. Please note that puppies weighing less than 10 pounds should not take more than 4-5 mg of Zyrtec. Dogs weighing 15-60 lbs do not exceed more than 10 mg. Giants dog breeds and dogs weight more than 60 lbs can take 15-20mg of cetirizine.
Before buying the drug for your puppy, make sure to read the label carefully and don’t give or buy the product that contains toxic ingredients for dogs. Always buy the medicine with your vet recommendation only for safe use.
Zyrtec cetirizine dosage for Dogs:
| Dog weight in Kg | Dog weight in lbs | Zyretec Cetrizine dosage | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less then 5 kg | Less than 10lbs | 4-5mg | Once Daily |
| 6-20 kg | 13-22 lbs | 6-10 mg | Once or Twice daily |
| 21-30 kg | 46-66lbs | 10 mg | Once or Twice daily |
| 31- 50 kg | 68-110 lbs | 15-20mg | Once or Twice daily |
| 50-60kg | 110-132 lbs | 15-20mg | Once or Twice daily |
| Above 60kg | Above 132 lbs | 20 mg | Once or Twice daily |
Remember your vet can better decide the correct and safe dosage of the drug for your pet. The best and secure idea for offering any canine medication is with your vet advice only.
You can continue the treatment for 2- 3 weeks. If you don’t notice any improvement or any side effects, stop the medication and contact your vet for gentle advice.
Can I give my dog Cetirizine for Allergies?
Yes, you can give a safe dosage of Cetirizinee to your dog. Cetirizine is a commonly used antihistamine human medication. Veterinarians often prescribe Cetirizine for dogs allergies such as constant itching, scratching and runny eyes, runny nose. However, choosing the wrong product that contains toxic ingredients and overdosing is harmful and can lead your puppy to severe health issues.
Benefits of Zyrtec Cetirizine for Dogs:
- Helps in dogs Atopic Dermatitis or Allergic Dermatitis.
- Lowering the amount of Histamine and helps in relieving skin allergies such as constant itching and scratching.
- Helps in canine runny eyes, runny nose.
- It helps to relieve flea and insects bite Allergies.
- Helps in Food Allergies.
- Helps in dogs Mange (Mites).
- Relieve Hotspots on Canines.
Side effects of Zyrtec cetirizine for Dogs:
Overdosing or choosing the wrong product, or giving to dogs that should not take cetirizine can cause your puppy’s below-mentioned side effects.
- Vomiting and diarrhea.
- Drooling.
- Aggression.
- Agitation.
- Restlessness.
- Difficulty in breathing.
- Lack of Appetite.
- Muscle Tremors.
Which dogs should not take Zyrtec Cetirizine?
The ideal safe dosage of Zyrtec is not harmful; however, if your canine is going through the below health condition, then not give cetirizine without your vet prescription.
- Newborn Puppies.
- Pregnant Dogs.
- Nursing Dogs.
- Dogs suffering from Glaucoma.
- Dogs having seizures.
- Pet suffering from kidney liver or Heart disease.
- Dogs having breathing problems.
- Dogs with hypersensitivity to Antihistamines.
- Dogs using other Medications. (Give with your vet advice Only)
How long does it take Zyrtec to work in Dogs?
After taking the antihistamine (Zyrtec cetirizine), it starts to affect your dog body within 1 to 2 hours. You may not notice any impact quickly because the medicine starts its effects slowly and gradually. Your puppy may fully recover after taking the prescribed dose for the recommended duration.
How to give Zyrtec cetirizine to Dogs?
- The very first thing you should keep in mind is don’t overdose. It is dangerous.
- Introduce the drug in moderation. Offer less; if your pup tolerates the medicine well, gradually increase to the safe dosage.
- If you notice any reaction or side effect, stop the medication and contact your vet immediately.
- If your canine is currently taking another antihistamine, antibiotics or other medicine, first confirm with your vet.
- Some medicines may react with others and can lead your canine to poisoning effects.
- Continue the medicine for a prescribed time. If the symptoms still exist do not exceed the medicine duration by yourself, contact your vet for a piece of gentle Advice.
Conclusion: Cetirizine For Dogs
If you are looking for a safe anti-histamine medication to give to your dog, Cetirizine is the best option. However, there are several things that must be considered before giving this drug without consulting with your vet first. First, read the label carefully and make sure it contains ingredients that are safe for dogs only.
Never buy products containing toxic substances or other drugs that can lead to severe health issues in puppies if given an overdose of medicine.
Always consult with your veterinarian about which product is right for your pup before buying any medications so they can help you find one appropriate for their age and weight as well.
FAQ:
Is Zyrtec good for dog Allergies?
Yes Zyrtec is an antihistamine OTC drug mainly used for dogs allergie ssuch as such as constant itching, scratching and runny eyes, runny nose. Zyetec is good for dog allergies untill you offer it in the safedosage.overdosing is toxic and can cause severe side effects in your furry friend.
Can I give my dog OTC Zyrtec?
Yes, you can give OTC Zyrtec to your dog in a safe and ideal dose. This antihistamine will help your canine in specific allergies such as skin allergies, runny nose and watery eyes. Do not overdose; drug overdosing is dangerous and can lead your lovely puppy to a severe health issue. Only choose a safe product for your canine and avoid the product that contains toxic ingredients for dogs.
Will a Zyrtec hurt my dog?
A safe dose of Zyrtec will help your dog. However, overdosing or giving the drug in the wrong way will hurt your dog and lead to complicated health issues. To prevent your canine from being hurt, please follow the safety guidelines and offer only a safe amount of the cetirizine to your puppy. Make sure you choose the right product for your pooch. Selecting the wrong products that contain toxic ingredients may harm your puppy.
Which is better for dog allergies Claritin or Zyrtec?
Claritin and Zyrtec both are Antihistamines drugs used as OTC for dogs allergies. Both of the drugs works good in dogs allergies when offered in a safe amount. However, Claritin is considered better for minor allergies, but vets often recommend Zyrtec for severe allergies.
Can dogs take Zyrtec and Benadryl together?
Zyrtec cetirizine and Benadryl Diphenhydramine are Antihistamines drugs commonly used for dogs allergies such as skin allergies, watery eyes and runny nose. Using both Zyrtec and Benadryl together is not recommended for dogs because there is a chance of Antihistamines overdosing in the body that may hurt your dog. However, if your vets prescribe both at a time, then follow your vet advice accordingly.
