Can Cats Take Cerenia? Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Cerenia is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting in dogs. However, many cat owners wonder if it is safe for their feline friends to take as well. This article will explore the answer to this question and provide all the necessary information for cat owners considering Cerenia for their pets.

Is Cerenia Safe for Cats?

The answer is yes, Cerenia is considered safe for cats when used according to the veterinarian's instructions. It is an effective medication that can provide significant relief from nausea and vomiting.

How Does Cerenia Work?

Cerenia works by blocking the effects of neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord that are responsible for causing nausea and vomiting. It does not affect the stomach's ability to digest food, making it a safe and effective option for cats with various causes of nausea and vomiting.

When to Give Cerenia to Cats

Cerenia is typically prescribed for cats experiencing nausea and vomiting due to:

• Motion sickness
• Travel anxiety
• Post-operative recovery
• Chemotherapy
• Ear infections
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Liver or kidney disease

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Cerenia for cats is determined by the veterinarian based on the cat's weight and the severity of their symptoms. It is usually given orally, once or twice a day. Never give your cat Cerenia without consulting a veterinarian.

Side Effects of Cerenia in Cats

Cerenia is generally well-tolerated in cats, but some cats may experience mild side effects, such as:

• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Allergic reactions (rare)

Safety Precautions

It is important to follow these safety precautions when using Cerenia for cats:

• Do not give Cerenia to cats with known hypersensitivity to the drug.
• Do not give Cerenia to cats with severe liver or kidney disease.
• Use caution in cats with a history of seizures.
• Do not give Cerenia to pregnant or nursing cats.
• Keep Cerenia out of reach of children and pets.

Other Medications That May Interact with Cerenia

Cerenia may interact with certain other medications, including:

• Metoclopramide
• Ondansetron
• Domperidone
• Digoxin
• Ketoconazole
• Itraconazole

Be sure to inform your veterinarian about all medications your cat is taking before giving Cerenia.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

Sarah's cat, Mittens, experienced severe nausea and vomiting after a long car ride. Her veterinarian prescribed Cerenia, which significantly reduced Mittens' symptoms and allowed her to recover quickly from motion sickness.

Lesson: Cerenia can be an effective treatment for nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness in cats.

Story 2:

Tom's cat, Whiskers, underwent surgery to remove a urinary tract obstruction. After the surgery, Whiskers experienced persistent vomiting and was unable to keep any food or water down. His veterinarian prescribed Cerenia, which stopped Whiskers' vomiting and allowed him to recover fully.

Lesson: Cerenia can provide relief from post-operative nausea and vomiting in cats.

Story 3:

Emily's cat, Shadow, was diagnosed with liver disease and was experiencing frequent nausea and vomiting. Her veterinarian prescribed Cerenia to help manage Shadow's symptoms and improve her quality of life.

Lesson: Cerenia can be used to manage nausea and vomiting in cats with chronic diseases, such as liver disease.

Tips and Tricks

• Give Cerenia with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.
• If your cat vomits after taking Cerenia, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Store Cerenia at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully when using Cerenia for your cat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not give Cerenia to cats without consulting a veterinarian.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dosage.
• Do not give Cerenia to cats with known hypersensitivity to the drug.
• Do not give Cerenia to cats with severe liver or kidney disease.

Pros and Cons of Cerenia for Cats

Pros:

• Effective in treating nausea and vomiting
• Safe and well-tolerated in most cats
• Can be used in cats of all ages
• Does not affect the stomach's ability to digest food

Cons:

• May cause mild side effects in some cats
• Not effective for all causes of nausea and vomiting
• Can be expensive

Conclusion

Cerenia is a safe and effective medication that can be used to treat nausea and vomiting in cats. It is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully and to be aware of any potential side effects or interactions with other medications. By understanding the benefits and risks of Cerenia, cat owners can make an informed decision about using this medication for their feline companions.

Tables

Table 1: Common Causes of Nausea and Vomiting in Cats

Table 2: Dosage of Cerenia for Cats

Table 3: Side Effects of Cerenia in Cats