Although it is one of the common drugs prescribed for nervous or anxious cats, Amitriptyline should be administered carefully. This drug is an anti-anxiety medication and is useful for dealing with feline separation anxiety, excessive grooming, nervousness, spraying and inappropriate elimination. It is a powerful antihistamine, and blocks the parasympathetic nervous system along with other nervous system functions.
Dosage
- Follow the dosage recommended and in case you miss a dose, skip it entirely.
- Do not overdose at a time. Amitriptyline can be highly toxic in large doses, which can lead to death.
- Since Amitriptyline is bitter, it may be difficult to administer in a tablet form.
- You may get a liquid form or a topical gel which may be easier to dispense.
Amitriptyline has shown to have many side effects, ranging from short term changes to serious ramifications. A thorough knowledge of these can help you get the best results for your cat and avoid medical emergencies.
Side Effects
- Excessive salivation
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth (displayed by licking of lips)
- Urinary retention
- Constipation
- Marked change in appetite
- Weight gain
- Dishevelled fur
- Confusion and disorientation
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Easily bruised skin
- Irritated skin due to the gel
- Low blood pressure
- Allergic reactions
- Facial puffiness
- Rapid onset of diarrhea
- Convulsions
- Discoloured gums
- Limbs feel cold
- Coma
Precautions
- Do not administer Amitriptyline if your cat is allergic to drugs that belong to the class of tricyclic antidepressants.
- Since there is a high chance of your cat developing a cardiac disturbance, an EKG should be done before starting this medication.
- If your cat has a liver impairment or is diabetic, avoid the use of Amitriptyline. If your cat is going to be on this drug for a long term, it's better to conduct periodic blood tests to ensure that her liver is healthy.
- Do not use this medication if your cat is pregnant or lactating.
Amitriptyline in Combination
It is better to avoid the use of Amitriptyline along with other psychotropic substances.
- Interactions may occur if Amitriptyline is administered with vitamins, appetite stimulants and supplements.
- It can cause reactions when used with sympathomimetic amines such as ephedrine, phenylpropanolamine (Proin, Cystolamine), methimazole, or other antithyroid drugs and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as selegiline.
- It may also have a converse effect when used with amitraz, which is found in some flea collars and in Mitabin, which is a medication for mange.
- When used in conjunction with the wrong drugs, Amitriptyline may alter blood glucose levels or cause a dangerous drop in the white blood cell count.
- Amitriptyline is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian. Although it's primarily a drug meant for human use, it can be prescribed legally by a vet as an extra-label drug. Having an understanding of the drug, its uses and its side effects, can help you make an informed decision and guarantee a healthy, happy and content cat.