Cats have a reputation for usually being cool and independent pets. However, they are not immune to issues like anxiety, seizures, and arthritis. In this article, we will talk about Gabapentin for cats. Show
Studies suggest that Gabapentin is the most commonly prescribed medication for cats with chronic musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Gabapentin for cats – the uses, the risks, and of course, the dosing instructions. Can I Give My Cat Gabapentin? Yes, you can give your cat Gabapentin but only when the medication is prescribed by the vet. In veterinary medicine, Gabapentin (brand name Neurontin) is used extra-label, but when given correctly with the right dose and frequency, it is both safe and efficient for cats. Before giving your cat Gabapentin, check with your vet about the medication form. The liquid form contains xylitol – an artificial sweetener that is toxic to pets, while the Gabapentin tablets are way too strong for cats and need proper adjustments. When to Use Gabapentin for CatsGabapentin is an anticonvulsant and analgesic medicine. It is particularly efficient in managing neuropathic pain and can be used in conjunction with other anti-pain medication like opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In terms of pharmacology, Gabapentin is a structural analog of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Or, simply put, it mimics GABA’s effects – blocks the brain’s voltage-gated calcium channels, thus reducing calcium currents in the central nervous system. As a result, there is a decrease in the release of excitatory neurotransmitters and efficient control of pain, seizures, and anxiety. Therefore, as you can see, Gabapentin does not affect the pain directly. Instead, it quiets the CNS’s sensitivity to pain. Benefits and Uses of Gabapentin for CatsGenerally speaking, Gabapentin is prescribed by veterinarians for felines suffering from seizures, chronic pain, and anxiety. In cats, chronic pain is usually associated with arthritis and certain types of cancer. Gabapentin for Managing Cat Seizures. Gabapentin is a commonly prescribed adjunctive therapy for cats with idiopathic refractory epilepsy. Gabapentin’s unique working mechanism and effects are often described as “promising.” Gabapentin for Chronic Pain in Cats. Because of the analgesia effects, Gabapentin is used to manage a cat’s chronic pain. According to a study, Gabapentin yields “satisfactory pain management” with “no obvious side effects.” Gabapentin for Anxiety Relief in Cats. In higher doses, Gabapentin features anti-anxiety and sedative effects which can be used to manage feline stress. A study showed that preappointment Gabapentin dosing results in stress-free vet visits. Potential Side Effects and Risks of Gabapentin for CatsIt is possible for cats to have side effects when taking Gabapentin. The good news is that the development of such adverse reactions can be minimized by gradually increasing the Gabapentin doses. The common side effects of Gabapentin for cats include:
In cats with chronic kidney disease, Gabapentin is more likely to cause sedation instead of simple sleepiness. Gabapentin may also trigger false-positive results on urinary protein tests. Gabapentin should be used with precautions in cats with kidney and liver problems as well as pregnant and nursing cats. On the other hand, it should not be used at all in felines sensitive to the active ingredient. Gabapentin Dosage for CatsThe dosing guidelines for Gabapentin in cats usually include the phrase “to effect,” meaning different cats will need different amounts. In general, smaller cats can be given 50-75 mg, while larger cats can be given 75-100 mg. Basically, dosage modifications are allowed as long as you do not exceed the dose of 27 mg per pound of body weight (50 mg per kg). Gabapentin is available in tablets, capsules, and liquid form. However, considering the small Gabapentin doses for cats, asking for your cat’s exact dose in a compounding pharmacy would be more practical. You can give your cat Gabapentin with or without food (in case of a sensitive tummy, it is better to give it with food). If you accidentally skip a dose, either give the missed dose as soon as you remember or skip it completely and give the next dose as scheduled. The important thing is not to double up the Gabapentin amount because of the missed dose. This is because giving your cat too much Gabapentin can result in an overdose and cause:
Finally, if you need to discontinue Gabapentin use, make sure you gradually wean your cat off, ideally over the course of 2 to 3 weeks. Sudden discontinuation, especially after prolonged use, may cause withdrawal seizures. Gabapentin for Cats Usage GuidelinesGabapentin is a fast-acting agent meaning, you will be able to see an improvement in your cat’s condition 24 hours after the administration, but it will need between 7 and 10 days to achieve full efficacy, If the effectiveness of Gabapentin during the early pain management stages is not enough, it can be combined with other pain medications (NSAIDs and opioids), and then after a while, the second drug can be discontinued. It goes without saying that not all drugs are compatible. In these terms, Gabapentin has the potential for drug interactions with the following meds:
When talking to your veterinarian about Gabapentin for your cat, make sure you mention all medications your pet is receiving, including dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbs. If your cat is receiving medications that are not compatible with Gabapentin or is prone to more intense side effects, you should look into potential alternatives. CBD oil for cats is a natural remedy and can help felines with the same issues as Gabapentin. Namely, CBD oil has strong anti-convulsive and anti-epileptic properties and can potentiate the effects of standard seizure medications. CBD oil changes the brain’s response to pain and has natural calming effects, thus supporting relaxation and preventing anxiety. We suggest using the Honest Paws Well CBD Oil or the Calm CBD Soft Chews for cats. Both products are made from organic full-spectrum hemp and are human-grade and vegan. For more convenient use, the CBD treats are salmon-flavored.
