Just like us, our furry friends can also experience anxiety problems. Concerned pet parents may rightfully wonder what they can do to help ease their pets’ worries. Depending on the cause of the pet’s issue, a veterinarian may recommend Prozac for dogs and cats.
Is Prozac safe for dogs and cats?
The FDA has approved the use of fluoxetine in dogs for separation anxiety under the trade name Reconcile (fluoxetine hydrochloride). That said, sometimes veterinarians prescribe fluoxetine and other SSRIs, such as sertraline, to both dogs and cats for other off-label uses.
Dosage
For dogs, doses will typically be 0.5 mg to 1 mg per pound every 24 hours. For cats, the dose is usually 2 mg to 5 mg every 24 hours. It’s important to note, however, that these dosages are merely guidelines; the actual dosage for your pet may vary. To ensure you’re giving your pet the correct dosage in the correct manner, always speak to your veterinarian first.
Side Effects
Dogs commonly experience sedation (enhanced drowsiness) and anorexia (reduced appetite/refusal to eat), along with gastrointestinal upset and changes in behavior. Cats often experience anorexia and behavioral changes as well.
Overdose
In both cats and dogs, hypersalivation (excessive saliva production), agitation, and intense drowsiness or lethargy can signal a potential overdose. Patients who believe their pet has overdosed should contact emergency veterinary help right away.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to treating issues like separation anxiety and obsessive behaviors in cats and dogs, pet owners have plenty of options, including the use of Prozac (fluoxetine, or Reconcile). While using Prozac for dogs and cats is usually safe, there always exists the possibility of negative interactions. To reduce the odds of these interactions, owners should only use this medication following the exact guidelines specified by a licensed veterinarian.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
More about Prozac
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- Prozac and Alcohol Interactions
- Prozac Alternatives
- Prozac for Anxiety
- Prozac for Cats and Dogs
- Prozac Weight Gain
- Wellbutrin vs. Prozac
- Prozac and Adderall
- Is Prozac addictive?
- How long does it take Prozac to work?
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