Cat Pain Medicine

Always speak with your vet before providing cat pain medicine, and never use human pain meds unless directed to do so by your veterinarian. Many human pain meds are toxic to cats in their typical human doses, including popular over-the-counter pain medicines like NSAIDs (ibuprofen [Advil & Motrin], naproxen [Aleve], aspirin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Aspirin, in particular, is especially dangerous for cats – even in small doses.

Fortunately, Dutch provides several pain medications formulated specifically for cats that are safe and effective for arthritis and joint pain, injuries, dental pain, and more. You can schedule an appointment for a same-day consultation with a licensed veterinarian and create a customized pain management plan.

Three of the most popular prescription pain medicines for cats are:

• Gabapentin
• MeLOXIcam
• Onsior 

If you’re unsure of which is best, worry not! The online vets at Dutch will make sure you are getting the right prescription for your cat’s unique needs. Also, keep in mind that Dutch members get free shipping on pharmacy orders.

Most pain medicine for cats is offered in prescription-only format because cats’ smaller bodies can be very sensitive to pain medicine, and need careful dosing from a qualified veterinarian.

Dutch can connect you with an online veterinarian to create a customized pain-management plan for your cat, and provide guidance for any over-the-counter pain medicine for cats that may be safe and available. Remember: never use pain meds from your medicine cabinet for a cat unless under direct orders by a veterinarian.

If prescription pain relief is necessary for your cat, Dutch makes it fast & easy to schedule an appointment with an online veterinarian. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and work with the vet to create a customized treatment plan for your cat which may include prescription pain relief.

Dutch members enjoy free shipping on pharmacy orders, and can expect quick access to vets as well as unlimited follow-ups. Members also receive great discounts on monthly flea & tick medications!

Rest easy: most pain medicine for cats have very mild side effects, if any. However, every cat is different so it’s important to discuss any concerns with your vet before administering medications and be sure to tell them about any medications or existing kidney and/or liver conditions.

Some of the more common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, loss of appetite, constipation, vomiting)
• Lethargy (low energy, loss of coordination)

Dosage and dosing intervals of cat medicine for pain should be discussed with your Dutch vet before administering, as each cat pain medicine is different and will have a unique effect. Make sure to carefully follow any instructions provided by the veterinarian and be ready to check for potential side effects.