8 reasons a veterinarian might prescribe Cerenia for your cat
Cerenia comes in multiple forms.
You’re planning a road trip with your cat, and you’ve mapped out all of the must-see sights and stops — you even bought your pet a leash for the occasion. The only thing you’re worried about is your cat’s history of motion sickness.
Don’t stress! Ask your veterinarian if Cerenia can help your feline friend combat nausea and make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
And if you're wondering if motion sickness is the only thing Cerenia treats, keep reading. There's lots to know about this medication.
What’s Cerenia for cats?
Cerenia not only treats nausea, vomiting and motion sickness but is also commonly administered before surgery with anesthesia, Dr. Emily Singler, VMD, Fetch’s on-staff veterinarian, says.
According to Dr. Singler, Cerenia can be a treatment method for chronic upper respiratory infections and inflammations, like when a cat has cystitis (when their bladder is inflamed).
Although it’s not too common, some veterinarians might recommend using Cerenia to relieve pain, and studies show it can be helpful to treat itchiness that’s related to fleas or food allergies.
Cerenia side effects
Some side effects, like fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, drooling, trouble breathing, balance issues, seizures and muscle tremors, are possible for cats taking Cerenia. And since Cerenia is used to treat vomiting, you'll want to let your vet know if this symptom occurs or continues, too.
If Cerenia is given to your cat as an injectable, they may experience discomfort at the injection site.
Cerenia might not be safe for cats with liver disease since it's processed by that organ — in that case, your vet will be able to suggest the right treatment alternative.
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How to give a cat Cerenia
Cats prescribed Cerenia as an ongoing medication will usually be given pills. However, if it’s administered at the vet’s office, it’ll likely be as an injectable formula.
If your cat’s struggling with an upper respiratory disease, your vet will probably prescribe nasal drops as it can get right into the affected area, Dr. Singler shares.
Some cats might not enjoy taking Cerenia, and that’s OK. Talk to your veterinarian about tablets or liquids that might be a better fit for your pet.
Cerenia dosage for cats
When your veterinarian prescribes Cerenia for your cat, they’ll also explain the proper dosage amount — make sure to follow their serving instructions.
Always ask your veterinarian if you have more questions about the medication or if you think your cat’s reaction seems abnormal.
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The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
