Allergies are unpleasant for every species. If you’ve mistakenly thought that allergies are specific to humans, then your dog is probably allergy-free. But if you’ve noticed your dog is itchy, prone to licking or chewing their feet, or breaking out in hives, then it’s a safe bet they’ve got allergies. Luckily, there are allergy medications out there that are safe for your dog. Zyrtec is readily available and safe for your dog.
Yes, Zyrtec is considered a safe medication for your dog. Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine that is safely tolerated in dogs and used to treat allergic skin conditions.
Although there haven’t been very many veterinary studies done on its effect on dogs, there hasn’t been any indication that it’s dangerous for dogs.
It should be avoided in dogs with liver disease, however, to avoid taxing the already weakened or damaged organ.
When accidentally ingested by dogs and cats, antihistamine poisoning can result in clinical signs of severe agitation, lethargy, sedation, aggression, abnormal heart rate, abnormal blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, inappetance, seizures, respiratory depression, and even death.
Zyrtec Toxicity in Dogs
When a dog accidentally ingests Zyrtec, they may be receiving a dose that’s too high for their size and weight. This can lead to medication toxicity. Even a medicine that seems to be fairly safe for both humans and pets can cause poisoning in doses that are too large.
The most common signs of toxicity of Zyrtec in a dog includes:
If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, then call the vet immediately. Or if you know for certain your dog has swallowed some Zyrtec, then try to see how much he’s swallowed and then call the vet right away. Take the product packaging with you to the vet, too. This could be a medical emergency.
Symptoms of Antihistamines Poisoning in Dogs
When dogs overdose on antihistamines, symptoms depend on the quantity consumed. Symptoms of antihistamine poisoning in dogs include:
Types
It is important to know the type of antihistamine your dog ingested and the ingredients contained in combination with the particular medication. Differential diagnoses of antihistamine poisoning in dogs include:
How Much Zyrtec Can I Give My Dog?
It’s very hard to overdose a dog on an antihistamine, which is partly why it’s so safe. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t administer the drug with caution when dosing your dog. There are different recommended doses depending on what you’re treating. Itchy skin will require a different dose of antihistamine than an allergic reaction to a bee sting, for example.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with allergies. It’s most commonly triggered by environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites. You’ll give your dog anywhere from 5 to 10 mg once per day. The amount will depend on your dog’s size and how bad their dermatitis is. You should consult with your vet before you freely dose your dog with an amount you think is safe.
Allergic dermatitis presents from allergic reactions to things like fleas. It usually comes about during exposure to an allergen and disappears when that allergen is removed. You can give 2.27 mg/lb every 24 hours and no more often than that. Your vet might think a higher or lower dose is more appropriate in your dog’s specific case, so you should have a conversation with them about what will work best for your dog. Some vets will recommend more frequent dosing at 2.27mg/lb every 12 hours, but again, this depends on how severe your dog’s case is.
Typical Dog Zyrtec Dosages:
The dosages may need to be higher if your dog’s allergies are significant. However, older dogs might not do well with a higher dose, so your vet might recommend additional medications instead of a larger or more frequent dose.
FAQ
How much Zyrtec is toxic to dogs?
Can Zyrtec make a dog sick?
It sounds strange, but pets can be allergic to allergy medications, including Zyrtec. Tell your vet if your pet’s allergy symptoms worsen or if they have signs of anaphylaxis like trouble breathing or swelling of the face. Symptoms of a severe drug reaction include: Hives.
How much Zyrtec can I give my 50 pound dog?
Can you overdose a dog on antihistamines?