Just like people, dogs get allergies, too. Allergies in dogs can show up as skin problems, breathing issues, or even tummy troubles. Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction.
Loratadine is one type of antihistamine that may be used for allergy relief in dogs. It’s often considered a good option because it tends to cause fewer side effects than some other antihistamines.
However, it’s really important to talk to your vet before giving your dog loratadine or any other medication. They can help you determine the right dosage and make sure it’s safe for your furry friend.
What is loratadine and how does it work?
Loratadine is an antihistamine medication. You can buy it over the counter under the brand name Claritin.
Loratadine works by blocking histamine receptors in the body, which are activated during allergic reactions. When your body senses an allergen, it releases histamine, which causes itching, sneezing, and other symptoms.
It’s important to know that allergies in dogs aren’t only caused by histamine. That’s why loratadine and other antihistamines don’t work for every dog with allergies.
What are the benefits of loratadine for dogs?
Loratadine can help dogs manage seasonal allergies to pollen, grasses, and weeds. It can also help dogs with environmental allergies to things like dust mites and mold. Vets sometimes use loratadine to treat type-1 hypersensitivity reactions, like those resulting from bee stings.
One of the great things about antihistamines like loratadine is that you can safely use them with other allergy medications, such as Apoquel® and Atopica®. In some cases, vets will prescribe loratadine with corticosteroids, as it can allow them to reduce the steroid dosage.
Finally, test tube studies suggest loratadine may help dogs with mast cell tumors, but more research is needed.
Risks and Side Effects of Loratadine for Dogs
As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of when giving loratadine to your dog.
Common Side Effects
Some of the more common side effects of loratadine in dogs include:
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sedation or drowsiness
It’s also worth noting that higher doses of loratadine can sometimes cause what’s known as paradoxical reactions, meaning the opposite of what you’d expect.
Serious Risks
While generally safe, there are some serious risks associated with loratadine use in dogs:
- Anaphylaxis: Although rare, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is possible.
- Overdose: Overdosing on loratadine can be dangerous, leading to toxicity and potentially fatal consequences. If your dog has ingested Claritin-D, symptoms of pseudoephedrine side effects can appear in as little as 30 to 60 minutes.
- Drug Interactions: Loratadine can interact with other medications, causing unexpected and potentially harmful side effects.
Loratadine products to avoid
Not all loratadine products are safe for dogs. Some Claritin products, for example, have extra ingredients that could be dangerous.
Pay special attention to whether the product contains pseudoephedrine. Never give your dog Claritin-D, as pseudoephedrine is toxic to dogs.
You should also check the label for contaminants like xylitol and propylene glycol, both of which are poisonous to dogs.
How do I give my dog loratadine?
Always talk to your vet before giving your dog any medication. They can give you the best advice about whether loratadine is right for your pup, and how much to give.
The typical dose of loratadine for dogs is 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight every 24 hours. That’s equal to about 0.12 mg/lb to 0.22 mg/lb.
For example, a 20-pound dachshund could take a 4 mg loratadine tablet. A 60-pound German Shepherd might take 12 mg.
Make sure you follow your veterinarian’s instructions very carefully. They will know the right dose and frequency for your dog’s specific needs.
Tips and Precautions for Using Loratadine
It’s crucial to understand when NOT to give your dog loratadine. For example, it’s unsafe for pregnant or nursing dogs. It’s also not recommended for dogs with certain health conditions like liver or kidney disease or glaucoma. And it can interact negatively with other medications, so be sure your vet knows everything your dog is taking.
Closely monitor your dog for any changes after starting loratadine, and report anything unusual to your vet. Watch out for potential side effects and contact your vet immediately if you notice them.
Always double-check the product label to make sure loratadine is the ONLY active ingredient. Don’t give your dog products that combine loratadine with decongestants or other potentially harmful ingredients.
Wrapping Up
Loratadine can be a useful tool for managing allergy symptoms in dogs by blocking histamine and providing some relief from itching, sneezing, and runny eyes.
However, loratadine isn’t a magic bullet for chronic allergies. Always talk with your veterinarian before giving your dog loratadine. Your vet can determine if loratadine is right for your dog and help you figure out the correct dosage.
Using loratadine responsibly, under the guidance of your veterinarian, can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and help them enjoy their days without constant itching and discomfort.