What You Must Know About Giving Your Dog Lasix!

Last Updated on September 9, 2020

Are you wondering if your dog can take Lasix?

You aren’t alone! Many owners with older canines inquire about this drug (generic name Furosemide).

Here’s the deal:

Vets do, in fact, utilize this loop diuretic. It tends to be super effective at reducing water retention-related swelling.

Such fluid build-up, AKA edema, is often a direct result of a serious medical condition including a liver or kidney disease or congestive heart failure.

You’ll be happy to hear that Lasix is fairly safe for animals when proper precautions are taken.

Depending on the prognosis, your dog may be a candidate for Furosemide.

Some Dogs Greatly Benefit From Lasix

But it’s necessary to be vigilant about warding off dehydration during treatment.

You must watch over your dog while they’re on a diuretic treatment regimen such as this one.

While generally considered safe, Furosemide can actually cause a host of side effects including vitamin and electrolyte imbalances.

And consider that your dog may require a specialized prescription diet or a specific type of vitamin supplementation—perhaps added potassium.

So speak with your veterinarian about a Lasix prescription. Avoid giving a leftover supply.

Here’s How Lasix Works

Usually taken orally, but also available by injection, Lasix will restrict absorption of water and certain nutrients in your dog’s kidneys.

By changing kidney function, it effectively eliminates excess fluids.

You will likely notice increased urination which is not uncommon.

The Potential Side Effects

Again, dehydration is a concern linked to Lasix.

After all, it’s a powerful diuretic and it is easy for dogs to become dehydrated. See to it that such as scenario doesn’t happen.

But that’s not all…

The following are some of the other known side effects linked to Lasix:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Increased heart rate
• Jaundice
• Blurred vision
• Restlessness
• Stomachaches
• Muscle pain
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Seizures

Thankfully such symptoms are not typical.

But if any side effects do occur, play it safe and return to your local clinic. It could be that your dog requires immediate medical attention.

Interactions And Allergies

The fact is there are certain drugs that cannot be taken with Lasix.

Does your dog suffer from diabetes or certain liver or kidney diseases?

That would need to be taken into consideration.

Allergic reactions are also possible. The mouth area is of particular concern, including the ability to breath.

The point is your dog should only be given Lasix under a professional’s guidance.

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Important: Limit your animal’s sun exposure while they’re on Lasix.

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Lasix Can Be a Life Saver

It’s understandable to be upset and concerned about your dog’s well-being if they may need Lasix.

But don’t lose hope whether the problem is hypertension (high blood pressure), too much calcium or potassium in the blood, kidney failure, a liver issue or congestive heart failure.

It is certainly possible that Furosemide can give your dog a life line.

The Bottom Line

Lasix is a diuretic that may prolong your dog’s life.

Furosemide can be a solution for when a pet has a medical condition that is causing ongoing water retention.

Ask your vet about the possibility of getting a Lasix prescription for your dog.

We like that harmful side effects are relatively rare, though you’d still want to watch for indications of dehydration.

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