Skip to main content

Library

  • Meropenem is an antibiotic used to treat multi-drug-resistant bacterial infections in cats and dogs, particularly infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Its use in veterinary medicine is limited to susceptible infections with documented resistance to other antimicrobials. Its use is off label in veterinary medicine. Meropenem comes in an injectable form.

  • Metaldehyde toxicity occurs when a dog (or a cat, less commonly) eats slug bait that contains metaldehyde. Signs of metaldehyde toxicity include vomiting, anxiety, ataxia (due to muscle incoordination), stiffness, muscle tremors, elevated heart rate and respiratory rate, increased salivation, and increased sensitivity to touch. These signs often progress to continuous muscle tremors and seizures. Prognosis is good with aggressive treatment.

  • Methazolamide (brand names Neptazane®, GlaucTabs®, Glaumetax®, MZM) is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used off label (extra label) to treat open angle glaucoma in dogs and cats. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, have significant liver, kidney, or adrenal disease, have electrolyte imbalances, have severe obstructive lung disease, or have closed angle glaucoma.

  • Methimazole (brand names Tapazole®, Felimazole®, Felanorm®) is an antithyroid medication used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. It is given by mouth or applied topically to the skin. Common side effects include vomiting, anorexia, and tiredness, but more severe side effects are possible. It is contraindicated in pregnant or nursing pets, as well as in cats with autoimmune disease, liver or kidney disease, and/or blood and clotting diseases.

  • Methionine (brand name Methio-Form) is a nutritional supplement used to make urine more acidic in cats and dogs. Urine acidifiers help manage certain types of urolithiasis (urinary stones). Methionine comes in gel, chewable, powder, and tablet forms. Monitor urine pH and seek immediate veterinary care if signs of Heinz-body anemia appear in cats (pale gums, red-brown urine, weakness).

  • Methocarbamol (brand names: Robaxin®, Robinax®, Robaximol®) is a muscle relaxant used to reduce muscle spasms associated with inflammation, injury, intervertebral disc disease, and certain toxicities. It is used only in companion animals. It is given by mouth as a tablet.

  • Methylprednisolone is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label in dogs, cats, and horses to treat inflammatory, immune-mediated, and hormonal conditions. Common side effects include increased drinking, urination, and appetite, dull/dry haircoat, and/or weight gain.

  • Methylsulfonylmethane is given by mouth and is used over the counter and off label to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, restlessness, or tiredness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that are pregnant or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Metoclopramide (brand names Reglan® and Maxolon®) is used off label in dogs, cats, and small mammals to stimulate movement in the stomach and upper small intestines to prevent esophageal reflux. In cats and dogs, it is used in the treatment or prevention of vomiting, and also to induce milk let-down and to promote milk production.

  • Metoprolol is a beta-blocker used to treat certain heart rhythm problems and hypertension (high blood pressure) in cats and dogs. It has also been used in the treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine.