Cetirizine Dosage Chart for Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More

Cetirizine, or Zyrtec, is a common over the counter antihistamine found in most medicine cabinets. It’s used to treat a variety of allergy symptoms in humans, leading many to wonder if it can help their canine friends with allergies as well.

While Cetirizine is safe for use in dogs, there are many details you need to be aware of before offering it to your canine companion. Let’s discuss everything you need to know about Cetirizine for dogs, ranging from safe dosing to potential side effects.

Let’s get started!

What Is Cetirizine?

Cetirizine is popular antihistamine that is most commonly known as Zyrtec. It works by blocking the antihistamine receptors in the body, ultimately minimizing the body’s allergic response to an allergen.

Cetirizine is designed to manage allergies without the drowsy side effects that other antihistamines cause. For this reason, it is a common go to for people with chronic seasonal allergies.

Is Cetirizine (Zyrtec) Safe For Dogs?

Cetirizine is safe for dogs when it is used as directed by your veterinarian. It can be effective in managing minor allergy symptoms such as irritated bug bites, itchy skin, and even mild hives.

Many vets believe that Cetirizine is one of the most effective antihistamines that we can prescribe our dogs. It is often favored over Benadryl when managing chronic allergies, as it is believed to offer better relief from inflammation. Cetirizine is commonly prescribed to dogs with atopic dermatitis for this reason.

Why Do Dogs Take Cetirizine?

As we discussed above, Cetirizine is often used to manage the symptoms that accompany seasonal allergies in dogs. Here are a few of the symptoms that Cetirizine can help to manage in our canine friends:

• Itchy skin
• Mild hives
• Skin redness
• Irritated insect bites/stings
• Watery eyes
• Nasal discharge
• Sneezing

We should mention that while Cetirizine is effective in managing mild allergy symptoms in dogs, it is not ideal for severe allergic reactions or anaphylactic reactions. If your dog is experiencing facial swelling, severe and sudden hives, GI upset, or changes in breathing, you should seek veterinary care immediately.

How Do I Give My Dog Cetirizine?

Cetirizine, or Zyrtec, can be found in either pill or liquid form. Your vet may have their own version of Cetirizine in their hospital, but it is typically easy to get over the counter. Just be sure that you are purchasing standard Zyrtec and not Zyrtec-D. Zyrtec-D contains a powerful decongestant that is toxic to dogs.

It does not have to be given with food, but if your pup ever vomits soon after taking it, then you can offer it with a meal. Cetirizine will take effect within one to two hours of administration.

What Is The Cetirizine (Zyrtec) Dose For Dogs?

You should always speak with your vet before giving your dog Cetirizine. Your vet can offer an appropriate dose based on your dog’s size and allergy symptoms. However, there is a dosing range that most veterinarians follow.

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is often given once every 24 hours for dogs with atopic dermatitis, and once every 12 hours for dogs with general allergy symptoms. Cetirizine can be found over the counter in 5 to 10 milligram tablets.

You can also find liquid Zyrtec for children over the counter, and it is typically 1mg/ml. Liquid Cetirizine can be easier to dose for small dogs, so if your little one is under 10 pounds, Zyrtec for children may be ideal.

We should mention again that you should never give your dog Zyrtec-D, or any form of Cetirizine that contains an additive for congestion. Human decongestants are highly toxic to dogs.

Are There Side Effects With Cetirizine In Dogs?

Cetirizine side effects are not common with use in dogs. Vomiting and increased salivation can occur in some cases, but this is typically when the medication is given on an empty stomach. Be sure to give your dog’s Cetirizine dose with food if they ever struggle with nausea or vomiting after taking the medication.

Cetirizine Risks In Dogs To Be Aware Of

Now that you are aware of the details surrounding Cetirizine use in dogs, it’s time to list a few risks that you should be aware of when offering your pup this medication.

As we mentioned above, it is essential to avoid giving your dog Cetirizine with any additives. The most common form of Cetirizine with an additive is Zyrtec-D, and this medication contains a human decongestant that is highly toxic to dogs. Be sure to only purchase standard Cetirizine when it is being used in your canine friend.

It’s best to speak with your vet before giving your dog Cetirizine if they have a seizure disorder, cardiac disease, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disease, or glaucoma. You should also keep Cetirizine away from dogs that are currently taking other medications, as this could lead to dangerous drug interactions.

Your vet can offer guidance on how to administer Cetirizine safely if your pup falls into any of the categories we listed above.

Final Thoughts

Cetirizine is safe for use in dogs when following the guidance of your veterinarian. Be sure to review the information we discussed above on safe Cetirizine use, and you can better understand how this antihistamine can help your beloved pup with allergies!

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