Do you have a dog that suffers from allergies? If so, you may have heard of “Piriton”, a popular antihistamine that is commonly used by humans for allergy relief.
But can you give Piriton to your dog? And if so, how much and how often?
In this article, we will answer these questions and more. We will explain what is Piriton for dogs, how it works, when and how to give it to your dog, what are the possible side effects and precautions, and what are some natural alternatives to Piriton.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of Piriton for dogs and how to use it safely and effectively.
“Your dog may benefit from Piriton, but it is not a magic pill. Learn the facts about Piriton for dogs in this informative blog.”
Contents
What Is Piriton for Dogs?
Piriton for dogs is a medicine that contains “chlorphenamine maleate”, which is an antihistamine.[1]
Antihistamines are medicines that block the effects of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic symptoms such as itching, sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes.
- Piriton for dogs can be used to treat various allergic conditions and itching in dogs, such as hay fever, pet allergies, insect bites, food allergies and chickenpox.
- Piriton for dogs can be given as tablets (4 mg strength) or syrup (2 mg in 5 ml), but only under the direction of a vet.
- Piriton for dogs can help relieve the symptoms of allergies and itching, but it can also make your dog sleepy.
How Piriton for Dogs Works
- Piriton works for dogs by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic symptoms in dogs.
- Histamine is released by the body when it encounters a foreign substance such as pollen or pet fur (this is called an allergen).[2]
- Histamine attaches to its receptors in various parts of the body and causes inflammation, itching, sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes.
- Piriton prevents histamine from binding to its receptors and thus reduces the symptoms of allergies and itching in dogs.
- Piriton usually starts to work within half an hour to an hour after giving it to your dog.
When Should You Give Your Dog Piriton
You should not give your dog Piriton unless you have consulted your vet and they have given specific advice for your dog’s needs.
You should consult your vet if your dog is suffering from an allergic reaction and displaying symptoms such as:
- Increased scratching
- Red, itchy and inflamed skin
- Coughing and/or sneezing
- Incessant chewing of paws
- Irritated skin around eye or ear
- Swelling
- Hair loss
- Increased ear infections
How Much Piriton Should You Give Your Dog?
The required Piriton dose for dogs depends on the weight.
A typical dose prescription is 0.2 of Piriton tablets per kg of the dog’s body weight. For example, a dog that weighs 5 kg takes 1 mg of Piriton.
You can use the table below to find the approximate dose of Piriton for your dog based on their weight:
| Weight (kg) | Dose (mg) |
| 5 | 1 |
| 10 | 2 |
| 15 | 3 |
| 20 | 4 |
| 25 | 5 |
| 30 | 6 |
| 35 | 7 |
| 40 | 8 |
You can also use Piriton syrup for dogs, which has a concentration of 2 mg per 5 ml.
For example, a dog that weighs 5 kg takes 2.5 ml of Piriton syrup.
You should follow the vet’s instructions on how often to give your dog Piriton, but usually it is given twice a day.
Side Effects of Piriton for Dogs
Piriton is generally safe for dogs, but it can cause some side effects such as:
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Urinary retention
These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but if they persist or worsen, you should contact your vet immediately.[3]
You should also avoid giving your dog Piriton if they have any of the following conditions:
- Glaucoma
- Prostate enlargement
- Heart problems
- Liver problems
- Seizures
You should also check with your vet before giving your dog Piriton if they are taking any other medications, as some drugs may interact with Piriton and cause adverse effects.
Natural Alternatives to Piriton for Dogs
Here are some possible natural alternatives to Piriton for dogs:
a). Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
It can help reduce the production and release of histamine in the body and ease the symptoms of allergies and itching in dogs.
Quercetin can be found in foods such as onions, apples, berries, and kale, or given as a supplement.
b). Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a healthy fat that can benefit your dog’s skin and coat. It can also help soothe and moisturize inflamed and irritated skin caused by allergies.
Coconut oil can be applied topically to your dog’s affected areas or added to their food.
c). Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a plant that has healing and soothing properties. It can help reduce inflammation, itching, and pain caused by allergic reactions in dogs.
Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to your dog’s skin or mixed with coconut oil for extra benefits.
d). Zyrtec: Zyrtec is another brand of antihistamine that contains cetirizine as the active ingredient.
Zyrtec may be more effective than Piriton at treating allergies in dogs and does not usually cause drowsiness. Zyrtec can be given as tablets or syrup, but only under the direction of a vet.
e). CBD Oil: CBD oil is a natural extract from the hemp plant that has many health benefits for dogs.
CBD oil can help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation and pain caused by allergies in dogs. CBD oil can be given orally or applied topically to your dog’s skin.
FAQs
How much Piriton can I give my dog?
A general rule is to give 0.2 of Piriton tablets per kg of your dog’s body weight. For example, a 5 kg dog can take 1 mg of Piriton. You can also use Piriton syrup for dogs, which has a concentration of 2 mg per 5 ml. For example, a 5 kg dog can take 2.5 ml of Piriton syrup. You should always follow the vet’s advice on how much and how often to give your dog Piriton.
Can you use Piriton on dogs?
Piriton is typically safe to provide to dogs and can be a successful therapy for a wide range of environmental allergies, but it should only be used with a veterinarian’s supervision.
Why do dogs take Piriton?
Piriton is a well-known canine antihistamine that can help soothe allergic responses including hay fever, bug stings, and more. Your dog may get agitated, worried, and misbehave as a result of these conditions. In addition, no one enjoys witnessing their canine friend go through such pain.
How long should a dog take Piriton?
Piriton should typically be administered to dogs once every 8 to 12 hours, up to three times a day. It depends on the situation as to how long this will last. Dogs can experience allergic responses that result in itching, runny noses, red or puffy eyes, and excessive paw licking or chewing, just like people can.
Conclusion
Allergies can be very uncomfortable and distressing for dogs, but fortunately, there is a medication that can help them: “Piriton”
By inhibiting the activity of histamine, a substance that causes inflammation and irritation in the body, Piriton is an antihistamine that helps lessen the symptoms of allergies and itching in dogs.
However, Piriton is ineffective in treating allergies and is not permitted for use in animals. Because of this, it’s important to see your veterinarian before giving your dog Piriton and to follow their advice on the dosage and frequency of the medication.
Additionally, you should monitor your dog’s response to Piriton and notify your vet of any adverse effects or changes. By doing this, you can make sure that your dog has a higher quality of life and receives the greatest possible allergy treatment.
References:
- Yuen, M., V. (2020, November 1). Chlorpheniramine maleate: Summary Report. Retrieved June 22, 2023, from – University of Maryland
- Thangam, E. B., Jemima, E. A., Singh, H., Baig, M. M. F. A., Khan, M., Mathias, C. B., Church, M. K., & Saluja, R. (2018). The Role of Histamine and Histamine Receptors in Mast Cell-Mediated Allergy and Inflammation: The Hunt for New Therapeutic Targets. – Frontiers in Immunology
- Chlorpheniramine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing – (n.d.). Retrieved June 22, 2023, from – WebMD
Julia is a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, practicing veterinarian in a non-profit animal hospital and feline sanctuary located in Rochester, NY. She is also a full-time veterinary advisor at DogLikesBest. She focuses on writing healthcare-related topics including dog foods, treats, veterinary diets, food for specific healthcare features, etc. Moreover, any article on DogNeedsBest that has to concern feline health in any way, goes under her scrutiny before being published.
