Claritin is one of the brand names of the Loratadine antihistamine generic medicine.
If you have allergies, then you probably know what Claritin is. But the questions which dog owners have are – can you use Claritin for dogs, and if so, what is the recommended and safe dosage, as well as what are the potential side effects of this popular medicine for allergies in dogs.
Dogs can be prone to various types of allergies, including food, pollen, and insect bites. Claritin works by promoting the blockage of histamines which cause adverse allergic reactions in humans and dogs. It is an over-the-counter drug.
Still, even though you don’t need a prescription for it, before giving your pup Claritin, make sure you talk to your vet about the proper dosage and usage. If the veterinarian has prescribed Claritin for your dog, you should follow the instructions for use to keep your pup safe.
Here is some general information about the usage, dosage, and potential side effects of Claritin for dogs.
When is Claritin used for dogs?
Veterinarians often prescribe Claritin for pups who exhibit signs of allergic reactions of all kinds, be it skin irritations, sneezing, swelling, difficulty breathing, digestive problems, and others.
The drug works by controlling the histamine released by the body, which is the reason for mild to severe allergic reactions.
What is the proper dosage of Claritin for dogs?
As mentioned earlier, you should follow the dosage and usage of Claritin or any other medicament for your dog as prescribed by a veterinarian. Your vet will give you a prescription of the number of days and the proper dosage for your specific dog, and you should stick to these recommendations, giving the dog the medicine for the specified number of days, even if the symptoms seem to be disappearing.
Typically, Claritin for dogs is prescribed at a dosage of 0.2mg per pound of the body weight. This means that a small dog will be prescribed a dosage of about 5mg per day, while a larger breed may need 10mg of Claritin per day.
Possible side effects of Claritin for dogs
Claritin is often the preferred antihistamine prescribed for canines, because unlike other drugs for allergies, such as Benadryl, it doesn’t cause drowsiness and lethargy.
Still, you may notice that your pup is a little more relaxed and tired when you are administering Claritin.
Another possible side effect of Claritin is dryness of the mouth, or some digestive problems, such as diarrhea and vomiting.
In case you suspect that your dog has taken more Claritin than prescribed, or if it shows more severe allergic reactions like difficulty breathing, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.