Introduction
Allergies in dogs can cause uncomfortable symptoms like itchy skin, watery eyes and constant scratching. Antihistamines like Zyrtec and Benadryl can help provide relief by blocking histamines that cause allergic reactions. This article discusses whether you can give your dog Zyrtec in the morning and Benadryl at night, recommended dosages for each medication, treatment duration, monitoring your dog and potential side effects. We’ll also touch on some alternative antihistamine options for dogs.
Zyrtec for Dogs
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine that is commonly used in dogs for treating allergies, itchy skin, and hives. It blocks the effects of histamine, which is released by the body during an allergic reaction. Zyrtec is approved for dogs over 12 months old (1).
The typical dosage of Zyrtec for dogs is 0.5-1 mg per pound, given once or twice daily. For example, a 20 pound dog would take 10-20 mg per day. Zyrtec comes in 5mg and 10mg tablets that can be split to achieve the proper dose. It begins working within 1-2 hours and lasts for 24 hours (1).
Zyrtec is generally well tolerated in dogs. Potential side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. These effects are mild in most dogs, but Zyrtec should be discontinued if they are severe or persistent (2).
Overall, Zyrtec is an effective and safe antihistamine option for dogs with allergies when used at the proper dosage under veterinary supervision.
(1) https://wagwalking.com/treatment/zyrtec-for-dogs-1
(2) https://fairhavenvet.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Antihistamine-Use-Canine.pdf
Benadryl for Dogs
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine that veterinarians commonly recommend for dogs. It helps block the histamine response and relieve symptoms of allergies, insect bites, and other reactions. The standard dosage for dogs is 1 mg per pound, given 2-3 times a day as needed (1).
Benadryl is approved by the FDA for use in dogs for the treatment of insect bites and stings. It can help relieve symptoms like itchiness, hives, swelling, and sneezing. However, it does not treat the underlying cause of the allergy (2).
Some of the potential side effects of Benadryl in dogs include sedation, vomiting, and urinary retention. It should not be used in dogs with glaucoma, prostate problems, or cardiovascular disease without veterinary approval. Puppies and pregnant dogs may be more sensitive to side effects (3).
Owners should consult their veterinarian before giving Benadryl to make sure it is appropriate. The dosage may need to be adjusted based on factors like the dog’s age, medical conditions, and other medications (4). Monitoring the dog and discontinuing use if negative reactions occur is also recommended.
(1) https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/can-i-give-my-dog-benadryl-and-if-so-how-much
(2) https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/is-benadryl-safe-for-dogs/
(3) https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/diphenhydramine-benadryl
(4) https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/diphenhydramine-benadryl-for-dogs
Can They Be Given Together?
Yes, Zyrtec and Benadryl can be safely given together to dogs. According to veterinarians, antihistamines like Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are often prescribed together for the treatment of allergies in dogs. The key is to avoid giving two medications that contain the same active ingredient. For example, you don’t want to give a pet Zyrtec-D and Benadryl-D at the same time, since both contain an added decongestant.
Combining Zyrtec and Benadryl is considered safe as long as the proper dosages are given for your dog’s weight. There should not be any dangerous drug interactions or additive side effects if the correct dosages are administered. As with any medication, it’s a good idea to monitor your dog for any potential side effects like excessive sedation. But overall, vets agree that taking Zyrtec and Benadryl together is fine for dogs with severe allergies that require multiple types of antihistamines for relief.
Sources:
Can I give my dog Benadryl and Zyrtec together for severe …
Recommended Dosage Schedule
The recommended dosage schedule for giving your dog both Zyrtec and Benadryl is:
- Zyrtec in the morning: 1 mg per pound of body weight, given once a day. So a 50 lb dog would get 50 mg of Zyrtec each morning.
- Benadryl at night: 2-4 mg per kg body weight, given every 8-12 hours. For a 50 lb (22 kg) dog, the dosage would be 44-88 mg of Benadryl every 8-12 hours.
It’s best to give Zyrtec in the morning since it is longer acting. Benadryl can make dogs drowsy, so giving it at night helps avoid daytime sleepiness. Always follow your vet’s specific dosing recommendations. Monitor for side effects like excessive sedation when giving these medications together.
Sources:
https://www.kingsdale.com/antihistamines-for-dogs-when-to-use-them-dosage-schedules-and-more
https://bpah.net/downloads/BPAH-AntihistamineTherapy.pdf
Duration of Treatment
It is generally considered safe to give a combination of Zyrtec and Benadryl to dogs for a short duration of 3-5 days. Long-term daily use of these medications together is not recommended as it can cause excessive drowsiness and other side effects. Zyrtec and Benadryl provide symptom relief for allergies and reactions, but do not treat the underlying cause. Seeking diagnosis and treatment from a veterinarian is advised for continuing allergy problems in dogs. Treatment may then include medications, allergen avoidance, or immunotherapy. The veterinarian can provide guidance on any longer-term medication use if needed.
According to veterinarians, prolonged use of antihistamines like Zyrtec and Benadryl can potentially cause liver problems in dogs. It’s important to follow label instructions and not exceed safe dosages. Giving both medications together increases the antihistamine load on your dog’s system, so longer-term use should only be under veterinary supervision to monitor for adverse effects.
In most cases, 3-5 days is sufficient for short-term relief when giving a combination of Zyrtec and Benadryl. Consult your veterinarian before exceeding this duration of treatment. They can determine if continued use of these medications is appropriate based on your dog’s specific condition and health status.
Monitoring Your Dog
When giving your dog antihistamines like Zyrtec and Benadryl, it’s important to monitor them for potential side effects. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, some signs to look out for include:
– Increased sedation or sleepiness (cite: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cetirizine)
– Changes in behavior such as agitation or restlessness
– Vomiting or diarrhea
– Loss of appetite or not eating
– Increased thirst and urination
If you notice any of these signs or other unusual behavior in your dog after starting antihistamines, discontinue their use and contact your veterinarian. It’s recommended to monitor your dog closely for the first few days on Zyrtec or Benadryl to ensure they tolerate it well.
You should also let your vet know if symptoms don’t seem to be improving with the antihistamine treatment, as they may need a medication adjustment or different treatment option. Routine vet visits can help determine if the dosage and medication plan is working effectively for your dog’s allergies.
While Zyrtec and Benadryl are typically safe for dogs when used correctly, it’s important to monitor for side effects and stay in touch with your vet during treatment. This can help ensure your dog’s health and comfort while managing their allergies.
Other Antihistamines
In addition to Zyrtec and Benadryl, there are some other antihistamines that can be used in dogs to provide allergy relief. These include:
Hydroxyzine (Atarax) – This antihistamine can help relieve itching and skin allergies in dogs. The usual dosage is 1-2 mg per pound given 2-3 times daily.1
Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) – This H1 blocker can provide relief from allergies and symptoms like itching and sneezing in dogs. The dosage is 2-4 mg per dog 2-3 times a day.2
These alternative antihistamines can provide similar allergy relief as Zyrtec and Benadryl in dogs. However, always consult your veterinarian before giving any new medication, including antihistamines, to your dog.
When to Avoid These Medications
There are some situations where it is not recommended to give your dog Zyrtec or Benadryl:
- If your dog is pregnant or nursing, you should avoid giving antihistamines unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. These medications can cross the placenta and potentially cause problems for the developing puppies. They may also be excreted into the mother’s milk and impact nursing puppies (vcahospitals.com).
- Dogs with glaucoma should not be given antihistamines, as they can potentially increase intraocular pressure (kingsdale.com).
- Dogs with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or hyperthyroidism should use antihistamines cautiously, as they may exacerbate these conditions (vcahospitals.com).
- Dogs with liver or kidney disease may not be able to metabolize these medications normally. Your vet can advise you on appropriate dosing for your dog if they have liver or kidney issues (webmd.com).
- Dogs with seizures or a history of seizures should avoid antihistamines, as they may lower the seizure threshold.
Consult your veterinarian before giving any medication if your dog has pre-existing medical conditions. They can help determine if antihistamines are appropriate and provide dosage guidelines tailored to your dog’s health status.
Conclusion
In summary, Zyrtec and Benadryl can both be safely given to dogs for treating allergy symptoms, when used correctly under veterinary guidance. Zyrtec is usually given once a day, while Benadryl can be given twice daily 12 hours apart. The dosage will depend on your dog’s weight and health status. Monitor for side effects like sedation or lack of appetite. Avoid giving these medications together long term without veterinary supervision. Focus on identifying and avoiding allergy triggers as well. With short term, proper use of these antihistamines, you can provide your dog relief and comfort during allergy flare ups.