lasix for dogs and cats

Furosemide (Lasix®) for Dogs and Cats

Overview of Furosemide (Lasix®) for Dogs and Cats

Furosemide, commonly known by the brand name Lasix®, is a powerful medication used to remove excess fluid from the body. It is most often prescribed to treat heart failure and fluid buildup in the lungs, also called pulmonary edema, in both dogs and cats.

Some medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, can cause the body to retain too much sodium (salt) and water. This leads to swelling and fluid buildup in the chest, abdomen, or legs. Furosemide is a type of drug called a loop diuretic, which works on the kidneys to remove this extra fluid.

It acts on a part of the kidney called the loop of Henle and blocks the absorption of sodium, chloride, potassium, and water. This causes the body to make more urine, helping flush out excess fluid and reduce swelling.

Furosemide is available in different strengths, including furosemide 12.5 mg for dogs, which may be prescribed for small dogs or pets who need a lower dose. Your veterinarian will choose the right strength and dosing schedule based on your pet's size, condition, and overall health.

This drug is available only by prescription and should be used exactly as directed by your vet.

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Brand Names and Other Names of Furosemide

Furosemide is used in both human and veterinary medicine.

Uses of Furosemide for Dogs and Cats

Furosemide helps reduce fluid buildup and prevent new swelling from forming. It is mainly used to treat heart failure and pulmonary edema.

It can also help lower high calcium or potassium levels in the blood, and it may be used to increase urine output in pets that are not urinating enough.

Furosemide Side Effects for Dogs and Cats

Furosemide is generally safe when prescribed and monitored by a veterinarian. However, some pets may experience side effects.

Avoid using it in pets with kidney disease, dehydration, diabetes, liver problems, or electrolyte imbalances unless advised by your vet.

Common side effects may include:

Furosemide can also interact with other medications, such as corticosteroids, theophylline, aspirin, and digitalis. Always tell your vet about any medications your pet is taking.

Monitoring and Follow-Up Care

When your pet is taking furosemide, regular monitoring is important to make sure the medication is working properly and not causing unwanted side effects. Your veterinarian may recommend routine blood tests to check your pet’s kidney function and electrolyte levels, especially potassium. Monitoring your pet’s weight, appetite, and energy level at home can also help detect early signs of dehydration or other complications.

In pets taking the 12.5 mg formulation of furosemide, lower doses may reduce the risk of side effects, but ongoing monitoring is still essential—particularly in small dogs or those with other health conditions. Contact your vet if you notice signs such as increased thirst, vomiting, weakness, or changes in urination.

Never change your pet’s dose or stop the medication without veterinary guidance, even if they seem to be doing well. Follow-up visits help ensure that the medication is both safe and effective for your pet over time.

How Furosemide Is Supplied

Furosemide comes in tablets of 12.5 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, and 80 mg.

Liquid forms include 8 mg/ml and 10 mg/ml oral solutions, as well as 10 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml injectable solutions.

Dosing Information of Furosemide for Dogs and Cats

Never give furosemide to your pet without first speaking to a veterinarian.

The drug can be given by mouth (tablet or liquid) or by injection. In emergency or hospital settings, it may be given as a continuous infusion.

Typical dosing:

Your vet will adjust the dose depending on your pet’s response and any side effects. Even if your pet starts to feel better, finish the full course unless your vet tells you to stop.