Zyrtec is an over-the-counter human allergy medication sometimes given to dogs with atopic dermatitis or mild to moderate environmental allergies.
Vets may suggest Zyrtec as a course of action for dogs who scratch excessively, are sensitive to insect bites, or have dermatitis
.
Should I give my dog Benadryl or Zyrtec?
Alternatives to Benadryl for dogs.
Both cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are considered safe for dogs in the right dosage
. However, they are also frequently combined with other ingredients like decongestants, which can hurt your dog. Always consult with a vet before giving your dog any new medication.
Will Zyrtec help my dogs itching?
Cetirizine (brand name Zyrtec®, Reactine®) is an antihistamine
used to treat pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect-bite reactions in cats and dogs
. Its use is in cats and dogs is ‘off label’ or ‘extra label’.
Which antihistamine is best for itching in dogs?
Hydroxyzine
is an antihistamine that tends to be effective for treating itchy skin. It’s also useful in the treatment of acute allergic reactions to bites, stings and vaccinations. Dosing depends on the individual dog and must be recommended by a veterinarian.
Will Zyrtec hurt my dog?
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®), and loratadine (Claritin®) are commonly used antihistamines that relieve allergy symptoms or counteract allergic reactions. Antihistamines are
usually safe but can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive
.
Can I give my dog Zyrtec every day?
Zyrtec (cetirizine) or Claritin (loratadine)
can be given once to twice daily
. The adult tablets are both 10mg. Dogs under 10 pounds should get no more than 5mg, or 1⁄2 of a tablet. Those weighing 10-50 pounds should get 10mg, and heavy dogs (over 50 pounds) can take up to 20mg.
How long does Zyrtec take to work in dogs?
If you provide the proper amount, your dog will be less likely to experience those unfavorable side effects from the medication. Zyrtec will act quickly once your dog digests it, and within
1-2 hours
you should be able to see signs of improvement.
How often can dogs have Zyrtec?
Zyrtec comes in 5 and 10-milligram tablets and can be given either
every 24 hours for atopic dermatitis or every 12 hours for allergy symptoms
. The 10 mg pills are okay for dogs between 10 and 50 lbs, though 5-10 lb dogs should only take half (or a 5-mg tablet.)
How much Zyrtec can I give my dog?
The standard Zyrtec dose for dogs is generally
0.5mg per pound of body weight, not exceeding 20 mg per day
. For example, a 20 pound dog should receive 10mg of Zyrtec for their once daily dose.
What can I give my dog for allergies and itching?
Benadryl
is a great medication for use in dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites all respond to Benadryl in most cases.
What is the best allergy medicine for dog allergies?
Treating Dog Allergies
Your doctor might recommend: Antihistamines, which block the effects of a chemical that triggers dog allergy symptoms; they’re sold over the counter — like
cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin)
— or by prescription.
Which antihistamines are safe for dogs?
- Cetirizine. 1 milligram per kilogram of body weight or 10 to 20 milligrams per dog, once or twice per day.
- Clemastine. 0.1 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, two times per day.
- Chlorpheniramine. Dogs under 20 kilograms. …
- Cyproheptadine. …
- Fexofenadine. …
- Hydroxyzine. …
- Terfenadine. …
- Trimeprazine.
Can I give my dog Zyrtec in the morning and Benadryl at night?
Both are antihistamines and giving them together may cause stronger side effects.
It is NOT recommended
. Give one or the other based on your dog’s weight and only under the advice of your veterinarian.
Is Claritin or Zyrtec better for dog allergies?
Antihistamines for mild pet allergies
For example,
a person with mild allergies may do well with Claritin
. Another person with more severe allergies may do better with Zyrtec. However, Dr. Qamar says that although Zyrtec may be more effective in some patients, “around 10% of people can become sleepy with it.”
Can I give my dog human allergy pills?
Over-the-counter allergy meds like Claritin can be used in dogs, too, but ask with your vet for doses
. And yes, just like humans, some antihistamines can cause drowsiness or hyperactivity in pets, so be sure to safeguard them from injuries.
Is it better to take Zyrtec in the morning or night?
Zyrtec (cetirizine)
can be taken during the day or at night
. If you feel sleepy after taking Zyrtec (cetirizine), taking it at night may be a better option for you.
Is Zyrtec good for dog allergies?
When you can’t live without your pet, a medicine for dog and cat allergies can help control your pet allergy symptoms. ZYRTEC
®
starts working at hour 1 and stays strong day after day, so
you can reduce your cat and dog allergy symptoms
.
Can I give my dog Zyrtec and Apoquel?
While
it is safe to give these two medications together
I’d check in with your vet before proceeding to make sure it is safe for Izzie specifically. Also, it may not be necessary to add in an antihistamine if the Apoquel is doing it’s job.
Can I use Benadryl instead of Apoquel?
Apoquel vs. Benadryl, which is the best dog medication for itching? The best medicine of these two products is dependent on your unique needs.
If your dog is exhibiting mild itchiness, which comes and goes, then your best option is Benadryl
.
Can I give my dog Claritin instead of Apoquel?
Apoquel vs Claritin For Dogs
The human antihistamine Claritin (loratadine) is generally safe for dogs and can provide allergy relief
. But you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any human medications.
Is there an alternative for Apoquel?
Yucca and quercetin are also great natural alternatives to Apoquel
. Yucca has an effect similar to steroid drugs without the harmful side effects. Quercetin is a plant derivative that acts as a natural antihistamine and is a great option for dogs whose itching is reduced by Benadryl.
