Methocarbamol for Pets: Muscle Relaxant for Spasms, Tetanus, Myositis

Published on September 10th, 2024

Updated on October 15th, 2025

Reviewed by Petco's Veterinarian Team

Methocarbamol is a skeletal muscle relaxant.

Summary

Used For:

Muscle spasms, tetanus, myositis, intervertebral disc pain associated with primary musculoskeletal disease or toxic agents

Brands:

Robaxin, Robaxin-V

Species:

Dogs, cats and horses

Drug type:

Muscle-relaxer

Prescription required:

Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Safety in pregnant or lactating animals has not been established.

Side effects:

Weakness, dizziness, salivation, sedation

General description

Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant. It is used to treat muscle spasms in dogs, cats and other pets. It is also used in the treatment of strychnine poisoning, tetanus and other toxicities.

Uses

Tetanus, muscle spasms, myositis

How it works

Methocarbamol works by stopping the signal that causes contraction of the muscle from the nerve, resulting in muscle relaxation.

Dosage

**Dogs and Cats**: 22-44 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth every 8 hours. Higher doses may be necessary depending on the severity of disease.

Forms

Methocarbamol is available in 500 and 750 milligram tablets.

Storage information & handling

Store tablets in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.

What results can I expect?

Muscle relaxation occurs quickly after giving the medication, but the effects only last for 8 hours in small animals. This is why it is often given three times per day.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose can cause sedation, weakness and dizziness.

Side effects

May include: * Sedation * Dizziness * Salivation * Vomiting

Contraindications

*Do not use with medications that cause effects on the central nervous system.

Drug interactions

No known drug interactions.

Precaution

Do not use with other drugs that suppress the central nervous system or cause sedation. Safety in pets that are pregnant or lactating is unknown.

Sources

*Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs* *VIN Veterinary Drug Handbook*

Disclaimer
The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.

Health & Wellbeing

Methocarbamol for Pets: Muscle Relaxant for Spasms, Tetanus, Myositis

Summary

Used For:

Brands:

Species:

Drug type:

Prescription required:

Pregnancy and lactation:

Side effects:

General description

Uses

How it works

Dosage

Forms

Storage information & handling

What results can I expect?

Missed Dosage

Overdose / acute toxicity

Side effects

Contraindications

Drug interactions

Precaution

Sources

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