How To Sedate A Cat

Cat Sedatives: When and How to Use Them

Provide some sort of refuge for your new kitten if she simply would not come inside. The wild cat box may be made (there are several internet guides), or the garage can be opened on really cold nights, according to Phillips. It is possible to purchase a wild cat box if you are unable to construct one yourself. Thermoplastic cat beds and non-thermoplastic cat beds are available, as are “houses” that may be used as stray cat shelters. A heated water dish may also be an excellent investment if you live in a chilly environment.

Cat bowls such as theNeater Feeder polar pet dish can assist you in ensuring that your cat has access to a fresh stream of cold water throughout the day.

According to Delgado, it’s necessary to be honest about the outside cat you’ve discovered.

In the event that you are unable to provide care for a stray cat or if the cat is too wild and dangerous for your safety, there are still choices available to you.

“ It is possible to securely capture a cat, take him to a veterinarian, and then release him back into the wild with the assistance of your local TNR program.
As long as the cat appears to be nice, Fernandez suggests contacting local rescue organizations, who have the necessary means to rehome the cat.
As he puts it, “you never know when you’re going to come across someone who simply clicks with you and who will turn out to be an excellent lifetime owner.” Delgado advises anybody searching for a new home for a stray cat to become familiar with the services available in their local area.
It’s wise to consider all of your alternatives, even if it means feeding the cat someplace other than your home or calling a TNR group to have the cat medically examined before releasing him back into the wild.

When Do Cats Need Sedation?

If your new kitten is refusing to come inside, you should consider providing some sort of shelter. Alternatively, you could build a wild cat box using internet guidelines, or you could just open your garage door on really chilly nights, adds Phillips. If you are unable to construct a wild cat box, you can purchase one. Cat heated beds and unheated choices are available, as well as “houses” that may be utilized as stray cat shelters. If you reside in a very chilly region, a heated water dish would be a wise expenditure to consider as well.

You may use a cat dish, such as theNeater Feeder polar pet bowl, to assist ensure that your cat has access to a fresh stream of cold water throughout the day.
According to Delgado, “it’s vital to be realistic about the outside kitten that you found.” “A wild cat isn’t going to try to come into your house,” says the author.
There are groups that may assist you in ensuring that the kitten either gets a nice home or, in the case of wild cats, receives adequate medical treatment.
The number of cat lovers who are ready and able to assist in situations like these is staggering,” Phillips adds.
When it comes to stray dogs, it’s all about finding the proper match for their personality.
Delgado advises anybody searching for a new home for a stray cat to become acquainted with the services available in their local area.

It’s wise to consider all of your alternatives, even if it means feeding the cat someplace other than your home or calling a TNR group to get the cat medical treatment before releasing him back into the community.”

How Do I Know If My Cat Is Stressed?

Cat communication appears to be subtle to humans on many occasions. However, if you know what to look for, it may be easier to identify a possible problem in its early stages than you think. The following are some of the most prevalent signs of stress or terror in cats:

Trying to look as insignificant as they possibly can
Position your ears back or flat against your head. The hair is rising up at the back of my head
Pupils (the dark area of the eyes) are growing in size. Cats who meow excessively
Attempts to flee or conceal oneself
Appetite suppression
Signs of hostility, such as growling, hissing, spitting, or attempting to scratch or bite are all prohibited. Changes in behavior, such as grumpiness, playing less frequently, or hiding more frequently
Urinating in places other than the litter box

Cats suffering from this condition may have a single symptom or a number of symptoms. It’s also vital to consider the context. During playing, for example, a cat’s pupils may enlarge, which is completely natural and expected. Because any of the symptoms listed above might potentially signal a significant medical problem, it’s vital to contact your veterinarian or make an appointment before presuming that these indicators are caused by stress. Veterinary professionals will conduct an examination and, if necessary, diagnostic testing like as bloodwork before administering any sedatives or anxiety-relieving medications.

It also assists in ensuring that a cat is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia.

How Is Anxiety in Cats Treated?

Symptoms might manifest themselves in a single or several ways in affected animals. It’s also vital to consider the situation. As an example, while a cat is playing, it is totally natural for the pupils of the cat become dilated. Because some of the symptoms listed above might potentially signal a significant medical issue, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian or make an appointment before concluding that the indications are caused by stress. Veterinarians will examine your pet and, if necessary, perform diagnostic tests such as bloodwork before giving sedatives or anxiety-relieving drugs.

It also assists in ensuring that a cat is healthy enough to undergo sedation and anesthesia.

What Are Some Natural Remedies for Cat Anxiety?

If your cat is suffering from mild anxiety, your veterinarian may recommend that you try the following therapies first before prescribing a sedative or anxiety medication:

Such as the changes indicated above in terms of behavior modification and environmental changes
Supplements for felines, such as L-theanine, Zylkene (hydrolyzed milk protein), and other relaxing formulas
AThundershirtor other body wrap, which gives comfort by simulating swaddling
Pheromone products such asFeliway, which produce soothing cat smell signals
AThundershirtor other body wrap, which provides comfort by simulating swaddling
Pets can benefit from herbal therapies such as Rescue Remedy. Catnip. Catnip has a distinct effect on each individual cat. Some cats will be really lively at initially, but will become exhausted after a while of racing around. This “post-catnip crash” period may be an excellent time for travel, grooming, and other activities.

Always consult with your veterinarian before administering any new drug or supplement to your cat to ensure that it is safe and will not conflict with any medications that they are already taking. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that things branded as “natural” are safe. It is possible for even natural remedies, such as some essential oils, to be harmful to cats.

