PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION - RX Required
Trazodone is a prescription medication commonly used in veterinary medicine to manage anxiety, stress, and behavioral issues in dogs and cats. This serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) helps to increase serotonin levels in the brain, promoting a calming effect. It is particularly useful for pets experiencing separation anxiety, noise phobias, or stress from changes in their environment.
Indications:
- Management of anxiety and stress
- Treatment of behavioral disorders
- Assistance in calming pets before veterinary visits or grooming
- Aid in alleviating noise phobias (e.g., thunderstorms, fireworks)
Key Benefits:
- Effective in reducing anxiety and stress
- Helps manage behavioral issues
- Promotes a calming effect
- Suitable for both dogs and cats
- Can be used for short-term or long-term management
Dosage Information:
- Dogs: The typical dosage for dogs is 2.5-3.5 mg per pound (5-7 mg per kg) of body weight, given by mouth every 8-24 hours as needed. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage based on your dog's specific condition and response to the medication.
- Cats: The typical dosage for cats is 1-2 mg per pound (2-4 mg per kg) of body weight, given by mouth every 12-24 hours as needed. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage based on your cat's specific condition and response to the medication.
Administration:
- Administer Orally: Trazodone can be given with or without food. If your pet experiences stomach upset, administer the medication with food.
- Dosage Adherence: Follow your veterinarian's prescribed dosage and frequency. Do not abruptly stop the medication without consulting your veterinarian, as it may require gradual tapering.
- Monitoring: Observe your pet for any adverse reactions or changes in behavior. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Precautions:
- For veterinary use only; not for human use.
- Do not use in pets with known hypersensitivity to trazodone or any of its components.
- Use with caution in pets with a history of cardiac disease, seizures, or liver or kidney dysfunction.
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Contact your veterinarian if your pet shows signs of an allergic reaction or if the condition does not improve.