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Ketorolac

Prescription

NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug)

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

3 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Non-selective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor that decreases prostaglandin synthesis. Potent analgesic with anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. Parenteral formulation used for perioperative analgesia.

At a glance

Class

NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug)

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light; discard unused portion of multidose vial

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Short-term use only (≤5 days)

Dose

0.5 mg/kg

Route

IV, IM, Ophthalmic

Frequency

q8h (systemic); q6h (ophthalmic)

🐈

Cat

Cats are highly sensitive to NSAIDs

Dose

—

Route

Ophthalmic

Frequency

q8–12h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light; discard unused portion of multidose vial

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Renal function (BUN, creatinine, urinalysis)GI signs (melena, vomiting)Hepatic enzymes

Educational reference only

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Meloxicam

contraindicated

Two NSAIDs: synergistic GI ulceration, renal papillary necrosis, and platelet dysfunction.

Management: NEVER combine. 5-7 day washout between NSAIDs.

Major — 1

Prednisolone

major

NSAID + corticosteroid: ketorolac is a particularly potent NSAID with high GI ulceration risk. Combined with steroid: very dangerous.

Management: Do not combine. Allow 3-5 day washout.

Moderate — 1

Furosemide

moderate

Ketorolac reduces renal prostaglandin-mediated blood flow and sodium excretion, decreasing furosemide diuretic efficacy.

Management: Monitor urine output and renal function.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Toradol

Acular (ophthalmic)

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Ketorolac?

Ketorolac is a nsaid (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) used in pets. Non-selective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor that decreases prostaglandin synthesis. Potent analgesic with anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. Parenteral formulation used for perioperative analgesia.

›What is Ketorolac used for in pets?

Ketorolac is used in veterinary medicine for: Short-term use only (≤5 days); Cats are highly sensitive to NSAIDs.

›What is the Ketorolac dose for dogs?

For dogs, Ketorolac is typically dosed as follows — Short-term use only (≤5 days): 0.5 mg/kg IV/IM/Ophthalmic q8h (systemic); q6h (ophthalmic). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Ketorolac dose for cats?

For cats, Ketorolac is typically dosed as follows — Cats are highly sensitive to NSAIDs: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Ketorolac need a prescription?

Yes. Ketorolac is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only