Pain Relief & Arthritis

Prescription Pain Relief for Cats: A List of Medications & Their Uses

Cats are great at concealing pain. While this trait was useful for survival in the wild, hiding discomfort isn’t so great for domesticated life. As a pet parent, this makes it so you to notice the slightest of changes. This could range from a decreased appetite to changes with grooming and their bathroom use. But before you determine the issue and reach for human medication, stop and schedule an appointment with their veterinarian.

A licensed professional will give your pet a full evaluation, diagnosis, and prescribe the right pain relief for cats to get them back on track. Keep reading to learn about the different prescription medications and anti-inflammatory treatments available for your feline.

What Can You Give a Cat for Pain?

Medicine crafted for humans and other pets are not always safe for cats. For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are safe for dogs but dangerous to felines. Only a veterinarian should prescribe prescription pain relief for cats to ensure proper dosing, intervals and time periods are followed. Here is a complete cat pain medication list available at Petco:

Dexamethasone: A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and treats autoimmune diseases like lupus, pemphigus, hemolytic anemias, and spinal cord diseases. It works by modifying the body’s immune response to prevent substances that trigger allergic and inflammatory actions. Oral tablets are safe for dogs and cats.

Gabapentin: An anticonvulsant that treats seizure disorders and chronic pain is safe for dogs and cats. There are two prescription strengths of gabapentin for cats available in tablet or capsule form.

Prednisolone: A synthetic corticosteroid that blocks the production of substances that spark allergic and inflammatory actions. Prednisolone for cats is used to treat arthritis, skin and eye conditions, cancer, severe allergies, breathing problems, and immune system disorders. Both dogs and cats can take this medication in a liquid drop or tablet form.

Prednisone: An anti-inflammatory medication that reduces swelling by decreasing the activity of certain cells and chemicals that cause inflammation. It is used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, brain swelling, cancers, kidney diseases, and specific types of colitis. Tablets are available for both dogs and cats.