Anxiety treatment: Gabapentin is used for stressful events. For example, if given 2–3 hours before a vet visit, gabapentin can help keep a cat calm during the visit, and its effects quickly fall off after 8-12 hours, so they are quickly back to normal. Seizure control: Gabapentin is used long-term to manage recurring seizures. Other Does Gabapentin Make Your Cat Thirsty? Gabapentin is not typically associated with increased thirst in cats, but it’s important to monitor any changes in your cat’s behavior when starting a new medication. A study involving 47 hyperthyroid cats revealed that cats receiving a gabapentin dose of 20 mg/kg were notably more relaxed during transport and compliant during veterinary procedures. This outcome underscores gabapentin’s effectiveness as an anxiolytic, showcasing its ability to reduce stress and improve compliance in clinical settings 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. And in the case of you not knowing yet what the issue is, gabapentin is also used to help relieve anxiety in animals. It is considered safe for long term use which is why it is one of the most common pain relievers prescribed (in humans, dogs, cats, etc) So I’m theory it’s should be offering your cat some pain relief. Gabapentin should be stored at a temperature of 77°F (25°C) in a dry place, protected from light, and inaccessible to children and pets. Certain oral solutions should be kept in the refrigerator Customer: My cat has had increased thirst with excessive drinking after taking gabapentin. Why would this occur? She has blood work two weeks ago. Very mildly elevated kidneys and normal sugar levels. According to pet experts and veterinarians, the safe dose of gabapentin for treating seizures in cats is 2-5mg/lb or 5-10mg/kg every 8 to 12 hours. For feline pain, the ideal amount of the medicine is 1.25 to 2 mg/kg every 12 hours. Do not give gabapentin to cats who are allergic or hypersensitive to it. Use gabapentin with caution in cats with decreased liver function or kidney disease. Since the drug is processed through the kidneys, it can pose risks for cats with kidney problems. Gabapentin can cause birth defects and fetal loss. Gabapentin is used in cats to treat chronic pain, especially of neuropathic origin and anxiety. For pain, this drug seems to be most effective when combined with other types of analgesics (for Typically, a cat on gabapentin will experience a degree of sedation, which may manifest as mild lethargy and reduced activity. Some cats may become wobbly or uncoordinated, especially initially, as the medication takes effect. Gabapentin for Cats: FAQs. Some of the most common questions people ask about gabapentin for cats include: What does gabapentin do to cats? As discussed above, gabapentin is a specific medication that can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, but it is mostly used as an anticonvulsant. This means that it can be used to treat seizures When used correctly, gabapentin is a safe drug for felines with few negative side effects. Cats who take gabapentin frequently experience minor drowsiness or lethargy as a side effect, but this usually passes after some time. When Does a Cat Need Gabapentin? Gabapentin is a drug that many vets swear by. ©Beach Creatives/Shutterstock.com Gabapentin should be used cautiously in cats with significant liver or kidney disease, since it may take longer for the effects to wear off. Avoid giving gabapentin to pregnant or nursing cats. Gabapentin can cross the placenta and enter the mother’s milk. Does gabapentin interact with any other cat medications? Gabapentin is commonly prescribed in cats for pain and sedation. There are few safe, long-term pain medications approved for cats. Gabapentin is given orally to cats and can often be compounded into flavored liquids to make it easier to give to your cat. Customer: My cat has had increased thirst with excessive drinking after taking gabapentin. Why would this occur? She has blood work two weeks ago. Very mildly elevated kidneys and normal sugar levels. Some cats don't have such a strong sedated reaction to it. Others do. I have one guy who doesn't really react to it at all. I have another cat who gets almost comatose from half a capsule. The side effects also diminish over time as your cat gets used to it and builds up a tolerance. Gabapentin is a short-acting drug and should stop working within 24 hours, even though effects can last longer in cats with kidney or liver disease. The most common side effects of Gabapentin include sleepiness, occasional diarrhea, and incoordination. Common Concerns and Answers Related to Gabapentin Side Effects for Cats: 1. Concern: Will Gabapentin make my cat drowsy? Answer: Drowsiness is a common side effect of Gabapentin in cats, especially when they first start taking the medication. If your cat suffers from chronic pain or seizures, your vet might prescribe gabapentin to ease his discomfort or prevent neurological episodes. The drug can put a new spring in your geriatric kitty's step. If your oldster doesn't move much anymore due to chronic arthritis, ask your vet about gabapentin.
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