Which Sedatives Are Used for Cats?

Different drugs have varying sedative effects on the body. It’s also possible that two cats will respond in different ways to the same drug. Therefore, when it comes to selecting the most appropriate sedative for each individual cat, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Some drugs make a cat feel drowsy, which is not uncommon. Others (referred to as “tranquilizers”) are used to induce relaxation or lessen anxiety. Additionally, certain medications may have both effects. Furthermore, certain drugs have pain-relieving properties, but others do not have such benefits.

Some are more effective for short-term stressful events (such as fireworks or a veterinarian visit), while others are more effective for long-term anxiety disorders. Cat sedation and tranquilization alternatives include the following, which are some of the most regularly utilized.

Benadryl

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) is not a sedative in the traditional sense. It’s an antihistamine that’s widely used to alleviate the symptoms of allergic reactions. Sedation, on the other hand, is a highly common adverse effect. Benadryl is an over-the-counter sedative for cats that has a high level of safety and effectiveness. The correct dosage and formulation, on the other hand, should be confirmed with your veterinarian. Dry mouth, elevated heart rate, and urinary retention are some of the side effects of this medication.

Acepromazine

Acepromazine is a sedative that also provides some anxiety alleviation. It can be administered as an injection at the veterinary clinic or as acepromazine tablets that are given to the client at home. Acepromazine is frequently used as a cat sedative for travel, or it is given 30-60 minutes before to a veterinarian appointment to make the cat more comfortable. Cats with heart problems or cats that are sick are not recommended to take the drug since it produces low blood pressure.

Gabapentin

In addition to seizure control, gabapentin can also be used for sedation and pain management. Gabapentin is a medication that can be used for a variety of conditions. Using it for grooming, travel, vet visits, and other short-term events is very common among cat owners. Gabapentin is generally considered to be safe in healthy dogs and cats, with only minor side effects reported. When pets require a stronger sedative effect, it is frequently used in conjunction with other medications to achieve the desired result.

Trazodone

Trazodone has sedative properties as well as anxiety-relieving properties. For various scenarios like as grooming, vet appointments, travel, storms, or fireworks, this makes it an excellent alternative. It is important to take caution when administering trazodone to dogs that have specific medical issues, like as heart disease, and to avoid using it in conjunction with certain other forms of anxiety drugs (SSRIs). Overall, though, it is a secure and widely accepted option.

Alprazolam (Xanax)

This medicine can help cats that are experiencing anxiety during short-term stressful events such as fireworks and storms, according to the manufacturer. Alprazolam may also be used for grooming, vet appointments, and other similar activities. Because it does not have a significant sedative effect, it is frequently used in conjunction with sedatives to provide an additional anxiety-relieving boost. The use of alprazolam in pets, particularly younger animals, might produce excitation rather than tranquilization in some cases.

Drugs for Long-term Anxiety Issues

It may be necessary for certain cats, such as those who suffer from severe or chronic anxiety or those who have stress-related cystitis, to take daily drugs for a prolonged length of time.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants are two types of medications that are commonly prescribed. Fluoxetine and amitriptyline are two often prescribed medications.

Injectable Sedation

When it comes to certain pets, oral medications aren’t adequate to give sedative or anxiety relief. This group of cats may require injectable sedation delivered by a veterinarian during a checkup, toenail trim, x-rays, or any other operation that requires anesthesia. For this reason, injectable drugs administered in a veterinarian’s office are typically stronger than oral medications that are sent home. These drugs should only be administered by veterinary professionals who are trained and prepared to monitor a pet to ensure that their heart rate, breathing, and temperature remain normal while they are sedated.

Sedation Versus Anesthesia

When talking about sedation and anesthesia, there might be some misunderstanding. In general, sedation is “lighter” than general anesthesia, which means that a cat will not be in as deep of a slumber (and may still be conscious, depending on the individual drug that is used) when sedated (and may still be alert, depending on the specific medication that is used). The most common methods of administering sedation are through the tongue or by an injection. General anesthesia, on the other hand, is characterized by a deeper state of unconsciousness that is sustained by the use of an inhalant (gaseous) anesthetic agent.

In order to get the appropriate sedative effect, a veterinarian may offer a mix of sedatives.

What Are the Side Effects of Sedation?

Due to the fact that side effects differ from prescription to medication, it is essential to see your veterinarian for particular information regarding the medication your cat has been prescribed. Other typical adverse effects of sedation in cats, in addition to the particular consequences stated above, are as follows:

Vomiting or diarrhea
Clumsiness or lack of coordination
Decreased blood pressure
Impaired capacity to control body temperature
There are times when paradoxical reactions occur. When a medicine has the opposite effect of what it is intended to do, such as creating excitement, responsiveness, or violence instead of sedation, this is known as a paradoxical impact.

Because of some of these side effects, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your pet until they’re more alert, or until your veterinarian recommends it.

What Else Should I Know About Sedatives and Cats?

