Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication often prescribed to treat stress, chronic pain, and other anxiety disorders in cats. This drug is very safe, with minimal risks and side effects. And pet insurance may cover it if your policy includes coverage for behavioral therapy.
Read on to learn more about gabapentin for cats, how it works, and common side effects to watch out for.
Summary
What is gabapentin?
Gabapentin (branded as Neurontin, Horizant, and Gralise) is an anticonvulsant drug originally developed to treat epilepsy and nerve pain in humans. Gabapentin works by blocking calcium channels, inhibiting certain neurotransmitters in the brain. The result is a reduction in the perception of pain and anxiety. In veterinary medicine, gabapentin is often prescribed “off-label” to manage similar conditions in cats.
What is gabapentin used for in cats?
Gabapentin serves several purposes in feline veterinary medicine, including:
- Painkiller: relieves neuropathic pain, a type of pain caused by a dysfunction of the nervous system
- Medications for anxiety: reduces the fear response before stressful events such as veterinary visits or travel
- Treatment for Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome: a condition characterized by extreme and often painful sensitivity on the cat’s skin
Cats can take a single dose of gabapentin as needed or take it as part of a long-term treatment plan. The drug also works well with other anti-anxiety medications as long as pet owners follow the prescribed dosages.
How is gabapentin given to cats?
Gabapentin for cats is generally administered orally. The compounding pharmacy can prepare it both in capsules and in liquid form. The best medium for your kitten will depend on what he is willing to tolerate.
You can hide the capsules in soft treats or open them and mix the powder into your cat’s food. Cats are known to be picky eaters, so they may eat around the capsules or ignore the food if they find the taste unpleasant. In such a scenario, the liquid formulation may be a better alternative.
Gabapentin in liquid form is usually administered orally with a syringe. Here’s how to do it:
1. To administer the medication safely, you may need to place the cat on your lap and restrain him with a towel or blanket.
2. Let your cat lick the syringe and see if he is receptive to “licking” the medication.
3. If that doesn’t work, gently hold his head and inject the medication into the space between the fangs and premolars.
4. Make sure you aim for the side of the cat’s mouth. It is advisable to deposit the drug in the cat’s tongue, do not force the liquid into the throat to protect it from inhaling liquid into the lungs.
Can gabapentin be mixed with cat food?
Yes, gabapentin can be mixed with cat food. Pet owners can open the capsules and mix the powder with a small amount of food or a tasty treat to mask the taste and make it more palatable to cats.
What is the recommended dosage of gabapentin for cats?
The recommended dose of gabapentin for cats varies depending on their weight, the severity of the condition being treated, and whether they are taking other medications at the same time.
A typical initial dosage ranges from 5 to 15 mg per kilogram of body weight, administered orally every 8 to 12 hours. Your vet may start your cat on a low dose, observe how he tolerates the medication, and adjust the next dose accordingly.
Veterinarians also prescribe higher doses, ranging from 100 to 200 milligrams, to sedate an aggressive or very anxious cat before a trip to the animal hospital.
What are some common side effects of gabapentin in cats?
The most common side effects of gabapentin in cats include:
- Mild sedation
- Drowsiness
- Incoordination (ataxia)
- Dizziness
- Increased appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhea
Fortunately, these side effects are generally mild and will disappear once your cat’s body eliminates the drug. Your vet may start your cat at a low dosage and gradually increase it to see how well he tolerates the drug.
What are some risks of gabapentin for cats?
Although gabapentin is generally considered safe for cats when used as directed, there are some potential risks to be aware of when prescribing it.
The drug should be used with caution (or avoided altogether) if the cat is pregnant. Likewise, cats with liver or kidney disease may not metabolize the drug properly and experience more serious adverse side effects.
There is also a risk of withdrawal symptoms, so pet owners should stop using gabapentin gradually rather than stopping abruptly.
Can a cat overdose on gabapentin?
Cats can overdose on gabapentin, but it doesn’t happen often and is rarely fatal. This drug has a high therapeutic range, meaning it takes a large amount of it for it to be dangerous.
Giving your cat more gabapentin than intended can cause intense side effects. High sedation or drowsiness is not dangerous, but it can put your cat in dangerous situations.
For example, cats who suffer from motion sickness while traveling must be able to stand up and vomit, and extreme sedation can make this very difficult. They may also be prone to falls and unable to react to danger.
If your cat experiences strong side effects, keep him confined and under close supervision until the effects of the drug pass (usually 8 to 12 hours).
Does gabapentin interact with other drugs?
Gabapentin can interact with some medications and supplements, including:
- Antacids: These drugs can reduce the effect of gabapentin and should be administered at least two hours apart from gabapentin.
- Painkillers: Combining gabapentin with opioids such as morphine or hydrocodone increases the risk of severe sedation and other adverse side effects.
How much does gabapentin for cats cost?
The cost of gabapentin depends on the dosage and where you buy it. Online pet care retailers sell this medication, although you are more likely to purchase it directly from your local veterinary clinic.
Cat insurance can cover 70% to 100% of the cost, but this will depend on the terms of the policy and whether the insurer accepts off-label medications.
Gabapentin prescribed to treat anxiety and stress may be covered if your policy includes behavioral modification benefits. If the medication is prescribed for pain management, you will need to check whether the insurer reimburses the cost of non-FDA-approved medications.
Dosage x capsules per bottle
Cost with pet insurance (90% refund)
Summary of Gabapentin for Cats: Use and Dosage
Gabapentin is a safe treatment option for managing various conditions in dogs and cats. Cats can tolerate a wide range of doses with minimal side effects, which are rarely fatal.
Veterinarians often prescribe it to relieve anxiety before a veterinary visit and after surgery. It is also an effective analgesic for chronic pain and feline hyperesthesia syndrome.
That said, it is important to use it under veterinary guidance to minimize side effects and ensure its effectiveness, regardless of whether it is prescribed for short-term or long-term use.