Trazodone for dogs: Some dogs are more anxious than others. Dogs do not want to be harmed if they are afraid of being alone, being in the car, going to the vet, or noise. Anxious behavior in dogs can cause stress and fear if the owner doesn’t know how to help.
The drug works by keeping the brain’s chemical messenger serotonin at levels that help stabilize mood. Because the use of trazodone in dogs is ‘off-label’, it is important to understand the side effects of the drug and follow your vet’s advice, which may differ from the advice on the label.
How does trazodone affect dogs?
Trazodone is a medication often used to treat anxiety and stress in dogs. It acts as a serotonin antagonist and serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI), which increases serotonin levels in the brain to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It is often used to treat separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and anxiety from veterinary visits and travel.
Important effects
- Trazodone is the most commonly used medication to treat anxiety and stress in dogs.
- It is commonly used to treat phobias, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, barking, aggression, separation anxiety, and post-operative anxiety.
- The dose of trazodone dosage for dogs given to a dog depends on the condition and the size of the animal. As a general rule, start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed.
How does trazodone work in dogs?
Trazodone inhibits serotonin reuptake by increasing its concentration in brain synapses and blocking serotonin receptors. Serotonin is known as the ‘happiness hormone’ and plays an important role in reducing anxiety and depression.
Trazodone belongs to a class of medicines called serotonin receptor antagonists and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is mainly used for its anti-anxiety or sedative properties, but at higher doses, it also has antidepressant properties (although at higher doses it can cause severe sedation).
How is Trazodone given?
Trazodone is usually given to dogs daily, but not always when needed to relieve occasional anxiety during a vet visit or in response to certain sounds or visitors. Giving 100mg trazodone for dogs dosage chart with food makes it easier to give to the dog and increases its effect in a shorter time. It also reduces side effects such as nausea.
Dosage of Trazodone for Dogs
Generic trazodone (Trazodone) is available in 50, 100, 150, and 300 mg tablets and requires a prescription in some countries. If you don’t have a prescription, your veterinarian can contact your local pharmacy.AKC Chief Veterinarian Dr. Jerry Klein recommends that veterinarians determine the dosage of trazodone based on the dog’s medical history and possible interactions with other medications.
For chronic behavioral problems such as separation anxiety, the recommended dose is 1 to 3 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, depending on the dog’s weight. In some cases, the dose may need to be increased or repeated. For example, your dog may be afraid of thunderstorms, a weather condition that is not always predictable. Therefore, you decide to reduce the daily dose during the summer months and increase the dose in the evening when experts predict severe thunderstorms.
Dogs can take trazodone on an empty stomach. “The dog should not feel lethargic or anesthetized”, notes Dr. Attas, adding, “Ideally, the dog should be fully awake to assume the correct position in case of vomiting. This is preferable.”
Using Trazodone in Dogs
In 2008, Groen and Sherman compared trazodone with other mainstream behavioral therapies in 56 dogs, concluding that trazodone had relatively few side effects. Several studies have been conducted to clarify the effects of trazodone.
Studies have found that trazodone for dogs dosage chart is generally beneficial and relatively safe. Trazodone-related side effects are classified as behavioral and systemic symptoms. Adverse effects described in previous literature include sedation or “listening” behavior, somnolence, dyspnea, anxiety/hyperarousal/stress, vomiting/stress, behavioral changes (sleeping and eating), agitation, sedation, hunger, abdominal pain, and aggression (growling)5,7,8.
In veterinary medicine, trazodone is usually administered as an extended-release tablet at a dose of 1.7-19.5 mg/kg per day, or with meals as needed1. When used in combination with tricyclic antidepressants or SSRIs, administration should be initiated approximately 1 hour before the the onset of anxiety, at a dose of 2-5 mg/kg, taken as needed, as it takes approximately 30-60 minutes for trazodone for dogs dosage to take effect1, 5 and Gruen et al. reported that the duration of action of trazodone in their patients exceeded 4 hours.
Conclusions
Trazodone is an important tool for treating behavioral problems in dogs and for the well-being of pets and their owners. Still, it is important to use trazodone responsibly and under the supervision of your veterinarian. By knowing how trazodone works, its potential uses, and associated risks. You can make informed decisions about your dog’s health care.
If your pet suffers from anxiety, aggression, or noise phobia, trazodone for dogs can provide support. It would be best if you led a happier, more comfortable life. Finally, Talk to your veterinarian to determine if trazodone is right for your dog. And be sure to monitor him for side effects when using this medication.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly does Trazodone work in dogs?
Short-term use of Trazodone to treat anxiety and phobias in dogs should show results within one to two hours after administration. Long-term use of Trazodone for anxiety may take two to three weeks to achieve significant results.
How long does Trazodone work in dogs?
Trazodone works in dogs for around 6 to 24 hours. The actual duration of action depends on the size, age, and general health of the dog. Before prescribing Trazodone to your dog, consult your veterinarian to determine the correct dose and treatment.
Is it safe to give Trazodone to my dog every day?
Yes, it is generally recommended to give your dog Trazodone once a day to treat chronic anxiety.
What happens if my dog overdoses on Trazodone?
Therefore, An overdose of Trazodone can cause serious side effects in dogs. If you suspect an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Why does my dog shake after taking Trazodone?
If your dog shakes after taking trazodone, it could be a sign of a serious side effect called serotonin syndrome. It’s a sign of high serotonin levels and can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and tremors. If you notice these symptoms in your dog, contact your vet immediately.
Can trazodone cause diarrhea in dogs?
Yes, Can cause diarrhea in dogs. It is generally well tolerated, but gastrointestinal reactions such as vomiting and diarrhea may occur.
