Is Zyrtec (Cetirizine) for Allergies Really Safe for your Dog?

Since Zyrtec is being used with dogs’ allergies, I’d like to mention it. Please understand Zyrtec is effective for skin allergies, insect bites, and atopic dermatitis. It’s important to be cautious when giving Zyrtec to pets and should only be administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. ***NOT ALL FORMS OF ZYRTEC ARE SAFE FOR DOGS***

Credit for this article goes to bettervet.com. I thought it was well balanced, informative, professionally written by a vet, and something every pet owner needs to know.

(From the get-go, if you’d prefer alternative care that is not a pharmaceutical, CLICK HERE.)

Many pets struggle with allergies, experiencing constant scratching and discomfort that make them restless and unhappy. As a veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand how allergies can impact a pet’s quality of life.

The good news is they may find relief with Cetirizine, brand name Zyrtec, a commonly used antihistamine with humans that can also be used to treat dogs and cats.

In this post, I’ll explore how you can provide relief to your pet’s allergies with Zyrtec, what side effects to watch out for, and how to ensure their safety and comfort.

How Does Zyrtec Help With Pet Allergies?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an over-the-counter medicine that blocks histamine, reducing allergy symptoms  like itching and inflammation in pets. It’s used mainly for dogs with environmental allergies.

Types of Zyrtec (Cetirizine)

Zyrtec is available in various forms: single-ingredient tablets, combination-ingredient tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, oral liquid, and disintegrating tablets.

Zyrtec for Treating Allergy Symptoms in Pets

Since cetirizine is meant to block histamine, Zyrtec works well for various allergy symptoms in pets like: 

• Itching
• Scratching
• Hives
• Sneezing
• Insect bites
• Seasonal allergies – pollen, grass, weeds
• Atopic dermatitis

👉NOTE: It is extremely important NOT to use Zyrtec-D, as it contains pseudoephedrine! This ingredient is toxic to dogs. And, as with any over-the-counter (OTC) human medication, always check for xylitol (also known as birch sugar and similar names), too, as it can kill your dog.👈

How Often Should You Give Your Pet Zyrtec?

The frequency of administering Zyrtec (cetirizine) to pets, particularly dogs, typically ranges from once to twice daily, depending on the severity of the allergic symptoms and your vet’s advice.

It’s crucial to follow a veterinarian’s specific recommendations on dosage and frequency to ensure it’s safe and effective for your pet’s particular needs.

Dosages can vary based on the pet’s weight and health condition, so a vet’s guidance is essential.

Zyrtec for Dogs

Under the guidance of a veterinarian, cetirizine can treat itching, scratching, hives, sneezing, and insect bites in dogs. It can be effective for canine seasonal allergies caused by pollen, grass, and weeds and as a treatment for atopic dermatitis

Recommended Cetirizine Dosage in Dogs

The recommended dosage is 0.5 mg per pound of your dog’s weight, up to 20 mg, given every 12-24 hours.

Zyrtec for Cats

Cetirizine can be recommended by your veterinarian for temporary relief from the symptoms of feline seasonal allergies  such as itchy skin and a runny nose or eyes. 

Recommended Cetirizine Dosage in Cats

The recommended dosage of cetirizine for cats is a total dose of 2.5 – 5 mg per cat one to two times daily.

Zyrtec Warnings for Pets

Zyrtec-D®, which contains pseudoephedrine is not safe for use in dogs or cats. Another consideration is the inactive ingredients that may be in combination with Zyrtec as these can be toxic to pets.

Watch out for liquid formulations that contain propylene glycol which is toxic to cats, and disintegrating tablets that contain xylitol which is toxic to dogs.

Cetirizine Side Effects in Pets

Based on my observation as a veterinarian, Cetirizine can be a good antihistamine choice because it causes fewer drowsiness side effects compared to Benadryl and hydroxyzine.

Side effects are uncommon, but some dogs and cats may experience:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Increased salivation
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Urinary retention

Less Common Reactions to Zyrtec in Pets

The symptoms below are not as common, but Zyrtec could still cause:

• Sedation
• Drowsiness
• Ataxia (unsteady on feet)
• Agitation or restlessness at high doses
• Rare reactions include hypersensitivity reactions, pruritus, and dry eye

Precautions When Giving Your Dog or Cat Zyrtec

There are certain conditions that would prevent your veterinarian from recommending Cetirizine for your pet. These include:

• Pets with hypersensitivity to antihistamines
• Pet patients with asthma attacks
• Dogs and cats with liver 
• Pet patients with seizure disorders
• Dogs or cats with increased ocular pressure (glaucoma), hyperthyroidism, urinary retention, intestinal atony, cardiovascular disease, & hypertension
• Working animals (possible sedating effects, although less likely)
• Nursing & pregnant pets

Medications That Should Not Be Combined With Zyrtec

The list of medications below should not be administered to your pet with Cetirizine: 

• Cetirizine products with combined pseudoephedrine (Zyrtec-D)
• Central nervous system depressants such as diazepam (Valium) or alprazolam (Xanax) & tranquilizers
• Medications for urinary incontinence
• Antispasmodics
• Other antihistamines
• Selegiline or other MAOIs

Discuss with your veterinarian if your pet is on supplements or vitamins to ensure safety

Summing Up Zyrtec for Pets

Zyrtec, when administered correctly, can offer effective relief for your pet’s allergy symptoms. Cetirizine is a good antihistamine option with few side effects. Keep an eye out for any reactions, and always talk to your veterinarian first. 

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