Gabapentin for cats: Safe dosages and uses

Concern about the unnecessary suffering of our felines, whether due to chronic pain or stress-induced anxiety, is common among cat owners. It is important to know that gabapentin is a medication frequently used to relieve these symptoms.

Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of gabapentin in the treatment of anxiety and fear in cats, especially before and during visits to the veterinarian.

Depending on usage, many pet insurance policies cover the costs of gabapentin for cats, making it a viable option to ensure that your feline companion lives free from pain, fear, and anxiety.

What is gabapentin used for in cats?

Veterinarians often prescribe gabapentin to treat chronic pain, seizures, and to address fear, anxiety, and stress (FAE) in cats.

Dr. María González, a veterinarian and regional medical director of a well-known network of veterinary clinics, explains that professionals often prescribe gabapentin to help reduce anxiety in cats during veterinary visits, travel, or changes in their environment, including the introduction of new family members or new pets.

“Veterinarians have found that administering a single dose of gabapentin before a visit can reduce a cat's FAE and make its trip to the veterinarian more comfortable for the feline, more pleasant for the owner, and more successful for the veterinarian and the hospital staff,” says González.

Originally approved by health authorities as an anticonvulsant and for neuropathic pain in humans, gabapentin is now unofficially used by veterinarians, even in cats.

“Increasingly prescribed by veterinarians, the main uses of gabapentin in cats include anxiolytic and analgesic effects, as well as treating joint diseases such as arthritis,” says Dr. Carlos Rodríguez, veterinarian and co-host of a popular pet radio show.

Rodríguez adds that, to a lesser extent, veterinarians also use gabapentin to help reduce seizures in cats.

For pain management, gabapentin is more effective when administered in combination with other analgesics, according to González.

Is it safe to administer gabapentin to cats?

When used as directed and administered at the recommended dose, gabapentin is safe for cats.

“Gabapentin is not only safe but remarkably effective,” says Rodríguez.

When owners can administer gabapentin to cats

Veterinarians will conduct a thorough medical examination, consider the cat's medical history, and take into account any other medications and supplements the feline may be taking before prescribing gabapentin.

When owners should not administer gabapentin to cats

Gabapentin should not be administered to your cat for the following reasons:

• The cat is being treated with benzodiazepines such as diazepam or alprazolam, opioids such as morphine and hydrocodone, or antihistamines such as diphenhydramine.
• The cat has a serious kidney disease or is on a special diet to manage a kidney disease
• The cat is pregnant

“Gabapentin is a prescription medication and should not be administered without the guidance of a veterinarian,” warns Dr. Juan Pérez, veterinarian and spokesperson for a major pet insurance company.

What is a safe dose of gabapentin for cats?

Gabapentin is available in various forms, including:

• Capsules in formulations of 100 mg or 300 mg
• Liquid with a concentration of 50 mg/ml

The safe dosage of gabapentin for cats will depend on each individual feline, including its weight and medical history, as well as the reason for the prescription.

“The dose of gabapentin varies depending on the cat's weight, its condition, and the response to treatment,” explains González. “It is crucial to consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dose and frequency of administration.”

In general, gabapentin is prescribed as follows:

• To reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in cats: administer 50 mg to 200 mg once, approximately 1.5 hours before a veterinary visit.
• For pain management ( as part of a multimodal approach ): it starts with 5 mg/kg every eight hours. It can be adjusted up to 10 mg/kg every eight hours.

Can cats overdose on gabapentin?

It is possible for a cat to suffer an overdose of gabapentin, but it is generally not fatal, according to Rodríguez.

“(A gabapentin overdose) can include undesirable symptoms such as explosive diarrhea, lethargy, or extreme drowsiness and incoordination,” warns Rodríguez.

Can I give gabapentin to my cat every day?

If indicated by your veterinarian, gabapentin can be administered daily to cats, says Pérez.

It is important to strictly follow your veterinarian's prescription to avoid an overdose in your cat.

Side effects of gabapentin in cats

When gabapentin is administered to them, especially before a veterinary visit, cats generally experience a reduction in stress and anxiety, as well as fear during the consultation, according to Pérez.

Other positive effects of gabapentin in cats include:

• Decrease in pain
• Reduction of anxiety
• Greater comfort
• Improved appetite
• Greater mobility

There are negative side effects of gabapentin that cat owners should watch for, including:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Incoordination
• Disorientation

“If these signs are observed, contact your veterinarian to adjust the dosage or decide whether to discontinue the treatment,” advises Pérez.

How long does it take for gabapentin to take effect?

Gabapentin is a fast-acting medication and generally starts to take effect within the first few hours after administration, Rodríguez notes. He adds that pain relief may vary for each cat receiving gabapentin.

“Relief for cats with post-surgical or traumatic pain and those with extreme anxiety issues is generally felt within the first few hours, but relief for arthritis may take weeks to reach its optimal effect,” explains Rodríguez.

Rodríguez adds that in older cats and cats with kidney disease, it may take longer to experience pain relief with gabapentin.

How long does gabapentin stay in a cat's system?

In most healthy cats, gabapentin should be eliminated from the system within four to eight hours, according to Pérez.

Rodríguez points out that in older cats and those with kidney disease, not only will it take much longer for gabapentin to be eliminated from the cat's body, but the feline may also experience dizziness and flu-like symptoms.

Conclusion

With proper care and guidance from your veterinarian, gabapentin can be used safely and effectively to treat pain, seizures, and anxiety in cats.

However, since the dosage is very specific for each cat and each use, it is important that you visit your veterinarian for a complete examination and an assessment to determine if your cat is a good candidate for this medication.

“Before considering gabapentin for your cat, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian who is familiar with your feline's medical history. They will evaluate the potential benefits, examine any underlying conditions, and determine the appropriate dosage for your cat's specific needs,” concludes González.