For sedating a cat, there are several additional vital considerations to keep in mind:

Maintaining your own calmness may be beneficial, since many dogs react to the emotions or stress that their human partners are experiencing. Many veterinarians encourage a “trial run” before administering sedatives. For example, if you’re using a cat sedative for travel, give your cat a dosage at home before you leave for the airport to ensure that the drug works as intended
Because of the potential dangers, several airlines do not allow the use of sedatives while flying. For pets traveling in cargo who cannot be watched, and for short-nosed breeds that are more susceptible to respiratory distress and are at greater danger when exposed to severe temperatures, this is very important to remember
If you are having problems administering a medication to your cat, speak with your veterinarian about alternate choices. They may recommend that you go to the vet clinic and get injectable sedative instead. Some pharmaceuticals are also available in other forms, such as a transdermal formulation that is applied directly to the skin. These specialized formulas, on the other hand, must be obtained well in advance. In addition to this, some drugs can be given straight to your cat’s food so that they swallow them on their own — but see your veterinarian first

There are many various scenarios in which cat sedatives can be used, as you can see in the table above, and there are many different drugs from which to select. After consulting with a veterinarian, the majority of pet parents can come up with a solution that is effective in keeping their cat comfortable, happy, and safe. Is it possible that your cat may benefit from sedation? To find out more, schedule a telehealth appointment or an in-person consultation with one of our compassionate veterinarians.

Article in PDF format Article in PDF format There are a lot of reasons why you could find yourself needing to sedate your pet cat. Your pet may have difficulty traveling or may get anxious when subjected to vet examinations or professional grooming.

There are a variety of methods for calming down your cat in stressful situations – some of which are medical and others which are not. Investigate all of the available options to discover which is the most appropriate for your pet.

1 Seek the counsel of a veterinarian. In order to obtain most sedatives, you will need a prescription from your veterinarian. Even if you’re purchasing an over-the-counter drug, you should consult with your veterinarian to ensure that it is safe for your pet’s health. A poor-quality product might be harmful to your pet’s health. All animals that are going to be medically sedated should be inspected by a veterinarian prior to being used to ensure that they are healthy enough to be sedated in the first place.

Inform your veterinarian if you want to travel with a cat that has been anesthetized. An unfavorable reaction caused by a combination of high air pressure, elevation, and extreme stress has the potential to be lethal.

2 Discuss the timeline with your veterinarian. Different drugs take varying periods of time to take effect, so it’s important to understand how your specific prescription works before taking it. Inquire with your veterinarian about how long ahead of time you should provide the medicine prior to the occasion that will stress your feline companion. The effects of certain drugs may be felt practically immediately, while others may not be noticeable for up to an hour.

When administering drugs that require time to take effect, the cat’s anxiety may outweigh the sedative if the medication is not given time to take action in a calm atmosphere.

Understand the many types of sedative medications available to you. The drugs that are used to sedate cats are diverse in their composition and efficacy. All of the drugs covered in this article require a veterinarian’s examination and prescription. Discuss your options with your veterinarian in order to determine which is the best option for your pet. It is the veterinarian’s knowledge, training, and expertise that will be used to determine which drug has the fewest side effects and risks for your pet.

Benzodiazepines are a common sedative that may be used to alleviate anxiety practically immediately after administration. Disorientation, insomnia, and an increase in appetite are all possible side effects. They should be used with great caution in cats who have liver or renal issues
SARIs also ease anxiety quickly, but they might induce minor dizziness and disorientation in cats that have these conditions. Using them with caution in animals suffering from cardiac problems is recommended. In humans, clonidine and gabapentin were created to treat high blood pressure and nerve pain
Yet, in animals, both drugs have sedative and anti-anxiety properties. When it comes to allergies and colds, chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine, and when it comes to epilepsy, phenobarbital is a narcotic and sedative used to treat seizures.

4Don’t anticipate a speedy repair to occur. When it comes to sedating a cat, there are several options available, the majority of which must be prescribed by a veterinarian. Individual cats, like humans, can have varying sensitivities to different drugs, and this is true for both cats and humans. The same thing that works on one cat might not work on another cat. Preparing for medicated sedation as much in advance as feasible will allow you to make any required adjustments to the medicine. Don’t expect a “miracle pill” to work instantaneously
Instead, anticipate a gradual improvement.

First, go for a practice run. Before administering the medication to your cat, you should always conduct a trial run to ensure that the treatment is effective. This assures that she responds positively to it
Otherwise, your pet may have a negative reaction to it in an already stressful environment. In general, you should allow yourself at least a week of wiggle space so that you may contact your veterinarian and explore alternative treatment options if your first-choice drug is ineffective.

You should wait until both you and your cat are calm and relaxed before you begin. After you’ve given her the medication, keep an eye on her for 12 hours to see how she reacts to it. However, the cat should not be dizzy or comatose
Instead, it should be comfortable and peaceful. It is not recommended to take the drug again if she seems disoriented or terrified.

2 Prepare your cat for anesthesia by brushing his teeth. Check to see that you are still inside the time period for sedation that you established with your veterinarian. Allow enough time for the drug to take effect before the stressful event. Your cat, as well as yourself, should be as calm as possible.

Ensure that the cat’s head is protected by wrapping her in a tiny blanket, pillowcase, or towel. You may either sit on the floor with her straddled between your legs or on your lap, or you can have someone else hold her for you.

3 Give your cat’s medicine as directed. Make sure you properly follow the dosing guidelines provided by your veterinarian. If these potent drugs are administered incorrectly, they can be extremely hazardous.

Your thumb should be on one side of the cat’s mouth, and your forefinger should be on the other. Apply moderate pressure to your cat’s mouth until she opens it. Press softly down on the lower jaw with your free hand to encourage the mouth to expand even wider. Taking a tablet or squeezing a liquid remedy into the inside of the mouth on the side of one cheek is recommended.

4 Check to see if the cat has swallowed the medicine. While maintaining solid control over her body, gently remove her mouth from your grasp. Lift her face so that her nose is pointing upward, and softly stroke her throat to enable her to swallow more easily. You might even gently blow into her face, which will cause her to gulp or swallow. After a few seconds in this posture, remove the covers and release the cat.

