Gabapentin for cats: safe dosages and uses

No one wants to see their cats suffer unnecessarily, whether from chronic pain or stress-induced anxiety. Owners should know that gabapentin is a commonly used medication to help alleviate these symptoms.

Additionally, gabapentin is also effective in treating anxiety and fear in cats, especially before and during veterinary visits.

Depending on the usage, many insurance policies will cover the costs of gabapentin for cats, making it a reasonable option to ensure that your pet lives a life free of 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. Paige Baker, veterinary physician and regional medical director of Gate Pets, a nationwide veterinary service, states that veterinarians often prescribe gabapentin for cats to help reduce anxiety during veterinary visits, travel, or other 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 the trip to the veterinarian more comfortable for the cat, more enjoyable for the owner, and more successful for the veterinarian and the hospital staff,” explains Baker.

Gabapentin was originally approved by the FDA as an anticonvulsant and for nerve pain in humans, and now veterinarians use it unofficially, even with cats.

“Prescribed more frequently by veterinarians, the main uses of gabapentin in cats include anxiolytic effects, analgesic properties, and to neutralize joint diseases such as arthritis,” says Dr. Michael Fleck, veterinarian and co-host of the nationally broadcast radio program The Pet Buzz.

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

For pain management, gabapentin is more effective when administered in combination with other analgesics, Baker notes.

Is it safe to administer gabapentin to cats?

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

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

When can owners 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 cat 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 Valium and Xanax, opioids like morphine and hydrocodone, or antihistamines like Benadryl
• 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 prescribed medication and should not be administered without the guidance of a veterinarian,” says Dr. Preston Turano, veterinarian and spokesperson for Gate Pets Insurance.

What is a safe dose of gabapentin for cats?

Gabapentin comes 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 cat, including weight and medical history, as well as the reason for the prescription.

“The dose of gabapentin varies according to the cat's weight, condition, and response to treatment,” says Baker. “It is crucial to consult with 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 visit to the veterinarian.
• For pain management ( as part of a multimodal approach ): Start 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 overdose on gabapentin, but it is usually not fatal, according to Fleck.

“(A gabapentin overdose) may include undesirable symptoms such as explosive diarrhea, lethargy, or extreme drowsiness and incoordination,” says Fleck.

Can I give gabapentin to my cat every day?

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

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

Side Effects of Gabapentin in Cats

When gabapentin is administered to them, especially before a visit to the veterinarian, cats often experience a reduction in stress and anxiety, as well as fear during the visit, says Turano.

Other positive side effects of gabapentin in cats include:

• Decrease in pain
• Decrease in anxiety
• Improvement of comfort
• Improved appetite
• Improvement of mobility

There are negative side effects of gabapentin that cat owners should be aware of, including:

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

“If you notice these signs, contact your veterinarian to adjust the dosage or decide whether it should be discontinued,” says Turano.

How long does it take for gabapentin to start taking effect?

Gabapentin is a fast-acting drug and usually starts to take effect within the first few hours after administration, Fleck states. He adds that pain relief may vary for each cat to which gabapentin is administered.

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

Fleck adds that in older cats and those suffering from 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 leave the system within four to eight hours, says Turano.

Fleck notes that in older cats and those suffering from kidney disease, it will not only take much longer for gabapentin to be cleared from the cat's body, but the cat may also experience dizziness and flu-like symptoms.

Conclusion

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

However, since the dosage is very specific for each cat and each use, it is important to visit your veterinarian for a thorough examination and evaluation to determine if your cat is a good candidate for the medication.

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