Medicine

Calmex for Dogs - Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

 
María Besteiros
By María Besteiros, Veterinary assistant and groomer. Updated: July 23, 2024
Calmex for Dogs - Uses, Dosage and Side Effects
Dogs

See files for Dogs

As its name implies, Calmex for dogs is a product that contains different ingredients chosen for their relaxing properties. For this reason, Calmex is a product used to reassure dogs that are going through situations of nervousness or anxiety.

In this AnimalWised article, we look at Calmex for dogs, specifically its uses, dosage and side effects. It is important to note that this product is only to be used when prescribed by a veterinarian.

Contents
  1. What is Calmex for dogs?
  2. Uses of Calmex for dogs
  3. Calmex dosage for dogs
  4. How long does the effect of Calmex last in dogs?
  5. Contraindications of Calmex for dogs
  6. Side Effects of Calmex for Dogs

What is Calmex for dogs?

Calmex for dogs is a feed blend that contains a mixture of different amino acids, Piper methysticum and a complex of B vitamins. More specifically, it incorporates the amino acids L-theanine and L-tryptophan, as well as vitamins B1, B3, B6, B8 and B12. Piper methysticum is a plant with sedative and anesthetic properties known commonly as the kava plant.

Combined in this formulation promotes relaxation in dogs. It is a supplement for the dog's diet, not something which should replace their normal nutrition. In other words, it is a nutritional supplement with a calming effect, it is not a complete food for dogs.

It is presented for oral administration as a yellowish powder that is included inside blue and white capsules. These can be opened for better management and administration. In this way, the dog can be given the capsule whole, or the powder can be added to their food. Calmex should be stored protected from direct sunlight, in a cool, dry place and out of reach of our dog, as well as other animals and children.

Uses of Calmex for dogs

In view of its composition and thanks to its relaxing properties, Calmex is used in dogs to treat states of anxiety or nervousness. These can be generated by situations derived from stress, trauma, environmental changes or anything which can cause anxiety in dogs. It is not a sedative to be used for an acute attack of anxiety. It is used as a dietary supplement to help dogs which either experience generalized anxiety or are about to go through an experience we can assume will be stressful for them.

Situations when Calmex could be useful include when the dog experiences:

  • Loud noises that make them uneasy (e.g. fireworks)
  • Major changes in their daily life
  • Traveling
  • Surgery or veterinary visits
  • Stays in kennels
  • When they have arrived home

Dogs which have been adopted from animal shelters are often prone to anxiety. They may have experienced trauma, neglect, abandonment or abuse which leaves them feeling scared and insecure. For this reason, otherwise normal stimuli can often cause exaggerated responses.

We can detect anxiety in our dog if we observe:

  • Trembling
  • Barking nonstop
  • Trying to hide or run away
  • Urinating or defecating inappropriately
  • Continuous panting
  • Acute nervousness
  • Scratching the floor, doors or furniture

If you recognize these behaviors in your dog, do not give Calmex. The first thing you need to do is go to the vet. If a problem of fear, anxiety, stress or a phobia is confirmed, it is important to establish management measures and not just give Calmex. Calmex is for specific situations of stress and will need to be administered by a professional.

Calmex dosage for dogs

Calmex dosage depends on the weight of our dog. The following instructions must be followed when giving Calmex to a dog:

  • For specimens weighing less than 10 kg: half a capsule with food.
  • Dogs between 10 and 25 kg in weight: one whole capsule.
  • For dogs over 25 kg in weight: the appropriate dose will be two capsules.
  • Dogs from 40 to 55 kg: will need three capsules.
  • Large and giant specimens from 55 to 70 kg: will have to take four capsules.

These guidelines for Calmex dosages will be provided in a single administration per day. In any case, these data are only a general recommendation, since the dose can be increased by half a capsule when necessary. Of course, the decision on the best dose for our dog can only be made by the veterinarian.

How long does the effect of Calmex last in dogs?

First of all, keep in mind that Calmex for dogs takes a while to take effect. It is recommended Calmex is administered to our dog between 30 and 60 minutes before the event that is likely to cause nervousness or anxiety in the animal. Its use is short-term and its calming action can last up to 12 hours, although the peak of action will be between 4 and 6 hours after administration.

Learn about another type of canine supplement with our article on glucosamine for dogs.

Contraindications of Calmex for dogs

As always when we talk about products for the treatment of different conditions that can affect our dogs, we insist on the importance of going to the vet. Calmex can only be prescribed by this professional after examination and diagnosis of the animal. It can only be given by following his instructions and under their supervision. Outside of this advice, studies have so far revealed no contraindications to its use.

Calmex for Dogs - Uses, Dosage and Side Effects - Contraindications of Calmex for dogs

Side Effects of Calmex for Dogs

Calmex for dogs, as we have said, is a natural tranquilizer and anxiolytic. It should not cause any specific side effects in your dog. Even if it is a nutritional supplement and not a medicine, it is still essential that the veterinarian prescribes it and that we do not give it to the dog on our own and without any diagnosis or control. It is always possible the dog will be allergic to an active ingredient or excipient in the formula.

This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to Calmex for Dogs - Uses, Dosage and Side Effects, we recommend you visit our Medicine category.

Write a comment
Add an image
Click to attach a photo related to your comment
What did you think of this article?
1 of 2
Calmex for Dogs - Uses, Dosage and Side Effects