If you notice the cat licking her nose, it’s a good indication that she has ingested the medication
Otherwise, call your veterinarian. Give your cat lots of positive reinforcement for her excellent behavior, and soothe her if she is sad about what has just occurred

Use other delivery options if they are necessary. Taking oral medication does not come naturally to cats, and yours may resist you if you attempt to sedate her with oral medication. While delivering the sedative, it may be beneficial to cover your cat in a towel to keep him warm. Her ability to resist and flee will be significantly reduced when she is swaddled like a newborn infant.

You may purchase “pill guns,” which allow you to drop the pill toward the rear of the cat’s mouth, increasing the likelihood that she will take it. If you want to sneak the pill past your cat, try wrapping it in a little piece of cheese or another delicacy she adores. If you are having difficulty delivering pills, ask your veterinarian for liquid medicine instead. Consult your veterinarian before attempting to put a liquid sedative into your cat’s wet food. You want to be certain that it will not make the medicine ineffective.

6 Take a deep breath and wait for the sedative to take effect. The effects of various drugs and doses take varying amounts of time to become apparent. Your veterinarian will inform you of how long it should take for your specific drug and dose to take action, as well as how long it should be effective for. In general, though, you’re aiming for your cat to get sleepy and weary, rather than bewildered and confused, so that you may comfort him. Rest should be provided to the cat, but the cat should not lose consciousness unexpectedly. The majority of cats will go asleep at any time, while some will remain awake but quiet and tranquil

Your cat’s behavior may return to normal in a matter of hours, or she may appear sleepy for a number of days thereafter. You should consult your veterinarian if she is still not acting normally after a couple of days

1 Incorporate synthetic pheromones into your home decor. The use of synthetic pheromones can help calm your cat if it is frightened or overexcited, or if it engages in undesirable activities such as scent marking or clawing. Essentially, these molecules are a synthetic version of the pheromones that cats naturally make in order to connect with other cats. A few firms have attempted to duplicate pheromones by using essential oils or botanical mixes. Regular usage can help cats feel more relaxed and safe in their own homes.

Synthetic pheromones are available in a variety of forms, including collars, sprays, wipes, and plug-in diffusers
Popular brands include Feliway, Comfort Zone, and Sergeant’s Pet Care, among others. You may use them on a regular basis to keep your cat happy and contented. If you want to prepare her for a stressful occasion, you can introduce them a few weeks before it occurs.

2Think about putting on body wraps. Body wraps have been shown to be effective in the treatment of anxiety in cats. Each of these devices is designed to wrap around the cat’s body, gently pressing on her pressure spots. The impact is comparable to that of swaddling a newborn baby in blankets. Despite the fact that these products are more commonly associated with the treatment of canines, they are as beneficial in the treatment of cats. 3 If you don’t have a body wrap, you can wrap her in a towel. If you haven’t yet invested in a body wrap and your cat is worried or afraid, a thick towel can be used to simulate the impact of a body wrap. Wrap the cat in the towel so that she is completely covered, with the exception of her face. Make certain that the towel is tightly wrapped around her torso. Using this strategy, you may give her medication, clip her nails, or do anything else that would cause her to get agitated for a short length of time.

Always remember to give the cat a warm welcome after removing her from the towel.

4 If you suffer from anxiety, consider taking nutritional supplements. The components in these supplements help to maintain the cat’s natural chemical balance, which helps to boost its ability to relax. They are available in a variety of forms, including liquid, chewable, and tablet. Anxitane and Zylkene, for example, are two supplements to consider.

As the company states, anxitane is a green tea amino acid that works on chemical receptors in the brain to help cats deal with their fears and anxieties more effectively. Zylkene is a nutritional supplement produced from milk protein that is used to calm and comfort babies. You may get these supplements either online or via a veterinarian’s clinic.

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Question The nighttime vocalizations of my 18-year-old cat are excessive, and she wakes me up every three hours. What can I do to help? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. Some medical conditions, such as hyperactive thyroids, might cause the cat to wake up at night, therefore it’s important to have him checked out by the vet. Additionally, aches and pains such as arthritic joints are greater at night when there is nothing to distract them, so ask your veterinarian whether pain medication is recommended. From a behavioral standpoint, make certain that the cat has plenty of food and drink, as well as a clean litter tray. Don’t listen to her screams or offer her attention or food because this will simply encourage her to continue her behaviors. Question I have a ten-year-old cat that has never been outside and is not accustomed to being in the car. I’m having my wooden flooring refinished, and I’m not sure what to do with the cat throughout the process. A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. The work will cause a great deal of interruption, which the cat may find upsetting. Begin as soon as possible by training him to accept a cat carrier. Then you may securely bring him to a cattery where he can be boarded while the construction work is being done. Alternatively, create a safe haven in an area where there will be the least amount of interruption — such as the restroom — and keep it there. Prepare the safe haven by placing his food, drink, bed, and litter box in it, and spritzing it with pheromones to help keep him relaxed

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For example, in certain circumstances, the best results are obtained by combining medical and non-medical interventions
Experiment with several methods of calming your cat ahead of time to find the most effective remedy for your cat’s anxiety concerns

You should never feed your cat human medication unless expressly instructed to do so by your veterinarian. You might wind up getting your pet terribly sick as a result of your actions. Even worse, she might die as a result of taking medication that is safe for people but harmful for cats. Remember that these are not guidelines for treating a wild cat that you have captured and placed in a humane enclosure. Even if such cats must be sedated before to surgery or physical examinations, it is recommended that you avoid personal contact with them to avoid the possibility of serious scratches or bites. If possible, take wild cats, cage and all, to your veterinarian and let him sedate them
Otherwise, call animal control. It is not suggested to sedate a cat before traveling by plane.

