If your cat’s lethargy persists or you notice other concerning symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian. Look out for: Severe drowsiness or unresponsiveness; Difficulty breathing; Loss of appetite; Vomiting or diarrhea; Recommended Steps to Take. Here are some steps you can take to help your cat: Gabapentin does have a sedative effect in cats, but if your cat seems overly sleepy, it’s best to reach out to your vet. Dr. McCullough also says to call your vet if the effects of gabapentin last longer than 24 hours or if your cat experiences vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or a decreased appetite. Gabapentin was compared with mirtazapine in this study because of the latter’s demonstrated appetite-stimulating effect in cats: the same dose of 1.88 mg/cat PO used in the present work showed positive effects on appetite, weight gain and reduction of vomiting in cats with CKD. 31 In the cited study, appetite was documented by the owners via In summary, veterinarians must be vigilant about potential drug interactions when using gabapentin in cats. They should review the cat’s medical history and current medication regimen thoroughly. Adverse Effects Of Gabapentin For Cats 1. Sedation. Sedation is one of the most common side effects observed in cats taking gabapentin. Yes, Gabapentin can occasionally lead to digestive issues in dogs, especially when used long-term. While gastrointestinal side effects are not common, some dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. This can happen because Gabapentin might slow down the digestive process slightly, leading to mild gastric discomfort. The short answer is that, contrary to some initial concerns, gabapentin generally increases appetite in cats. However, like many medications, its effects can vary, and understanding the full scope of its interaction with feline feeding habits is crucial. For those that have given their cats Gabapentin, did you find any pattern as how far before or after their typical mealtime to time the dose to maximize the chance it will help them eat more? My cat is also on Mirataz mirtazapine ointment the past two days and it hasn't gotten him eating. While gabapentin does not cause loss of appetite in cats and may even increase it, it’s vital to understand its potential side effects and administer it correctly. Consult with your veterinarian for the appropriate dosage and closely monitor your cat’s response to the medication. Took Olive off metacam due to loss of appetite. He’s now on gabapentin for arthritis pain. The pharmacist at the pet pharmacy said it would cause loss of appetite for 2 weeks. My vet said she had never heard of that and we couldn’t find anything about it in her huge vet medication manual. Does [] If your cat is taking gabapentin in capsule or tablet form, mix the prepared powder with a small amount of your cat’s favorite food or a bit of water so they can swallow it easily. If using the liquid form, use the syringe to carefully administer the medication directly into your cat’s mouth, slowly squirting it near the back of the tongue. In cats, gabapentin is most often used as a pain medication for chronic pain, such as from arthritis. Gabapentin is also recognized as beneficial in reducing the fear responses that a kitty may have to the stress of handling and being examined at the vet. While gabapentin is primarily prescribed as an anticonvulsant and analgesic to manage chronic pain, seizures, and anxiety in cats, its effects on appetite are noteworthy. Studies have shown that cats treated with gabapentin tend to eat more than those on a placebo. Increased Appetite: Interestingly, gabapentin has been shown to increase appetite in some cats. These side effects are generally mild and temporary. If you notice these in your cat, or any other concerning changes after administering gabapentin, please contact your veterinarian . While Gabapentin is generally considered safe for cats, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. These can include drowsiness, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal upset. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary, and most cats tolerate Gabapentin well. It is not uncommon for cats to lose their appetite after taking gabapentin. If this occurs, it is important to contact your veterinarian. They can help you to find the best way to get your cat to eat and to monitor for any other side effects. Yes. I experience loss of appetite while taking Gabapentin. At first I would see triggers such as a photo of food or some food smelled tasty and think, "boy, I'd like that" but immediately after I'd think-"but I'm not hungry". Now I don't have triggers. When someone brings donuts to share at work, I'm totally immune. Not interested. Loss of Coordination. Gabapentin can also cause loss of coordination in dogs. This can manifest as stumbling, unsteadiness, or difficulty walking. Dogs may also have trouble jumping or climbing stairs. Increased Appetite and Weight Gain. Some dogs may experience an increase in appetite and weight gain while taking gabapentin. Cats receiving gabapentin ate more than cats in the placebo group. Thirty percent of cats in the gabapentin group covered their resting energy requirements, while none of the cats in the placebo group did. Gabapentin and mirtazapine produced similar effects on food intake. Diarrhea and loss of appetite were the next most common, at about 6.5%. Injection site discomfort was noted in about 11% of cats. This was further explained to be seen as flinching noted occasionally, and most frequently with the first dose. Local reactions at the injection site were reported in about 3-6% of cats. There are several side effects of gabapentin that may manifest in cats, ranging from mild to severe. These side effects can impact the overall health and well-being of your pet, so it is crucial to monitor them closely when they are on this medication.
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