Carprofen vs Meloxicam: what's the difference?
How Carprofen and Meloxicam compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 4 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Carprofen | Meloxicam | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Carprofen | Meloxicam |
| Brand names | Rimadyl, Novox, Vetprofen, Carprieve, Rovera | Metacam, Loxicom, OroCAM |
| For | Dogs | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Treats pain and inflammation in dogs, such as arthritis pain and pain after surgery. [1] | Relieves pain, inflammation and fever. It is labeled for osteoarthritis in dogs and for pain after surgery. [2] |
| How it works | It is an NSAID. It blocks enzymes that make prostaglandins, the chemicals that cause pain and swelling. [1] | An NSAID that lowers prostaglandins, which drive pain and swelling. [2] |
| Common side effects | Vomiting, low appetite, diarrhea, constipation and tiredness. Rarely, liver, kidney or stomach damage. [1] | Stomach upset is most common: vomiting, soft stool and low appetite. Rarely, kidney or liver problems. [2] |
| Use with care | Never combine with other NSAIDs or steroids. Not for dogs with bleeding disorders. Stop and call your vet for black or bloody stool, yellow gums or eyes, or changes in drinking or urination. Never give human pain relievers instead. [1] | Cats are more sensitive to NSAIDs, so follow your vet's plan exactly. Not for pets with kidney or liver disease or bloody vomit or stool. Never combine with another NSAID or a steroid. [2] |
| Typical price | Carprofen or Rimadyl: $12–$50 a month [3] Rimadyl, typical owner bill (103 bills): $15–$50 [4] | Meloxicam for a dog, at a pharmacy: $4–$15 a month [3] |
| Full guide | Carprofen (Rimadyl) guide | Meloxicam (Metacam) guide |
Key differences
- They aren't made for the same animals: Carprofen is for dogs; Meloxicam is for dogs and cats.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Carprofen to Meloxicam is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Carprofen and Meloxicam?
Both are NSAIDs for pain and inflammation. Meloxicam is also used in cats; carprofen is for dogs.
Is Carprofen better than Meloxicam?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Carprofen and Meloxicam together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Carprofen and Meloxicam need a prescription?
Carprofen: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Meloxicam: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
How much do Carprofen and Meloxicam cost?
Carprofen: Carprofen or Rimadyl $12–$50 a month. Meloxicam: Meloxicam for a dog, at a pharmacy $4–$15 a month. Prices vary by pet size, pharmacy and clinic.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.