Zyrtec (cetirizine) is generally considered better and safer for daily, long-term management of dog allergies due to its non-sedating, once-daily dosing. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is effective for acute, immediate allergic reactions but causes significant sedation and requires 2-3 daily doses. Always consult a vet for the correct dosage.

Is it safe to give a dog Benadryl and Zyrtec together?

You can also give Zyrtec in the AM in combination with the Benadryl at night, 5mg per day for a small dog and 10mg for a large dog.

Which one is better, Benadryl or Zyrtec?

Both Benadryl and Zyrtec can treat allergies and you can take either medicine. However, in general, newer, nonsedating, second generation antihistamines like Zyrtec are preferred over older, sedating, first generation antihistamines like Benadryl because they are safer, more effective, and cause fewer side effects.

Which is better for dogs' allergies, Benadryl or Zyrtec?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is often preferred over Benadryl (diphenhydramine) for dogs because it causes less drowsiness and has fewer anticholinergic side effects, though Benadryl might work faster for immediate relief; Zyrtec (0.5mg/lb once daily) is generally safer and newer, while Benadryl (1mg/lb 2-3x daily) requires caution with conditions like glaucoma but can help with anxiety/motion sickness due to its sedative effect, but always consult your vet first, ensuring plain formulas without xylitol.

What's the best antihistamine for pet allergies?

Prescription antihistamines in a nasal spray include azelastine and olopatadine (Patanase). Antihistamine tablets available without a prescription include fexofenadine (Allegra Allergy), loratadine (Claritin, Alavert), cetirizine (Zyrtec Allergy) and levocetirizine (Xyzal Allergy).

Which Is Better For Dogs: Zyrtec Or Benadryl? - PetGuide360.com

How long does it take for Zyrtec to work on dogs?

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

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.

Which antihistamine is best for itching in dogs?

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): 1mg per pound (one 25mg tablet for a 25lb dog) twice daily. May be sedating – may be beneficial to use an night to aid sleeping. Dogs > 60 lbs: 50mg PER POUND of combined EPA and DHA daily. recommend “Welactin” due to it's high-potency and purity.

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 do vets recommend for dog allergies?

There are several ways to manage your dog's allergies. Antihistamines and fatty acid supplements can reduce the allergic response. Special shampoos and rinses can help alleviate symptoms too. In severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe steroids to help with intense itching.

How much Zyrtec can I give my dog per day?

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) ¼ - ½ mg per pound (one 10mg tab per 30-40 lbs) twice daily. Loratadine (Claritin): ¼ mg per pound (half of a 10mg tablet per 20 lbs) once daily. Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1): 0.02mg per pound (one 1.34mg tablet per 65lb dog) twice daily.

What foods should dogs with allergies avoid?

Often in dogs with food sensitivities, proteins from animal or plant-based ingredients in the diet are the cause. Beef, corn, dairy, and wheat are some of the most problematic ingredients. It may seem counterintuitive, but it can take a long time for symptoms of food allergies to become apparent.

Does Benadryl really help dogs with allergies?

Yes, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can help dogs with mild allergic reactions, insect bites, and motion sickness by reducing symptoms like itching, sneezing, and swelling, but it's not a cure and often needs vet guidance for proper dosing (around 1mg/lb) and to ensure it's safe for your dog's specific health conditions, avoiding formulations with decongestants. For chronic or severe allergies, it's a temporary fix, and other treatments might be needed, so always consult your veterinarian first. 

Why use Zyrtec instead of Benadryl?

There are several differences between them. Zyrtec is typically taken once a day and lasts longer than Benadryl, which is taken every 4 to 6 hours. Zyrtec also tends to cause fewer side effects than Benadryl. Because Benadryl causes drowsiness for most people, it can also be taken for occasional sleeping difficulties.

Does Zyrtec help if dogs are itchy?

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 should you not mix with Zyrtec?

This medication may also interact with the following: Alcohol. Antihistamines for allergy, cough, and cold. Certain medications for bladder problems, such as oxybutynin or tolterodine.

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