Overview of Methocarbamol for Dogs and Cats

 Methocarbamol, also known as Robaxin®, can be used in dogs to treat muscle spasms from slipped disks and cats suffering from toxicity from the insecticide permethrin. 

Muscle spasms accompany a number of medical conditions, including disorders of the spinal column and various poisonings. Drugs that relax contracted muscles can provide relief from pain and prevent harmful muscle tremors.

Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant. Exactly how methocarbamol leads to muscle relaxation is unclear, but an action centered in the brain is suspected.

A secondary effect of methocarbamol is sedation.

Methocarbamol is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names of Methocarbamol 

This drug is registered for use in humans and animals.

Human formulations: Robaxin® (Robins) and various generic preparations

Veterinary formulations: Robaxin®-V (Fort Dodge)

Uses of Methocarbamol for Dogs and Cats

Methocarbamol is used to reduce muscle tremors that result from various diseases, traumas or ingestion of toxins.

It can be used in dogs to treat muscle spasms arising from intervertebral disk disease (“slipped disk”).

The drug is quite effective in treating cats suffering from toxicity from the insecticide permethrin.

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, methocarbamol can cause side effects in some animals.

Methocarbamol should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Methocarbamol should be used with caution in animals with kidney impairment.

Methocarbamol should be avoided in pregnant animals.

Methocarbamol may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with methocarbamol. Such drugs include certain sedatives, barbiturates and other muscle relaxants.

Adverse effects associated with methocarbamol include drooling, sedation, vomiting and stumbling.

How Methocarbamol Is Supplied

Methocarbamol is available in 500 mg and 750 mg tablets.

It is also available in 100 mg/ml injectable form.

Dosing Information of Methocarbamol for Dogs and Cats

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

Initially, methocarbamol is dosed at 7 to 20 mg per pound (15 to 44 mg/kg) up to three times daily. In dogs and cats, doses of methocarbamol can be repeated and up to 110 mg per pound (220 mg/kg) for severe symptoms. 

Methocarbamol can also be given by constant rate infusion (CRI) with drug going slowly through an Intravenous line (IV). 

The dose of methocarbamol should not exceed 150 mg per pound (300 mg/kg) per day.

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.