Considerations.
Experts do not recommend Zyrtec for pregnant or breastfeeding dogs
since there is little research on its use in these groups. Some veterinarians will still prescribe Zyrtec for pregnant and nursing dogs on an individual basis if the benefits outweigh the risks.
What can I give my pregnant dog for an allergic reaction?
- Benadryl is a brand name for an antihistamine (diphenhydramine HCl) that can help alleviate symptoms of allergic reactions and even anxiety.
- Benadryl is a relatively safe and effective medication for both dogs and cats, but you should check with your vet first.
What antihistamine is safe for pregnant dogs?
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.
How much Zyrtec Can you give a dog?
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.
What pregnancy category is Zyrtec?
| Medication Drug class Pregnancy risk category* | Cetirizine (Zyrtec) Second-generation (selective, nonsedating) antihistamine B | Loratadine (Claritin) Second-generation (selective, nonsedating) antihistamine B |
|---|
Is cetirizine antihistamine safe for pregnancy?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Cetirizine can be used in pregnancy
. There is no good evidence that it causes harm to the baby. However, other antihistamines such as loratadine may be recommended as there is more information about its use in pregnancy.
Can I give my dog Zyrtec for 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’.
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.
What is better for dogs Benadryl or Zyrtec?
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is the most popular antihistamine for humans and can be effective for dogs as well
. Just be aware that Benadryl has sedative properties, so your dog could get very drowsy. Other safe antihistamines for dogs include Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine).
What is the best antihistamine for dog allergies?
| Best allergy medicine for pet allergies | Claritin (loratadine) 10 mg orally once per day Get coupon | Allegra (fexofenadine) 180 mg orally once per day, or 60 mg twice per day Get coupon | Zyrtec (cetirizine) 5 mg and 10 mg tablets (also available as a syrup and chewable) Get coupon |
|---|
Is Apoquel safe for pregnant dogs?
The safety of Apoquel during pregnancy, lactation or in dogs intended for breeding has not been established, so its use is not recommended
. Oclacitinib modulates the immune system and may increase susceptibility to infection and exacerbate neoplastic conditions.
How do you treat a pregnant dog?
As her weight increases in the last weeks of her pregnancy, veterinarians recommend
increasing her food intake gradually, until she consumes 35-to-50 percent more than usual
. Increase her intake slowly and feed her small, frequent meals, as large meals can cause discomfort.
Will a 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
.
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.
Is Zyrtec the same as Apoquel?
The reason for this is Zyrtec is rather low-risk, however,
it’s not as effective as the drug Apoquel
. Zyrtec’s main issue is that it’s an antihistamine which studies have found to only help about 30% of dogs with 25% of them having adverse reactions.
Can Zyrtec cause miscarriage?
Can taking cetirizine in pregnancy cause miscarriage? The likelihood of miscarriage has been assessed in around 430 women taking cetirizine in early pregnancy. Although
the studies do not raise concern that cetirizine causes miscarriage
, ongoing research is ideally required to confirm this.
What happens if I take Zyrtec D while pregnant?
Allergy medications that combine an antihistamine with a decongestant like pseudoephedrine aren’t safe, because they
can raise your blood pressure
. Avoid the Claritin D, the Zyrtec D, and the Allegra D. The D indicates it has pseudoephedrine in it.
Which medication is considered safe during pregnancy?
| Condition Safe OTC Medications to Take During Pregnancy* | First Aid Ointment Bacitracin J & J Neosporin | Headache Tylenol (acetaminophen) | Heartburn Gaviscon Maalox Mylanta Riopan Titralac TUMs | Hemorrhoids Anusol Preparation H Tucks Witch hazel |
|---|
Does Zyrtec cause birth defects?
Cetirizine is unlikely to cause other pregnancy complications.
Studies on a small number of pregnancies did not find a higher chance for birth defects
, preterm delivery (having the baby before 37 weeks), or low birth weight.
Which allergy medicine is safe for dogs?
The most common antihistamine for dogs is
diphenhydramine, brand name Benadryl
. Also found in ProSense Dog Itch & Allergy Solutions Tablets, diphenhydramine is safe in most dogs if given in the recommended dosage of 1 mg of diphenhydramine per pound of body weight given by mouth.
Can my dog take Apoquel and Zyrtec together?
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.