Things You’ll Need

Doctor of veterinary medicine
Feline or kitten
Sedative in tablet or liquid form
Towel or pillowcase
Treats
Blanket, towel, or pillowcase

About This Article

Summary of the ArticleX Before sedating your cat, arrange an appointment with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat is in good condition and can tolerate sedation. A prescription or a referral for an over-the-counter sedative will be provided by your veterinarian as well. When it’s time to sedate your cat, wrap it in a towel so that just its head is visible through the towel opening. After that, use your thumb and fingers on either side of its mouth and gently press down until its mouth opens fully.

Continue reading for further advise from our Veterinary reviewer, including information on how to utilize non-medication sedatives such as pheromone sprays and body wraps.

The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 334,419 times.

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Written by Katherine Cummings, DVM, of the DACVAangell.org/anesthesia (phone: 617-541-5048). In cats, it is critical to improve the feline experience during the veterinarian appointment as well as the time period immediately after the visit. Cats, on the other hand, might be a considerably more difficult animal to gauge behaviorally than dogs, owing to the fact that they are frequently less engaging and more elusive than dogs. If a nervous or anxious cat is placed in a stressful position, such as an unexpected vehicle journey or an annual inspection, the cat may exhibit violent behaviors such as biting and swatting, which can cause self-trauma, physical injury to the owner, and/or physical danger to the veterinary personnel.

The author advocates the use of the pharmacologic therapies that have been provided IN TANDEM with other approaches such as specialized cat-friendly facilities and “Fear Free” handling skills to help reduce the incidence of cat bites (e.g.
Before giving pre-hospital sedatives, a thorough physical examination should be performed whenever feasible.
1,2,3,4 It has a long history of usage as an adjuvant analgesic in both people and animals, and it is still in use today.
When gabapentin is used in the acute context, the drowsiness that occurs is frequently substantial.
6Owners should be made aware that their pet will frequently look far more docile while they are at home.
Guidelines for dosing and timeframes are provided in the next section (Table 1).
4,5,6 It can be used in conjunction with the other drugs in the kit if the cat need further sedation or relaxation.

According to findings from recent studies conducted in two separate feline populations–1) in a research setting 7and 2) client-owned cats in a clinic environment 8– trazodone was well accepted and resulted in cats with better behavior and tractability ratings.

Trazodone did not produce any significant changes in physical exam and/or laboratory results when administered to laboratory cats, increasing its margin of safety when administered to elderly or possibly debilitated humans.

How to Sedate a Cat for Grooming

When preparing a cat for grooming, some groomers may choose to administer a cat sedative. Image courtesy of Konstantin Aksenov/iStock/GettyImages.com Face it, other than petting your cat, there aren’t many other sorts of handling that cats will endure when they’re in the mood to be petted. Consider the difficulty of holding a cat down while cutting or brushing matted hair out of the fur of a long-haired cat. Eventrimming a cat’s toenails appears to necessitate the use of protective gear! When preparing a cat for grooming, some groomers may choose to administer a cat sedative.

Furthermore, being kept in one position for an extended period of time in order to complete the task might be unpleasant for the cat.

Cat tranquilizer drug

When a cat reaches an advanced age, professional or home grooming may become a health need since they are unable to care for their hair as effectively as they did when they were younger. Grooming a cat may be necessary to decrease mats in their hair, for a medical cause such as administering a shampoo for dermatitis or allergies, or to prepare them for surgical procedures. If you’re traveling with your cat over a long distance, you may want to consider using a cat tranquilizer medication.

Sedation for grooming

In the case of grooming or travel, an Acepromazine prescription, also known as Acevet or atravet, is frequently prescribed as a cat tranquilizer drug to keep the cat calm. Cats with renal illness, on the other hand, should avoid using this medication. There are, of course, other medical methods for sedated a cat, such as an injection of anesthetic into the veins. Your veterinarian should be able to assist you in developing a home sedation strategy. According to Ask A Vet, there are no over-the-counter drugs that perform exceptionally well and are completely safe for sedating cats.

Bach Rescue Remedy is supposed to be able to soothe a cat down because of the natural elements it contains.

If you don’t want to or can’t be confident that sedating your cat at home is safe, independent and commercial groomers such as PetSmart are a choice.

They do, however, train their stylists in pet grooming for more than a year, during which they get more than 800 hours of hands-on teaching and safety certification while grooming at least 200 dogs of all types and sizes during the process.

There’s a strong chance that this is more grooming experience than you have, and Petsmart has all of the gear and personnel necessary to complete the job swiftly and securely.

Training a cat for grooming

Depending on how well you educate your cat to tolerate grooming from an early age, you may not need to sedate her at all later on. If possible, begin educating your cat to be well-groomed as soon as she is a kitten. Brush her for brief periods of time, then engage her in play and provide rewards to establish a pleasant bond. Handle your kitten’s paws, ears, and mouth to get her accustomed to the grooming you may need to perform in the near future.

