Which NSAIDs are commonly used for dogs after soft tissue surgery, and what considerations apply?

• A. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
• B. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and prednisone.
• C. Deracoxib, meloxicam, and carprofen; assess renal/hepatic function and hydration.
• D. Carprofen, meloxicam, deracoxib; assess renal/hepatic function and hydration.

Answer: (D)

Postoperative pain control in dogs after soft tissue surgery relies on NSAIDs that provide effective analgesia with a favorable safety profile when kidney and liver function are considered. The commonly used choices are carprofen, meloxicam, and deracoxib. These drugs offer good anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects while being better tolerated in the gastrointestinal tract compared with older, non-selective NSAIDs. The important consideration is that NSAIDs can affect renal perfusion and liver metabolism, especially in patients who are dehydrated or have preexisting kidney or liver disease. Therefore, assess renal and hepatic function and hydration status before starting therapy and monitor accordingly. If dehydration is present or renal/hepatic function is compromised, NSAIDs may be contraindicated or require close monitoring and dose adjustments or alternative analgesia. The other listed drugs aren’t appropriate for routine NSAID postoperative analgesia in dogs: aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen carry high risk of serious GI and renal toxicity; acetaminophen has limited anti-inflammatory effect and hepatotoxic potential; prednisone is a steroid, not an NSAID, so it isn’t used as an NSAID post-op analgesic.