This custom blend of relaxing ingredients is paired with a full-spectrum hemp oil and will help your cat with:
Our Final Thoughts on Gabapentin for CatsAlthough initially developed for seizure and chronic pain management, today, Gabapentin is a popular anti-anxiety medication for cats. Gabapentin is commonly prescribed by veterinarians because, in addition to being efficient, it can also be used as adjunctive therapy to potentiate the effects of other medications. Before considering Gabapentin, talk to your trusted veterinarian. Do not forget that the data in this article is purely informative. Sourceshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23253881/ https://avmajournals.avma.org/doi/abs/10.2460/javma.251.10.1175 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6271300/ https://www.dvm360.com/view/new-anticonvulsant-drugs-show-promise-dogs-cats-0 https://www.maddiesfund.org/assets/webcasts/081220%20Webcast/gabapentin-in-community-cats-decreases-fear.pdf Page 2
Finding the perfect diet for your dog can be challenging. Often you have to search to find a quality, vet-approved dog food formula that will satisfy your dog’s nutritional needs and taste requirements. To make things easy for dog owners, we have reviewed premium-quality dog foods that meet high quality and safety standards, and one brand, 4health Dog Food, definitely stood out from the rest. 4Health is a reputable and trustworthy brand that offers wet and dry, adult and puppy formula diets that are full of beneficial and nutritional ingredients that will keep your canine strong, healthy, and happy. 4Health Dog Food Review at a GlanceVeterinarians.org Rating: 4 4Health Dog Food Company Information4Health dog food is a family-owned, private label brand manufactured for the Tractor Supply Company by Diamond Pet Foods, Inc. The Tractor Supply Company (in business since 1938) is the largest rural lifestyle store in the US, selling various home, pet, and farming products. On the other hand, founded in 1970, Diamond Pet Foods is a privately-held enterprise owned by Schell and Kampeter. TSC launched the 4Health premium line of dog food in 2010. With 20% lower prices than most national brands, the company markets this new pet food as budget-friendly and affordable yet supporting optimal health. Where is 4Health Dog Food Made?The Tractor Supply Company has over 1000 locations across the USA, but it is based in Brentwood, Tennessee. However, the 4Health Dog Food is manufactured in the three Diamond Pet Food plants located in Meta, Missouri, Lathrop, California, and Gaston, South Carolina. Most importantly, Diamond’s plants are GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)-certified, and you can find all of the different 4Health dog food and cat formulas across the country in Tractor Supply Company stores. Types of 4Health Dog Food4Health offered dry and canned dog food as well as tasty dog treats and snacks. Here is a list of the different 4Health Dog Food formulas: Where to Buy 4Health Dog Food4Health Dog Food FormulasWe will thoroughly review the 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula for Adult Dogs and then discuss three other 4Health Lines – the 4Health Original Dog Food, the 4Health Grain Free Dog Food, and the 4Health Special Care Dog Food. 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula for Adult DogsSummary: The Salmon & Potato Formula is the most popular 4Health pet food, and with salmon and ocean fish meal as main ingredients (25% crude protein) and 14.0% crude fat, there is a backed-up science behind the diet’s popularity. The salmon and egg products provide protein, and the ocean fish meal and canola oil are rich sources of fats and linoleic omega-6 and linolenic acid omega-3 fatty acids. The formula includes wholesome ingredients like potatoes, peas, and cracked pearled barley. The potatoes, cracked pearled barley, and millet add carbohydrates and the peas are rich in protein. The formula also includes blueberries, cranberries, spinach, dried kelp, apples, carrots which provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. For a better profile, the formula is enriched with folic acid, riboflavin, biotin, niacin, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D supplement, vitamin E supplement, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), selenium, calcium pantothenate, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, zinc sulfate, copper proteinate, potassium iodide, manganous oxide, iron proteinate, and zinc proteinate. The 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula has added probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecium), prebiotics (dried chicory root), and digestive enzymes (Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract) for healthy digestion. It also has chondroitin sulfate (100 mg/kg) and glucosamine hydrochloride (300 mg/kg) for joint health and mobility support. Finally, this dry dog food features Yucca Schidigera extract for better poop quality and less odor and L-carnitine, which speeds up the metabolism, thus supporting lean body and weight management. Pros
Cons
Review: We like the diet’s suitability for dogs allergic to traditional protein sources like chicken and beef. We also like the inclusion of antioxidants, probiotics, and joint-friendly compounds. We dislike the use of tomato pomace and flaxseed as poor fiber sources. All in all, we rate the 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula as Best for Adult Dogs. No Wheat, No Corn, No SoySalmon is the main ingredient Omega Fatty Acids for Skin and CoatHealthy Digestion SupportSummary: For their Original Dog Food, 4Health has sourced high-quality meat to ensure your pet can enjoy nutritious protein that is not a poultry by-product nor contains harmful ingredients. This dog food does not contain corn, soy or wheat, but does contain powerful antioxidants and omega fatty acid for a silky and shiny coat and a healthy immune system. Overall, 4Health Original Dog Food offers a wholesome and beneficial meal for your dog. Pros
