A pet medication dosage calculator helps you determine safe over-the-counter drug doses for your dog or cat based on their weight. Common OTC medications like Benadryl, Dramamine, Melatonin, and Fish Oil can be safely given to pets at the correct dosage, but some drugs that are safe for dogs are toxic to cats. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
Not Veterinary Advice
This calculator provides general dosage guidelines only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on breed, health conditions, and other medications.
Calculate Pet Medication Dosage
NEVER Give These to Dogs or Cats
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Causes kidney failure, stomach ulcers, and internal bleeding in dogs and cats. Even one dose can be fatal.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Extremely toxic to cats — destroys red blood cells and causes liver failure. Also dangerous for dogs at any dose.
Xylitol (sugar substitute)
Found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some medications. Causes rapid insulin release and liver failure in dogs.
Medication Quick Reference
| Medication | Dogs | Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Benadryl | 1 mg/lb, 2-3x daily | 1 mg/lb, 2x daily |
| Pepto-Bismol | 1 tsp/10 lbs, q6-8h | TOXIC |
| Dramamine | 2-4 mg/lb | 12.5 mg per cat |
| Melatonin | 1-5 mg by weight | 1-3 mg per cat |
| H2O2 3% | 1 tsp/5 lbs, max 3 tbsp | NEVER USE |
| Fish Oil | 75-100 mg EPA+DHA/kg | 30-50 mg EPA+DHA/kg |
| Glucosamine | 20 mg/lb | 120-250 mg per cat |
Dosages are general guidelines. Individual pets may require different doses based on breed, age, health conditions, and concurrent medications. Always verify with your veterinarian.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides general over-the-counter medication dosage estimates for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet, especially if your pet has pre-existing health conditions, is pregnant or nursing, or is taking other medications.
How to Use the Pet Medication Dosage Calculator
Knowing the correct dosage of over-the-counter medications for your dog or cat can be critical in everyday situations, from motion sickness on car rides to allergic reactions. Our pet medication dosage calculator uses widely accepted veterinary dosage guidelines to give you quick, weight-based dosing information for seven common OTC medications, along with safety warnings and frequency recommendations.
Step 1: Select Your Pet's Species
Choose whether you have a dog or a cat. This is crucial because some medications that are safe for dogs are toxic to cats. For example, Pepto-Bismol and hydrogen peroxide should never be given to cats. The calculator automatically blocks these drugs and displays a prominent toxicity warning when "Cat" is selected.
Step 2: Enter Your Pet's Weight
Enter your pet's weight in either pounds or kilograms using the unit toggle. For the most accurate dosage, weigh your pet on a pet scale. If you do not have one, stand on a bathroom scale while holding your pet and subtract your own weight. Accurate weight is essential because most pet medication dosages are calculated on a per-pound or per-kilogram basis.
Step 3: Select the Medication
Choose from seven commonly used OTC medications. The calculator covers Benadryl for allergies, Pepto-Bismol for digestive upset in dogs, Dramamine for motion sickness, Melatonin for anxiety and sleep, hydrogen peroxide 3% to induce vomiting in dogs, Fish Oil for skin and joint health, and Glucosamine for joint support. Each medication has its own dosing formula and safety profile.
Step 4: Review the Dosage and Warnings
After clicking "Calculate Dosage," you will see the recommended dose amount, frequency of administration, maximum single dose, and the most common form of the medication. The calculator also provides specific warnings for each drug, such as drug interactions, contraindications for certain breeds, and signs of overdose to watch for. Pay close attention to the warnings section, as some medications require special precautions.
Medications You Should Never Give to Pets
Some common human medications are extremely dangerous for pets. Never give your dog or cat ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or anything containing xylitol. Ibuprofen causes kidney failure and stomach ulcers, acetaminophen destroys red blood cells in cats and damages the liver in dogs, and xylitol triggers a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood sugar. When in doubt, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control hotline before administering any medication. This pet medication dosage tool is designed to supplement, not replace, professional veterinary guidance.
FAQ
Is this pet medication dosage calculator free?
Yes, this pet medication dosage calculator is completely free with no signup required. All calculations run locally in your browser, so you can use it anytime without creating an account.
Is my pet's data private?
Absolutely. Everything runs entirely in your web browser using client-side JavaScript. No data about your pet is ever sent to a server or stored anywhere. Your information stays on your device.
Can I give my dog Benadryl?
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is generally considered safe for dogs at a dose of 1 mg per pound of body weight, given 2 to 3 times daily. However, you should always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication, especially if your dog has other health conditions or takes other medications.
Is Pepto-Bismol safe for cats?
No. Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, which is related to aspirin and is toxic to cats. Cats lack the ability to metabolize salicylates properly, and even small doses can cause serious illness or death. Never give Pepto-Bismol to a cat.
Can I give my dog ibuprofen or Tylenol?
No. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are extremely dangerous for both dogs and cats. Ibuprofen can cause kidney failure and stomach ulcers in dogs. Acetaminophen is especially deadly to cats. Never give these medications to pets.
How accurate is this pet medication dosage calculator?
This calculator uses widely accepted veterinary dosage guidelines for common OTC medications. However, individual pets may have different needs based on breed, health conditions, and other medications. This tool provides general estimates only. Always consult your veterinarian before administering any medication.
Can I use hydrogen peroxide to make my dog vomit?
Hydrogen peroxide 3% can be used to induce vomiting in dogs at a dose of 1 teaspoon per 5 pounds of body weight, with a maximum of 3 tablespoons. However, this should only be done under veterinary guidance. Never use hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting in cats, as it can cause severe irritation.
Is melatonin safe for dogs and cats?
Melatonin is generally considered safe for both dogs and cats when given at appropriate doses. For dogs, the dose depends on weight, typically ranging from 1 mg for small dogs to 5 mg for large dogs. For cats, 1 to 3 mg is typical. Always use melatonin without xylitol, which is toxic to pets.