Cerenia Dosage Chart for Cats: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More

Dogs got access to this prescription medication before cats did. It’s an effective treatment vets use for a variety of reasons, though the primary use is for the treatment and prevention of nausea and acute vomiting in cats. There are some additional uses as well. Despite how well it works in most cats, there are some side effects to note. Additionally, cats may develop allergic reactions. Review the Cerenia dosage for cats and learn about the risks, side effects, and more!

When Do Cats Need Cerenia?

Cerenia is an antiemetic that your vet can administer via injection. Your cat does require a prescription for you to administer this medication. Initially, Cerenia was approved in 2007 for use in dogs when they exhibited symptoms like vomiting or suffered from motion sickness. However, in 2012, Cerenia as an injectable was approved for use in cats also. The use of tablets is considered off-label. The medication is for the treatment of vomiting and nausea.

After administration, it helps by intervening and preventing the discomfort of nausea and the consequence of vomiting following nausea. Cerenia also has other uses and a vet can prescribe it for cats that have renal failure or those with hypersensitivity dermatitis. Sometimes, Cerenia is helpful for pain relief as well.

Side Effects of Cerenia for Cats

When administered at higher doses, Cerenia may cause hypersalivation and may have a side effect of vomiting. If injected, your cat may experience some pain and swelling in the area where the injection was administered.

Other side effects have been reported but they are rare. Those side effects include diarrhea, convulsions, lethargy, and allergic reactions. After administration, some cats have also experienced muscle tremors, unusual breathing, and panting. The medication is short-acting, which means that within 24 hours, any side effects should resolve.

Signs of Cerenia Overdose/Allergies in Cats

If your cat is allergic to Cerenia or receives an overdose of this medication, the symptoms may include a slower heart rate, signs of lethargy and weakness, a soft stool consistency, vomiting, and weight loss. You may also notice that your cat is salivating excessively. Upon further examination, your veterinarian may be able to determine if electrolyte levels have shifted and if their white blood cell count has changed.

Risks to Consider

Cats under two months of age should not receive this medication. Additionally, any cat that has a gastrointestinal obstruction or that has ingested any kind of toxic substance should not receive this medication either. If your cat has liver disease or heart disease, be sure to communicate this to your veterinarian, as the medication must be used with caution in these pets.

When is Cerenia Not an Option for Your Cat?

Generally, a cat with liver disease is not a great candidate for Cerenia; however, your veterinarian can help you determine what the best course of action is in this case.

Cerenia for Cats Dosage Chart

Your veterinarian provides exact dosages. The table below is only an example of dosages for injectables and tablets.

Alternatives to Cerenia for Cats

Often, if Cerenia is not an effective medication for your cat, the other medication prescribed is Zofran. This is also an antiemetic medication that your veterinarian might prescribe. An over-the-counter med that you can use for treating motion sickness and nausea in cats is Dramamine. For long-term management of nausea in cats, you may also wish to discuss the use of supplements like probiotics and digestive enzymes with your veterinarian to put together a proper plan of care for your kitty.

How to Treat Cerenia Overdose in Cats

If you suspect your cat has overdosed on Cerenia, be sure to reach out to your veterinarian right away. If it’s after hours, reach out to your local animal hospital for instructions on how to proceed. Depending on the severity of symptoms, you may need to rush your cat to the hospital for treatment and observation.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Jeng_Niamwhan