Cons Review: We like the salmon as the first ingredient and added health-boosting compounds. We dislike the use of flaxseed oil. All in all, we rate the 4Health Original Dog Food as the Best for Dogs of All Ages. No Corn, No Wheat, No SoySpecies Specific Probiotics for Digestive SupportWhitefish is the #1 IngredientOmega Fatty Acids for Skin and CoatSummary: When your pet has a food allergy, finding the right pet food products can be challenging. But, 4Health Pet Food caters to those with a food allergy by offering a grain-free meal option. With the 4Health Grain Free Dog Food, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog will love its food and is getting the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy. It also contains probiotics that aid digestion, avoid an upset stomach, and help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Pros
Cons
Review: We like the grain-free option, and the use of species-specific probiotics – two factors dogs with allergies can benefit from. We dislike the frequent unavailability. All in all, we rate the 4Health Grain Free Dog Food as the Best for Dogs with Allergies. No Corn, Wheat or SoyLimited-Ingredient DietSpecies-Specific Probiotics for Digestive SupportSummary: The Special Care line of 4Health Pet Food is perfect for dogs with dietary needs and could do with some pet health support. The formulas focus on providing healthy and balanced nutrients while supporting optimal health and well-being. The line includes three different formulas: 4Health Special Care Sensitive Stomach Formula for Adult Dogs, 4Health Special Care Weight Management Formula for Adult Dogs, and 4Health Special Care Sensitive Skin Formula for Adult Dogs Pros
Cons
Review: We like the limited selection of ingredients and added condition-specific components. We dislike that some customers complain about the bag size and price. All in all, we rate the 4Health Special Care Dog Food as the Best for Health Support. Additional 4Health Products4Health Dog Food Ingredient AnalysisThe 4Health Dog Food uses high-quality meat and fat sources (instead of the typical chicken meal and chicken fat), and most importantly, the fish meal is stated to be ethoxyquin-free. Plus, the formulas do not feature GMO ingredients, fillers, and allergens like soy, corn, and wheat. All preservatives and flavors are natural, and 4Health Dog Food regularly uses additional health-boosting ingredients like omega fatty acids, vitamins, chelated minerals, antioxidants, dietary fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and chondroprotectants. Last but not least, 4Health Dog Food is not made of organic ingredients, and the meat sources are not free-range grown or wild-caught from pristine waters. There are also questions regarding the use of ground race without stating whether it is brown rice or white rice. However, the brand offers high-quality and well-paired ingredients or, in simple words, proper nutrition with a reasonable price tag. 4Health Dog Food Recalls: What You Need to KnowDiamond Pet Foods voluntarily recalled 4Health Dog food in May 2012. This was due to the discovery of salmonella contamination on their dog food brands with a best-by date from December 2012 to April 2013. After a thorough investigation, 4Health Dog Food was not found to have salmonella, but the action was taken as a precaution to protect pets across the country. Is 4Health Food Right for Your Dog?Since it is difficult to find a bad review about 4Health Dog Food it is safe to assume that the formula is suitable for your dog’s nutritional and individual needs. In fact, most dog owners are happy with the variety of 4Health Dog Food options and the premium quality they have experienced with the meat and fish meal options. There are customer reviews reporting that their dog is enjoying better skin and a healthier coat after eating 4Health dog food. The wholesome food recipes that subtract the artificial additives and leave in all the best bits also make this pet food stand out from the crowd for being premium but affordable. Our Final Thoughts on 4Health Dog FoodWe believe that 4Health Dog Food offers balanced pet food for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds, shapes, and sizes, as well as catering to allergies and dietary needs. The dog food brand’s overarching goal is to provide quality ingredients and fresh meat that brings a balance of macronutrients to your dog’s diet. This is important for everyday life and making sure your pup stays fit and healthy. Plus, 4Health Dog Food has a rich range of pet foods and treats, allowing you to choose the option that suits you and your dog best. No matter what formula you decide on, rest assured it is wheat, soy, and corn-free, yet full of healthy and wholesome ingredients. Sources(PDF) The role of dietary omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids in the nutrition of dogs and cats: A review (researchgate.net) Can Dogs Eat Peas? – American Kennel Club (akc.org) Ethoxyquin: An Antioxidant Used in Animal Feed (hindawi.com) Feeding your dog salmon can boost its brain power, study finds | London Evening Standard | Evening Standard Utilisation of supplemented l-carnitine for fuel efficiency, as an antioxidant, and for muscle recovery in Labrador retrievers (nih.gov) |
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