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Health & Wellness

What you need to know about giving your cat Cerenia

Cerenia can be used to treat a variety of issues in cats.

Gastrointestinal issues are common for pets, and if your cat is vomiting or feeling queasy, your vet may prescribe Cerenia to ease their tummy troubles. Introducing a new medication can be stressful for both pets and parents, so we spoke to a veterinarian to get all the information you need on Cerenia and why it’s prescribed for cats.

Why is Cerenia prescribed for cats? 

Your vet may recommend Cerenia for your cat for a variety of reasons. Cerenia not only treats nausea, vomiting and motion sickness in cats but is also commonly administered before surgery with anesthesia, says Dr. Emily Singler, VMD.

According to Dr. Singler, Cerenia can also 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 less common, some veterinarians might recommend using Cerenia for cats as a pain-reliever, and studies show it can be helpful to treat itchiness that’s related to fleas or food allergies.

Side effects of Cerenia in cats

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 should 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.

Different forms of Cerenia for cats

Cerenia comes in a few different forms, including drops, pills and injection. 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 to Cerenia seems abnormal. 

You can get the guaranteed lowest price on Cerenia and other medications for your cat on FetchPetRx.com.

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.

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