Temaril-P is a prescription medication that can be recommended for felines that suffer from itchy skin and coughs. The drug contains trimeprazine and prednisolone, which have anti inflammatory effects and may also reduce irritation. Temaril-P should only be administered if recommended by your vet, as it is not FDA approved for use in felines.
Temaril-P for Felines
Temaril-P can be administered in felines and is a combination of 2 drugs:
- Prednisolone (2 mg per tablet), a corticosteroid that can reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
- Trimeprazine (5 mg per tablet), which is an antihistamine that suppresses the activity of the histamines produced by the immune system
Temaril-P can be recommended in cats that are affected by:
- Allergies, which often cause itchiness
- Coughing, due to respiratory infections or allergies
- Idiopathic itchiness
- Itchy skin caused by stress
The Effects of Temaril-P for Cats
Temaril-P can reduce inflammation within a few hours after starting the treatment. If the cat is coughing, this can go away in a few days after the treatment is started. Some cats may respond better to the medication with Temaril-P. Temaril-P is only effective in addressing certain symptoms, but the cat should be diagnosed and receive treatment for the underlying condition that causes these symptoms.
Side Effects of Temaril-P in Cats
Temaril-P may have side effects that are similar to the side effects experienced if the pet receives antihistamines or immune system suppressants. Most commonly, the cat will display polyuria (increased urination) and polydipsia (increased thirst). Other side effects may include:
- Sleepiness
- Pale and dry gums and tongue
- Slower heart beat
- Fluid retention
- Behavior changes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Low blood pressure or hypotension
You should contact your vet if you notice side effects such as:
- Muscle spasms or tremors
- Sedation
- Lack of coordination
- Confusion
- Seizures
The vet will discontinue the treatment and see if these side effects are associated with the administration of Temaril-P.
How to Administer Temaril-P to Cats
Temaril-P is a drug that is administered in the form of tablets. The drug is FDA approved only in canines, but may also be used in felines, as an extra label drug. For this reason, the dosage should be established only by the vet and you should respect it. The dosage will be determined according to the cat’s weight. The cat will receive ½ to 1 tablet twice per day. The administration of Temaril-P is only recommended for a short period of time to prevent side effects. The initial dosage will be halved after 3 to 5 days of treatment. If the cat shows no sign of improvement after 7 days, the treatment can be discontinued.
The drug cannot be used in pets that are:
- Allergic to corticosteroids
- Allergic to antihistamines
- Have diabetes
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
When administered in conjunction with sedatives, pain killers, phenobarbital, diuretics, insulin and epinephrine, the dose of Temaril-P should be lowered. Some vets will avoid administering Temaril-P if the cat takes any of the above mentioned medications.