Fluoxetine Dosage For Cats | Reconcile & Prozac Explained

Fluoxetine Dosage For Cats

We all know that fluoxetine is an antidepressant medication prescribed to humans for the treatment of depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, but what you may not know is that it can also be prescribed for cats. What is safe Fluoxetine Dosage For Cats?

The dosage for cats is much lower than it is for humans, and it is usually only prescribed in cases of severe anxiety.

When it comes to cats, prescribing fluoxetine dosage is a tricky business. While the drug is effective in treating various feline conditions, it’s essential to ensure that you’re using the right dose and monitoring your cat closely.

FDA does not approve the use of fluoxetine in animals; however, worldwide, veterinarians prescribe this medicine under extra-label for animal use.

This blog post is an ultimate guide about fluoxetine for cats. We will take a closer look at fluoxetine dosage for cats, its uses, side effects, and how to use it safely and effectively.

Fluoxetine Dosage For Cats

What is Fluoxetine for cats?

Fluoxetine is a prescription medication used to treat behavioral problems, behavior modifications, separation anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, stereotypic, aggression, and inappropriate elimination.

In Felines, Fluoxetine works by altering the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood and behavior.

Fluoxetine Dosage For Cats

Fluoxetine for dogs

For the treatment of anxiety, aggression, and urine spraying, Fluoxetine dosage for cats is 0.5–1 mg/kg or 0.25-0.5 mg/lbs and can be increased to 2-5 mg/cat once daily. Remember that cats can not tolerate certain medicine as other pets do, so you need to go with the less dosage.

The dose of Fluoxetine can be increased or decreased depending on the severity of the issue with the veterinarian’s advice only.

Fluoxetine Dosage Chart For Cats By Weight

Cat Weight in KgCat Weight in lbFluoxetine Dosage
1 kg2 lbs0.5-1 mg
2 kg4 lbs1-2 mg
3 kg7 lbs1.5-3 mg
4 kg9 lbs2-4 mg
5 kg11 lbs2.5-5 mg
6 kg13 lbs3-6 mg

When to Use Fluoxetine for cats?

Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac) can be used to treat many feline issues. If you observe any of the below-mentioned issues in your kitty, you can use the drug with your veterinarian’s advice.

1. Aggressive behavior caused by anxiety includes separation anxiety or fear

2. Obsessive-compulsive disorders such as psychogenic alopecia or pica

3. Equine compulsions such as cribbing and wind sucking#4Excessive scratching, biting, or licking.

4. Noise phobias such as fireworks phobia or Thunderstorm phobia

5. Inappropriate elimination

What are the potential side effects of fluoxetine for cats?

cat

The most common side effects include vomiting, lethargy, depression, loss of appetite, depression, shaking, drowsiness, tremor, increased urination, restlessness, diarrhea, and whining.

If these or any other side effects occur, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Which Cats should not take Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac)?

Fluoxetine may not be suitable for all dogs. If your dog has any of the following conditions, he should not take fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac):

Additionally, fluoxetine should be used with caution in felines who are:

  • Dehydrated or have a low blood volume
  • Hypersensitive to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

How is Fluoxetine Administered?

Fluoxetine is available in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablets or capsules. It is also available in a liquid formulation, 20 mg/5 ml liquid form. The costs of the capsules and liquid are similar.

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Common Brand Names

  • Prozac®
  • Reconcile®

How do I give my cat fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine comes in tablet form and is usually given by mouth once or twice daily. Follow all directions on the prescription label and give the medication exactly as directed.

Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication without first talking to your veterinarian.

What should I do if I miss a dose of fluoxetine for my cat?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule.

How long does it take for fluoxetine to work in cats?

It may take about 1-2 weeks for fluoxetine to reach its full effect. Response to treatment varies from cat to cat, so do not be discouraged if you don’t see an immediate improvement.

Continue a cat on fluoxetine for at least 4-8 weeks with your veterinarian’s advice.

Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and give the medication for as long as directed.

Do not stop giving fluoxetine without first talking to your veterinarian. Stopping the medication suddenly can cause side effects such as increased aggression, irritability, and restlessness.

The dose of fluoxetine may need to be slowly tapered off before it is stopped completely.

Which drugs can interact with fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine may interact with other medications, so be sure to tell your veterinarian about any other drugs your cat is taking. Some of the most common drugs which can interact with fluoxetine are:

Antidepressants, Calcium channel blockers, Amino acids L-dopa and L-tryptophan, anticonvulsants, anxiolytics, cyproheptadine, anorexiants, lithium salts, and drugs of abuse.

Do not use fluoxetine parallel with any of the above-mentioned drugs. Let your pet know if your feline friend is taking any other medicine to avoid complications.

Fluoxetine Dosage Chart For Cats

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