Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my dog shaking and panting after pain meds and antibiotics?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | unspayed | 9 years and 9 months old | 11 lbs

Is it normal for my dog to be shaking and panting after giving her a pain killer shot(just liquid not a needle) to her gums and antibiotics prescribed by the vet? Her lower half is shaking as she is laying on her weewee pad. She is awake and responsive.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on December 10th, 2017

Poor Winnie! Try not to panic at this point, sometimes dogs can have odd reactions to medication. It really depends what sort of pain killer, if it is some sort of opioid such as buprenorphine/methadone etc then shaking is very commonly seen as it enters the nervous system. However with other painkillers such as metacam etc then it wouldn't be so common. Secondly, a dog can always have an allergic reaction to any medication so if this is a medication she has never had before I would consider calling your vet for advice if her condition does not improve. Finally, there is always a possibility that something else is going on. I would double check that you gave the correct dose of medicine, and if not and you overdosed ring your vet immediately for advice or to be seen. If she continues to deteriorate I would take her into the vet in case she is having a medication reaction or it could be that her original condition is getting worse or developing. But most importantly try not to panic for now, monitor her in a calm and comfy environment. Shaking can be incredibly common with many pain killers and they can also cause drooling and odd behaviour. If she becomes sick or starts to loose consciousness please go to the vet. If you want to post again with the name of the medications and dosages I can advise you better as to their specific side effects.

Vote icon

6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniela Jessen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Shaking and panting may be signs of pain and it does seem like your dog is undergoing a treatment for a condition which requires pain relief. if the shaking and the panting are present immediately after giving the pain medication it may be that it hasn’t had an affect yet and I would monitor closely in the next hour for any relief. If it persists beyond that I would contact your vet as there is a condition in the background and she may need more pain relief.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my dog or cat shaking? When should I see a veterinarian?
Concerned your pet is shaking? Veterinarian Todd Cecil discusses common causes like hypothermia, metabolic disorders, and seizures. He recommends a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?
Is your pet's eye issue painless? A DVM explains potential corneal trauma or scratch. Immediate vet care is crucial to save their eye. Get expert advice now!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored