Aspirin

Major Uses

Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory pain reliever used to treat pain in most species including dogs, cats, horses, and rabbits. Aspirin is also used to the reduce the risk of blood clots in animals with heart disease or any condition that may cause an animal to be more susceptible to inappropriate clotting.

Common Precautions

The most common side effect associated with Aspirin is mild stomach upset. Nausea and vomiting can occur. Animals with bleeding ulcers should not take Aspirin. Aspirin should not be used in conjunction with cortisone-type medications unless recommended by a veterinarian. Because Aspirin thins the blood, it should not be used for at least one week prior to any surgical procedure. Aspirin should not be given to animals that are in the last stages of pregnancy.

Aspirin should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. Emergency veterinary care should be sought if an animal experiences any unusual symptoms.

Storage

Aspirin tablets should be stored in a tight, moisture resistant container.

Administration

Aspirin is available in tablet form.

A typical dose range for Aspirin in dogs is 25mg/kg PO q8h. Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.