Trazodone For Cats (Uses, Side Effects & Safety)

Our cats hold a special place in our hearts, and their well-being is a top priority for any cat owner. Occasionally, many cats experience anxiety and other behavioral issues that can be challenging for them and their owner. Trazodone is a popular potential solution for addressing these issues in cats. 

An anti-anxiety medication commonly used in dogs, trazodone may be able to provide your cat with relief from anxiety-inducing events like vet visits, fireworks, moving, or anything else that might cause emotional distress. Keep reading to learn more about trazodone for cats and how it may be able to help yours. 

• What is Trazodone?
• Is Trazodone Safe for Cats?
• Trazodone Uses in Cats
• Trazodone Side Effects
• Trazodone Safety
• FAQs
• Final Notes

What is Trazodone? 

Trazodone (trazodone hydrochloride) is an oral medication originally developed for human use. It belongs to a class of drugs known as serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs) and primarily affects the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, to help regulate mood. 

In human medicine, trazodone is commonly prescribed to treat conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, and insomnia. It works by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain, which can lead to improvements in mood, reductions in anxiety, and better quality sleep.¹ Most notably, trazodone for cats is given in anticipation of stressful events for temporary relief. 

Is Trazodone Safe for Cats? 

Trazodone can be used in cats and dogs, but its safety and effectiveness should be determined by a veterinarian on a case-by-case basis. While trazodone for cats can provide relief for various behavioral issues, it's crucial to be aware of potential side effects and to administer the medication under professional guidance. 

The most common and often desired effect of trazodone in pets is sedation, which can help reduce anxiety in cats and promote relaxation. However, while trazodone is generally well tolerated by cats, some pets may experience adverse effects, including gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.²

In rare cases, trazodone may cause disinhibition, potentially leading to increased aggression and undesirable behavior. It's important to closely monitor your pet for any signs of adverse reactions while using trazodone and to discontinue the medication if such issues arise.³ 

When considering trazodone for your cat, inform your veterinarian about any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, as there may be potential interactions to consider. 

The safety and appropriateness of trazodone as a treatment option should always be discussed with your veterinarian to ensure the well-being of your feline friend. 

Trazodone Uses in Cats

Trazodone in cats can be a valuable tool for managing various behavioral issues in cats. Common symptoms and conditions that trazodone can help treat include: 

• Vocalizing: Excessive vocalization, often stemming from anxiety or fear. 
• Pacing: Restlessness and repetitive movement, which can be a sign of anxiety. 
• Yawning: Frequent yawning can be a manifestation of stress or anxiety in cats and dogs. 
• Destructive behavior: This may involve scratching furniture, excessive grooming, or other destructive actions related to anxiety. 
• Hiding: Cats may hide as a coping mechanism when anxious or scared. 
• Trying to escape: Attempting to flee or escape from a particular situation or environment due to fear or anxiety. 

Conditions that trazodone for cats treats include:

• Anxiety: Trazodone is primarily used to alleviate situational anxiety in cats, which can be manifested as any of the above symptoms. It's not commonly used as a daily medication. Rather, it's used in anticipation of stressful events. 
• Phobias: This medication could be effective in managing phobias, such as fear of thunderstorms, fireworks, or other loud noises. 
• Behavioral disorders: Trazodone for cats may help in the treatment of various behavioral disorders, such as separation anxiety or compulsive behaviors. 

Trazodone Side Effects 

Again, trazodone for cats is generally well tolerated. However, like any medication, there is a risk of side effects. The most common side effects of trazodone are sedation and digestive issues. Typically, these symptoms are mild and will go away as the medication wears off. Less common side effects may include: 

• Increased anxiety or agitation: Some cats may exhibit heightened anxiety or agitation as a reaction to the medication. 
• Aggression: In rare cases, trazodone can increase aggression in pets. 
• Increased heart rate: An elevated heart rate, also known as tachycardia, can occur as a side effect. 
• Vocalization: Unusual vocalization, such as whining or crying, can occur as a side effect. 
• Weakness or lack of coordination: Some cats may experience weakness or a lack of coordination as a reaction to trazodone. 
• Seizures: Although infrequent, seizures can also occur as a side effect of trazodone for cats.⁴ 

If you notice any of the above symptoms, contact your vet immediately for the next steps. 

Trazodone Safety

When used and prescribed under the guidance of a veterinarian, trazodone can be a safe and effective medication for managing certain behavioral issues in cats. It's important to follow your vet's instructions closely, including the recommended trazodone dosage for cats and the administration schedule. 

