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Zyrtec (generic name cetirizine) is an antihistamine medication prescribed by veterinarians for the treatment of allergies in pets [1]. It is known as a second-generation antihistamine, useful for reducing allergic symptoms like itchy skin, swelling, irritation, coughing, or sneezing caused by atopic dermatitis in dogs and cats [1, 2].
It can also be administered for the treatment of allergic reactions triggered by a bee sting, external allergens like dust mites and pollen, and food allergy-induced diarrhea [10].
Some breeds including the Irish Setter, Dalmatian, Lhasa Apso, Golden Retriever, Terriers, Old English Sheepdog, and Bulldogs are more likely to suffer from allergic dermatitis [2]. These dogs may be given cetirizine pills to ease their severe itching and skin irritation. As compared to other antihistamines, such as Benadryl, dogs treated with Zyrtec exhibit a higher response rate [8].
Quick Information |
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 Zyrtec for Dogs |
Generic name: Cetirizine
Brand name: Zyrtec® [1] Type: Second generation H1 receptor blocker [1] Active Ingredients: Cetirizine hydrochloride [3] Is it approved by FDA: No [1] Availability: Prescription medication, extra-label drug sold over the counter [1] Who can take it: Dogs, cats, humans [4] Forms: 5 mg and 10 mg tablets, flavored pills, oral syrup [1, 5] Cost: About $0.33 (per 10 mg tablet) |
Scientific studies have shown that Zyrtec is moderately effective and well tolerated in dogs with allergic skin conditions [4, 7]. However, do not give your dog Zyrtec-D, a decongestant containing pseudoephedrine as one of the active ingredients since it is toxic to dogs [9].
Histamine is an organic compound created by the dog’s immune system as part of an allergic response. It recognizes and binds to H1 and H2 histamine receptors, causing small blood vessels to expand thereby triggering symptoms like swelling and itching. Zyrtec, being an H1 receptor blocker, inhibits the effect of histamine on H1 receptors and helps in preventing the allergic symptoms [1, 6].
Give Zyrtec to your dog only after consulting a licensed vet. Since the exact dosage depends on your pet’s weight and the severity of its symptoms, be sure to follow the drug regimen as prescribed by the veterinarian.
As tablets, Cetirizine can be given by mouth with or without food [7]. The normal dosage is 1 mg of Zyrtec per kg (0.5 mg/lb) of your dog’s weight, given orally once or twice per day [1, 6]. Make sure to complete the full course of the medication unless otherwise instructed by the vet.
If you have forgotten to give a dose, give it as soon as possible. However, if it is time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose altogether. Make sure that you never give two doses at the same time.
Rare instances of heavy sedation or excessive drowsiness have been observed in smaller dogs with long-term use of high amounts of Zyrtec [6, 9]. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Dogs on Zyrtec often exhibit the following side effects:
Contact your vet immediately, if any of these side effects occur in your dog.
Always make sure to inform the vet about your pet’s medical history, as well as any medications you might already be giving it. Zyrtec is usually not recommended if:
