Generic Zyrtec (cetirizine) is generally safe for dogs and commonly used by veterinarians to treat allergies, itching, and sneezing. It is important to use only plain cetirizine and avoid Zyrtec-D, which contains harmful pseudoephedrine. Common side effects include drowsiness or, rarely, hyperactivity. Always consult a veterinarian for the correct dosage based on your dog's weight.

Can dogs have generic Zyrtec?

Absolutely. Zyrtec or Benadryl can be used; both are very safe for dogs.

What is the difference between Zyrtec and generic Zyrtec?

It's the exact same drug. The only differences will be in the inactive ingredients of the pill, and even then they will be purely cosmetic stuff. Anything required for the drug to work is copied exactly. If you buy brand name products you're paying heaps extra for a brand name and a easier to swallow coating.

What mg of Zyrtec is safe for dogs?

Usually, I will start with 5mg Zyrtec in a small dog (under 20 pounds) once a day, and 10mg Zyrtec once a day in medium-sized dogs (who weigh 20-60 pounds), and 10 mg twice a day in larger breed dogs (60+ pounds).

What do vets say about Zyrtec for dogs?

Talk to your dog's vet before administering Zyrtec or other drugs. Important Note: While standard Zyrtec is safe for dogs, never give a dog Zyrtec-D. The “D” in its name stands for decongestant—in this case, one called pseudoephedrine, which is toxic for dogs.

Zyrtec For Dogs With Allergies

Is Zyrtec hard on dogs' kidneys?

If your dog struggles with kidney or liver problems, giving them Zyrtec could make the problem worse. This is because Zyrtec can cause urine retention in animals. This isn't too serious of an issue if your dog is healthy beforehand, but it could exacerbate preexisting issues in your pet.

What are the side effects of generic Zyrtec?

Common side effects of cetirizine

• Feeling sleepy or tired. Try a different non-drowsy antihistamine.
• Headaches. Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. ...
• Dry mouth. Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free sweets.
• Feeling sick (nausea) ...
• Feeling dizzy. ...
• Diarrhoea. ...
• Sore throat. ...
• Sneezing or blocked and runny nose.

Is generic Zyrtec ok?

CONCLUSIONS: These findings show that the generic product Cetrizin®(cetirizine) is comparable to Zyrtec®(cetirizine) and Aerius® (desloratadine) as an antihistaminic and antiallergic efficacy among allergic rhinitis patients based on skin prick test reaction.

Does Zyrtec help with dog itching?

Cetirizine (Zyrtec®, Reactine®) is an antihistamine used to treat and prevent pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect bite reactions in cats and dogs. It may also be used for respiratory allergy symptoms. Its use in cats and dogs is off label (extra label).

What is the new warning on Zyrtec?

The main new warning for Zyrtec (cetirizine) from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), issued in May 2025, concerns a rare but severe itching (pruritus) that can occur when stopping long-term use (months to years) of Zyrtec or Xyzal (levocetirizine). This itching can start within days of stopping the drug, may be widespread, and sometimes requires medical attention, with restarting the medication or tapering off slowly often providing relief.
 

Is it better to buy name brand or generic drugs?

In a further bit of reassurance, the FDA continues to monitor generic drugs after they've been approved. So if you're taking a generic version of a drug, you can rest assured that you're getting the same benefits from it as from the more expensive brand-name version.

How long does it take for generic Zyrtec to kick in?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine. It works by blocking histamine, a chemical in the body that can cause allergy symptoms. Zyrtec typically takes about 20 to 60 minutes to start working and generally lasts about 24 hours.

Is human Zyrtec safe for canine use?

Antihistamines. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®), and loratadine (Claritin®) are commonly used antihistamines that relieve allergy symptoms or counteract allergic reactions in humans. Antihistamines are usually safe for dogs but can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive.

What are Zyrtec's side effects for dogs?

The standard cetirizine dosage for dogs is 1 milligram per kilogram of body weight (0.45 mg/lb) or 10–20 mg/dog every 12–24 hours. The most common side effects of cetirizine in dogs are vomiting, excessive salivation, and drowsiness. Do not give cetirizine to dogs allergic to cetirizine or hydroxyzine.

What is the best antihistamine for a dog?

Zyrtec has become the new first-line drug for dog allergy, largely because of its convenient dosing schedule. Although individual response to antihistamines does vary greatly, this year our clients are seeing a higher response rate than with Benedryl.

What is the best generic for Zyrtec?

Cetirizine 10 mg Antihistamine Tablets Generic for Zyrtec 24 Hour Allergy Tablets 100 Tablets per Bottle Pack of 2 Total 200 Tablets.

Does Zyrtec help with itching?

Each antihistamine tablet is formulated with 10 mg of cetirizine hydrochloride to help reduce hives and relieve itching due to hives (urticaria). These antihistamine tablets start to work fast to reduce hives and relieve hive-related itching in under 45 minutes.

What is the best time of day to take Zyrtec?

Wondering when is the best time to take allergy medicine? The great news is that you can take ZYRTEC® at any time of the day!

What's safer for dogs, Benadryl or Zyrtec?

Comparison of Benadryl and Zyrtec for Dogs

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is a second-generation antihistamine that is considered to be safer and more effective than first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine, with less sedation 3.

How long does it take for Zyrtec to take effect in dogs?

ZYRTEC® starts working at hour 1 and stays strong day after day, so you can reduce your cat and dog allergy symptoms.

What can I give my dog for allergies?

Some human medications can be used to treat mild allergy symptoms in dogs—but only under guidance from your veterinarian. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): A common option, given at 1 mg per pound of body weight, up to every eight hours. For example, a 25 mg tablet can treat a 25-pound dog.

How many days in a row does Zyrtec take?

Is it okay to take ZYRTEC® over a long period of time? The ZYRTEC® package label doesn't state a limit on how long you can take ZYRTEC®. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions, especially if you're taking other medicines or being treated for any other conditions.

What does antihistamine do for dogs?

Antihistamines for dogs block histamine to relieve mild allergy symptoms like itching, hives, sneezing, and inflammation, and can also help with motion sickness and mild anxiety, but they don't cure the root cause of chronic allergies, often causing drowsiness as a main side effect. While common ones like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are used, they're less effective for chronic skin itch than prescription meds and must be given as plain formulas, free from decongestants, xylitol, or alcohol, always with vet guidance.
 

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