Medication to Reduce the Stress of Veterinary Visits for Cats

The majority of cats find going to the veterinarian to be a stressful and intimidating experience. This involves removing the cat from its normal home environment, placing it in an uncomfortably loud carrier, driving it to the veterinarian clinic, and bringing it into the reception room, where there are strong odors from many other pets and humans. After that, they are led into an examination room, where they are examined and subjected to a variety of treatments by an unfamiliar individual. Any one of these activities might be unpleasant on its own, but when they are all together, it is no surprise if your cat feels fearful or stressed out.

Can I give my cat a sedative or antianxiety medication to decrease this stress?

Sedatives are prescription drugs that should only be offered to animals in good physical condition. The stress level of your cat may be too high to allow your veterinarian to do a regular wellness examination on your cat. If your cat’s stress level is too high, your veterinarian may prescribe a sedative or antianxiety medicine. You should NEVER provide a sedative if you have ANY worries about the cat’s current state of health – even if your veterinarian has provided you with sedatives for routine wellness visits in the past.

The medications buprenorphine (brand names Buprenex®, Simbadol®, Belbuca®, Vetergesic®, Buprenodale®, Sublocade®, Suboxone®, Subutex®, and Temgesic®), gabapentin (brand names Neurontin®, Aclonium®, Equipax®, Gantin®, Gabarone®, Gralise®, Neurostil®, Progresse®), and Your veterinarian will prescribe one of these drugs if it is determined that it is appropriate for your cat’s circumstances.

What about natural medicine?

The use of sedatives is restricted to healthy animals only. Sedatives are prescribed drugs. The stress level of your cat may be too high to allow your veterinarian to do a standard health examination on your cat. If your cat’s stress level is too high, your veterinarian may recommend a sedative or antianxiety medicine. You should NEVER provide a sedative if you have ANY worries about the cat’s current state of health – even if your veterinarian has provided you with sedatives for routine wellness visits in the past.

Buprenorphine (brand names Buprenex®, Simbadol®, Belbuca®, Vetergesic®, Buprenodale®, Sublocade®, Suboxone®, Subutex®, Temgesic®), gabapentin (brand names Neurontin®, Aclonium®, Equipax®, Gantin®, Gabarone®, Gralise®, Neurostil®, Progresse®), and alprazol Depending on your cat’s circumstances, your veterinarian may recommend one of the drugs listed above to you.

What are pheromones?

Pheromones are naturally occurring odorless compounds that are generated by animals and humans and that cause an emotional reaction in members of the same species when they come into contact with them. In order to operate, pheromones must stimulate the vomeronasal organ (also known as Jacobson’s organ) and activate parts of the brain that are responsible for emotional reactions. In other words, the pheromones of one species will only have an impact on other members of that species; hence, they are not universal.

Feliway® contains a pheromone that is a synthetic replica of the feline face pheromone, which is utilized by cats to identify their area as safe and secure.

Cats can benefit from this since it can make them feel more comfortable and secure when coping with difficult situations.

For occasional usage in settings such as the automobile, the cat’s box, or veterinary examination rooms, Feliway® is offered as a spray.

How would I use Feliway® to reduce the stress of my cat’s veterinary visit?

You should spray a towel or blanket that you will place in your cat’s carrier and allow it to dry completely before using it. To make matters even more complicated, spray your car before placing the cat in it. After entering the examination room, you can place the towel on the examination table to offer your cat with additional confidence.

What about Rescue Remedy®?

In this Bach Flower Remedy®, five flower essences are combined to provide relief from panic following mental or physical stress. Rescue Remedy® was created by Dr. Edward Bach. Similar goods are made by various firms under a variety of different brand names. Despite the fact that there are no controlled studies to support their usefulness, there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that these products may be good in relaxing certain cats while they are at the veterinarian. This is because to the tremendous diluting power of these essences, and they are thus unlikely to be detrimental to your cat (for more details, see the handout “Flower Essences”).

Are there any other tips to reduce my cat’s stress levels during the veterinary visit?

One of the most crucial things you can do to reduce your cat’s anxiety level during the visit is to remain calm and relaxed yourself. Using a calm and soothing tone, speak to your cat, and reassure her by caressing her on her head or stroking her in a comfortable location on your body. For further information, please refer to the handout “Reducing the Stress of Veterinary Visits for Cats. ”

ᐉ How to sedate a Cat Naturally: What to use to Sedate a Cat?

It’s no secret that cats are high-stress creatures; if you have a feline companion in your home, you’re definitely well aware of this fact. Even minor changes in their lives might cause them great distress. This is not only detrimental to their emotional well-being, but it can also have negative consequences for their physical health as well. In order to assist your cat de-stress, there are several approaches that entail helping her feel more calm, or even drugged in certain instances. While pharmaceuticals can be used to do this, medications can have a negative impact on the system, which is especially true for cats that already have renal illness.

As a result, you might wish to think about natural ways to sedate or quiet your pet. The alternatives and approaches that should be avoided will be discussed in detail in this article. More information may be found at: Is my cat [email protected] / FreePik

Why Should You Sedate Your Cat?

If you want your cat to be a little tolerant of your presence, there are many reasons why you would want this to happen, both for her benefit and yours! You may wish to consider sedating your cat for any of the following reasons, which are some of the most common:

Travel

Putting cats in a cat carrier box might cause them to become scared or agitated, and this can make them feel unsafe.

Handling

If you have to administer medication to your pet or transport your cat to the veterinarian for an examination, your cat will be difficult to manage if she is stressed.

Urinary Conditions

Some cats are predisposed to feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), a bladder illness that is induced by stress in some circumstances. It is quite painful for your cat, and reducing stress and anxiety levels can help to avoid the ailment orbackpack from occurring.

