Is Meloxicam (Mobic) Safe for Cats?
Why it’s a problem
Cats clear meloxicam very slowly, so the drug accumulates and damages the kidneys and stomach lining. In some countries veterinary use in cats is limited to a single dose given by a vet, and chronic unsupervised dosing has been repeatedly linked to fatal kidney failure. Human Mobic tablets are far stronger than anything a cat could safely receive.
How to keep your pet safe
Never give a cat meloxicam of any kind unless a veterinarian has prescribed it specifically for that cat and explained the strict limits. Keep Mobic and other NSAIDs stored where a cat cannot chew into them.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting (sometimes with blood), drooling, refusal to eat, belly pain, hiding, extreme lethargy; later signs include weakness, dehydration, and little or no urine from kidney failure.
When to call the vet
Contact a veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately after any suspected exposure. Cats poisoned by NSAIDs can crash quickly, and early intervention with fluids offers the best chance.
Common questions
My cat licked a drop of my dog’s meloxicam — should I worry?
Yes, call a vet or pet poison hotline now. Cats are so sensitive to meloxicam that even small amounts have caused fatal kidney failure, so any exposure deserves immediate advice.
Why do vets sometimes use meloxicam in cats if it is toxic?
In tightly controlled, usually single doses prescribed by a vet, the benefit can outweigh the risk. That is a calculation only a veterinarian can make — never replicate it at home.
How would I notice meloxicam kidney damage in my cat?
Watch for refusal to eat, vomiting, unusual thirst or lack of thirst, hiding, and very little urine. By the time these signs appear, damage may be advanced, which is why prevention and quick calls matter.
More medications hazards for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).