When it’s time for a vet visit, corralling and managing a terrified, stressed cat is difficult for both you and the vet and the cat isn’t happy either. So if normally docile, happy Fluffy turns into a furry fighter there may be a solution.
Enter Gabapentin.
Gabapentin is a drug classified as an anticonvulsant or anti-seizure medication which works by blocking certain signals that set off seizures in the central nervous system. It has also been shown to be effective in managing nerve pain. While none of these characteristics seem to have anything to do with a vet visit, one of the side effects of the drug is sedation. And as a sedative, the drug works to help Fluffy manage her stress. The mild sedation aids with transporting Fluffy to the vet and with the vet exam and any associated procedures.
At the correct dosage gabapentin calms and relaxes most cats making it easier for everyone to have a more pleasant and productive vet visit. It is usually prescribed to be taken 1-2 hours before heading to the vet appointment. Other stressful situations where gabapentin may be useful include moving to a new location, bathing, introducing a companion animal.
If you think gabapentin sounds like a perfect magic pill for your Fluffy, talk to you vet to see if this is a good solution.