Grooming

If you have a long-haired cat, you should groom her on a daily basis in order to avoid hairballs. If your cat is not tolerant of the brush, this will be a difficult task. In addition to this, it is necessary to clip nails to an appropriate length in order to prevent harm, and many cats dislike the process of being handled.

Phobias

Thunderstorms and pyrotechnics can cause cats to become distressed and anxious.

Changes in Situations

A change in the circumstances is one of the most typical sources of stress. Introducing a new pet, a new baby, moving to a new home, or even just having some contractors come to the house are all examples of life events that require planning. Cats may be rather unreasonable at times! ANOTHER RELATED ARTICLE: The kittens’ very first shot

How Do You Sedate a Cat Naturally?

Natural sedatives are available in a variety of forms. It’s crucial to note that many of them do not truly have a sedative (sleepy) effect, but instead have a soothing effect that is quite powerful. If you require your cat to be practically asleep for a certain setting, you will need to discuss this with your veterinarian. Anytime you give your cat something that has the potential to make her sedate, consult with your veterinarian first. In the case of cats that suffer from an underlying medical issue, this becomes even more critical.

It is possible that your cat has an underlying health issue or is particularly young or elderly, in which case the body’s normal functions will not function as effectively, and even natural products can accumulate in the body to potentially harmful amounts.

Pheromones

Feline pheromones are a type of chemical communication that cats use to communicate with one another. They are released from glands located on their cheeks, face, paws, and nipples in order to communicate with other cats in the vicinity. This explains why cats enjoy rubbing their heads against things or clawing at things. Just a quick note to their buddies, really. 🙂 Cats pick up pheromone messages via an organ called the vomeronasal organ, which is placed on the roof of their mouth and is responsible for detecting them.

Because pheromones have no effect on the body, it is impossible to take an excessive amount of pheromones.

Artificial pheromones that soothe cats can be found in a diffuser, room spray, or cat collar, and can be used to promote relaxation in cats.

As a result, your cat will feel more at ease about the house or in its immediate surroundings. This method may be used to create a variety of pheromones, including:

F3 Facial Pheromones: These pheromones provide positive messages and are especially beneficial for cats that need to feel protected and secure. These are the ideal for cats who are experiencing a change in their living condition or who are traveling to the veterinarian. It is the mother’s nipples that secrete the cat appeasing pheromone (CAP), which is used to help keep her kittens quiet. These are the ideal choices for cats who are experiencing new social circumstances, such as having a new companion in the house. Feet pads release a variety of pheromones, which are known as feline interdigital pheromones. They are most effective for cats with behavioral issues that require encouragement to scratch or play in specific spots that are away from furniture.

Cat pheromones are available from a variety of manufacturers, including Feliway, which provides a wide range of alternatives for different pheromones and uses.

Catnip

Catnip is a kind of herb that is a member of the mint family of plants. Catnip’s leaves and flowers contain a volatile oil that includes an active component known as nepetalactone, which is responsible for its catnip-like properties. This substance is a neurotransmitter, which means that it transmits a chemical signal to the brain of your cat from one place to another. Catnip is a favorite of most cats, who will rub, lick, chew, and sniff it. Catnip will cause around 60 percent of cats to become more active, causing them to roll around, become aroused, and vocalize more frequently than usual.

Even while catnip is more likely to encourage young cats (particularly those under six months of age) to respond passively and older cats are more likely to respond aggressively, there are distinctions between every cat in terms of how they respond.

Overdosing your feline companion may be something you are concerned about because your cat may look to be under the influence of recreational drugs at times!

If your cat consumes an excessive amount of the substance, the worst that she is likely to experience is a minor case of vomiting or diarrhea.

Valerian Root

Valerian root is a popular plant that may be used to treat anxiety in a wide variety of animals, and cats are particularly sensitive to it, as evidenced by the fact that they have a high sensitivity to it. Cats benefit from the sedative and anti-anxiety properties of Valerian, which is derived from the active component actinidine. Cats are attracted to it in the same way that catnip is. It is, in fact, a form of insect pheromone, however it is not one from which cats may get a signal! Aside from that, it contains substances such as isovaleric acid, hesperidin, linarin, and valorenic acid.

Unfortunately, not all cats react in the same way when exposed to valerian root.

So, once again, this is something you might want to experiment with ahead of time to see how your cat reacts to the idea.

An overdose might result in excessive lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea, among other symptoms.

Bach Flower Remedies

Bach Flower Remedies are ancient remedies that claim to be able to assist dogs (and people) deal with their negative emotions in a natural way. Botanical remedies such as Bach Flower Remedies are created by steeping wildflower petals in spring water or heating the water to infuse the water with wildflowers. Dr. Edward Bach, a British physician who discovered 38 different medicinal flowers and plants that may be used to treat negative emotions, is credited with the invention of the Bach Flower Remedies.

There are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drops available, however non-alcoholic drops should always be administered to dogs to avoid any potential problems.

The Bach Flower Remedies do not have a dosage dependence.

It is possible that you will only find them useful as a naturally calming choice if you can predict a stressful situation that will occur in the near future.

Rescue Remedy employs the original formulas from Bach Flower Remedie on the market, which are widely believed to be the most effective. Unsplash user Kashish Grover contributed this photo.

Calming Wraps

It works wonders to quiet down your cat and make them much easier to manage when they’re wrapped up firmly. This is a fantastic strategy if your veterinarian has to check them, administer a medicine, or cut their nails while you’re away. Wrapping your kitty companion with a towel or blanket is the quickest and most convenient method. Maintaining a stress-free environment during the towel wrapping procedure is essential, since wrapping her up unexpectedly might have the opposite impact. Thus, following these procedures is a fool-proof strategy to avoid problems.