Trazodone toxicosis can occur when a cat ingests too much trazodone, leading to potential overdose and adverse effects. Symptoms of trazodone toxicosis can vary and may include increased heart rate, disorientation, seizures, tremors, or even more severe effects.⁵ It's crucial to store trazodone and any medications out of your cat's reach and follow dosing instructions precisely. If you suspect your cat has ingested an excessive amount of trazodone, seek immediate veterinary assistance. 

It's important to note that trazodone is sometimes prescribed alongside other behavioral medications, and there's a potential risk of serotonin syndrome when combining these medications, especially in large doses. Serotonin syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can occur when there's an excess of serotonin in the body. This condition can be life-threatening and is most likely to occur when a pet consumes too much of these drugs.⁶

To reduce the risk of serotonin syndrome, always follow your veterinarian's advice closely when administering trazodone or any other behavioral medication to your cat. Your veterinarian will consider your cat's specific health and medical history to make informed decisions about the medication, dosage, and potential interactions. This is why it's crucial to inform your vet about any other medications or supplements your cat may be taking, as they can help prevent harmful drug interactions. 

FAQs

How long does it take for trazodone to work on a cat?

Every cat is different, but trazodone is considered a relatively fast-acting medication when used to manage certain behavioral issues in cats. It can begin to take effect in as little as 2 hours after administration. 

Because it takes several hours to start working, trazodone is recommended for stressful situations that you can predict, such as a vet visit or fireworks. It's not recommended as a fast-acting anxiety medication when a stressful situation is already happening. For immediate relief, other medications or interventions may be more appropriate. 

When your vet first prescribes trazodone for cats, they'll ask that you monitor your cat to determine how long it takes to work, the duration of the effects, what the effects were, and any potential side effects. Some cats may experience the calming effects of trazodone for several hours, while the effects may wear off more quickly in others. 

It's essential to work closely with your vet to determine the right trazodone dosage for cats for their specific needs. Regular monitoring and communication with your veterinarian will help ensure the medication is providing the desired improvements and is used effectively to enhance your cat's well-being. 

Will trazodone knock my cat out?

The most common and desired side effect of trazodone for cats is sedation. The reason vets prescribe pets trazodone is to help them stay calm throughout stressful situations. However, whether it will make your cat fall asleep depends on several factors, including the trazodone dose for cats prescribed by your veterinarian, your cat's individual response to the medication, and the specific purpose for which it's being used. 

While trazodone can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety in cats, it shouldn't typically lead to a state of complete unconsciousness. Cats may feel tired, but if they're in a stressful situation, they're unlikely to fall asleep. Instead, they'll feel calmer. 

However, once the stressful situation is over, your cat might fall asleep once they're totally calm, as cats and dogs tend to do. They may sleep more in relaxing environments if the effects of trazodone haven't worn off yet or simply because the stressful event took a lot out of them. 

Your veterinarian should determine the trazodone dose for cats and the timing of administration based on your cat's specific needs and condition. If you have concerns about the sedative effects of trazodone or how it may affect your cat, be sure to discuss them with your vet. 

How long does it take for trazodone to wear off?

The duration of the effects of trazodone can vary from cat to cat, often depending on dosage and your cat's individual response to the medication. Vets typically like to start with a smaller dose to give you time to monitor your pet and determine if there are any side effects. Smaller doses might result in a shorter duration of effects in some cats. 

In most cases, trazodone's effects typically wear off within a few hours after the initial administration. This can mean that the sedative effects become less noticeable, and the cat returns to a normal state of alertness and behavior. 

Again, it's important to monitor your cat's behavior and well-being after administering trazodone to understand the duration of its effects in your specific case. 

Final Notes 

Trazodone for cats can be a valuable solution for managing anxiety and behavioral issues. It's essential to use trazodone under the guidance of a veterinarian, as its safety, dosage, and potential interactions should be closely monitored to ensure your cat's well-being. Trazodone's sedative effects can be beneficial, especially in predictable, stressful situations, but pet parents should be aware of potential side effects and the importance of responsible administration.

Try Dutch for a convenient and tailored approach to managing your pet's anxiety. With a Dutch subscription, pet parents can access the expertise of vets, receive personalized treatment plans, and have prescriptions delivered to their door, all from the comfort of their home. Browse Dutch membership plans today to ensure your cat receives the best care while minimizing the stress associated with in-person vet visits.