Carprofen (Rimadyl) for Dogs: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Warnings
Vet-reviewed by Veterinary Reviewer, DVM · Last reviewed June 2026
What is carprofen used for in dogs?
Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever. Vets commonly prescribe it for osteoarthritis and other joint pain, and for post-surgical pain control. It is COX-2-preferential, meaning it targets inflammation while sparing more of the protective functions that broader NSAIDs disrupt — but no NSAID is risk-free.
How is carprofen dosed?
The dose is based on your dog’s weight and condition and is set by your veterinarian. Follow the prescription label exactly. It comes as flavored chewable tablets, caplets, and an injectable form used in clinics. Giving it with food can reduce stomach upset.
What are the side effects of carprofen?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal: vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. Rare but serious reactions involve the liver — an unpredictable idiosyncratic reaction reported in well under 0.1% of dogs, sometimes after just one or two doses — and the kidneys.
Stop the medication and call your vet right away if you notice:
- Vomiting or diarrhea (especially if bloody or dark)
- Appetite loss or lethargy
- Yellowing of the gums or eyes (jaundice)
- Increased thirst or urination
- Unusual changes in behavior
Critical safety warnings
- Never give carprofen to cats — it is a dog medication and is toxic to cats.
- Never combine it with another NSAID (including aspirin or human NSAIDs) or with corticosteroids like prednisone — this sharply raises the risk of ulcers, bleeding, and kidney damage. A washout period is needed when switching drugs.
- Store flavored chewables securely — they taste like treats, and a dog that raids the bottle can suffer a serious overdose. Contact a vet or pet poison helpline immediately if this happens.
- Tell your vet about any pre-existing liver, kidney, or bleeding conditions and all other medications.
Monitoring
Vets typically recommend baseline bloodwork before starting carprofen, a recheck a couple of weeks in, and then periodic monitoring (often every 3–6 months) for long-term use, since organ changes can develop before outward symptoms appear.
Related guides: Gabapentin for dogs · Benadryl for dogs
Frequently asked questions
Can I give my dog carprofen with gabapentin?
Vets often combine them for pain management — but only under veterinary direction and at prescribed doses.
How long can a dog stay on carprofen?
Many dogs use it safely long-term with regular bloodwork monitoring. Your vet will advise on appropriate duration.
Can I give my dog human ibuprofen instead of carprofen?
No. Ibuprofen and other human NSAIDs are dangerous and potentially fatal for dogs.