Open up your towel and place it on a level surface in the location where you’d like your cat to be
On each side, gently set your cat on the towel, a few inches from the long side and at least a foot from the short side on each side
The short side should be wrapped around your cat’s neck, and the long side should be wrapped around your cat’s neck, similar to a scarf. Make certain that her whole body, with the exception of her face, is covered. Make a second pass with the towel around her body, this time in the other direction, making sure the front wraps over her front legs and securely under her chin
To ensure that she is safe, fold it securely under her shoulder area. With your elbow and lower arm, you may hold her close to your body while someone else takes care of the rest of the household chores.

The terrible thing about using a towel wrap, however, is that you cannot keep your cat in it for extended periods of time, and if you need to travel with your cat, they will simply wiggle out of the towel as soon as you place them in the carrier box. There is, however, a workaround! You might want to think about investing in a ThunderShirt. In the same way that wrapping a baby in a towel wrap does for anxiety, their patent-pending design gives the same type of pressure as utilizing a weighted blanket for the same purpose.

L-Tryptophan

A supplement called L-Tryptophancan be found in natural soothing pet pills and feline stress-related urinary difficulties food, both of which are expressly created for cats with stress-related urine issues (especially FIC). Addition of L-Tryptophan to the diet functions as a precursor for the creation of serotonin, which is a feel-good hormone. In the brain, this neurotransmitter has a calming effect and helps to reduce pain sensitivity, reduce aggressive behavior, and boost happiness by increasing dopamine levels.

Hydrolyzed Milk Protein (Casein)

A natural substance derived from hydrolyzed milk proteins is used in the manufacture of calming supplements, which are accessible on the market. Casein is the name given to these proteins. Casein is a protein present in animal milk that has been shown to calm babies after they have been breastfed. As a fortunate side effect, it is still useful in adults, and is especially effective against phobic behaviors such as responses to thunderstorms, fireworks, and strangers in the house. Zylkene is the most widely used product on the market today.

What Should I Not Sedate My Cat With?

The internet can be a frightening place, and some of the material accessible on it is downright hazardous. If you do a search on the internet, you may see recommendations for a variety of products that may sedate your cat and cause her serious health problems. These are some typical sedative advice that should never be taken into consideration:

Antihistamines

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is one of the most often prescribed antihistamines on the market, and while it is considered safe for use in the treatment of allergic responses, it is not considered safe for use as a sedative in the treatment of other conditions.

Overdosing cats is a common occurrence, and it can result in seizures, stupor, breathing issues, and even death. Many cats also feel quite upset when they are given it because they dislike the act of having it syringed into their mouths. It’s also not a flavor that cats are particularly fond of!

Essential Oils

When applied topically to people, many essential oils are soothing, and they may even cause you to desire to sleep. Essential oils, on the other hand, are a no-no for cats. Essential oils are easily absorbed by the skin or respiratory system, but they must be metabolized by the liver before they can be excreted from the body. Glucuronyl transferase, an enzyme required by the liver for the breakdown of essential oils, is absent in cats, which creates a difficulty. Consequently, they can accumulate to dangerous amounts in your cat’s body, resulting in neurological abnormalities, vomiting and tremors, breathing difficulties, and liver failure, among other symptoms.

Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the most widely recommended herbs for calming a cat; however, before you start boiling a pot of tea, pause! Chamomile is harmful to cats, and it can induce vomiting, diarrhea, low appetite, and allergic responses in some people who consume it. Chronic usage might also result in a tendency to bleed excessively. Because of the presence of poisonous substances such as bisabolol, anthem acid, chamazulene, and tannic acid, this is the situation. Some of these ingredients can also be present in other types of tea, so it’s better to avoid drinking tea altogether for your cat.

What Can I Do If Natural Sedatives Don’t Work?

Consult your veterinarian if your cat is in need of being sedated for a specific reason. He can administer injectable anesthesia to your cat if a brief treatment, such as brushing matts out of a long coat, trimming nails, or responding to a wound, needs to be completed in a stress-free manner. If your cat need something more long-term, medication can be administered to help calm her down and make her more comfortable. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are a kind of antidepressant, are commonly used to treat depression.

Cat behaviorists can be hired to come to your home and assist you in dealing with your cat’s overall home-life situation if all other options fail.

Sources for this article include:

“Bach Flower Remedies – Rescue Remedy for Pets Dogs Cats Horses Birds.” “Bach Flower Remedies – Rescue Remedy for Dogs Cats Horses Birds.” InformationSales – The Original Bach Flower Remedies, 2 December 2020, bachflower.com/rescue-remedy-pets-bach-flower/
Duxbury, Lucas
Bachflower.com/rescue-remedy-pets-bach-flower/
Duxbury, Lucas. “Cat Sedative for Car Travel – My Ragdoll Cats.” “Cat Sedative for Car Travel – My Ragdoll Cats.” A cat sedative for automobile travel is available from My Ragdoll Cats on September 10, 2020, at http://www.myragdollcats.com/cat-sedative-for-car-travel/

Drug	Dose	When to Administer*	Contraindications
Acepromazine	Recommended: Injectable (OTM): 0.01-0.05 mg/kgSmall volumes can be diluted with 0.9% saline for easier administration	Time of onset ~30 minutes, so best given 30-60 minutes before hospital visit