When a cat is in pain, it can be heartbreaking for pet owners who want to help relieve their suffering. Many people wonder if human pain medications, like ibuprofen or aspirin, can be safely given to cats. While it may be tempting to give your cat medication from your own medicine cabinet, this should be avoided in most cases. There are safer options for providing pain relief specifically formulated for cats.
The Dangers of Human Pain Relievers for Cats
Human over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin can be highly toxic to cats. This is because cats lack certain liver enzymes that people have to process these types of medication. Giving a cat an improper dose of one of these drugs can lead to devastating effects including:
- Kidney damage or failure
- Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding
- Anemia
- Liver damage
- Heart problems
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
Even a single tablet of ibuprofen can cause effects like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite and kidney dysfunction in a cat. The toxic dose depends on the medication, the size of the cat, and if damage is acute or accumulates over time. But any amount has the potential to lead to toxicity and should be avoided.
Better Options for Cat Pain Control
The good news is that there are pain medications specifically formulated for safe use in cats. Under the guidance of a veterinarian, these drugs can provide effective pain relief without the dangers of human medications. Some examples include:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAID options for cats include:
- Meloxicam – Available as oral suspensions or tablets that provide up to 24 hours of pain relief for conditions like arthritis or postoperative pain. Meloxicam blocks inflammation-causing COX-2 enzymes while sparing COX-1 enzymes that protect the gut. This makes it gentler on a cat’s stomach compared to older NSAIDs.
- Robenacoxib – An oral tablet that selectively targets COX-2 enzymes. It is approved for acute pain and inflammation from conditions like osteoarthritis and orthopedic surgery.
- Grapiprant – The first selective inhibitor of the EP4 prostaglandin receptor for treating arthritis pain and inflammation in cats. It has minimal impact on the gut, kidneys, and liver.
- Ketoprofen – Used for management of fever and acute pain from inflammation. May also be used to help with chronic arthritis pain when combined with other medications.
- Deracoxib – Used for postoperative pain control in cats, though it is not yet FDA approved in the United States.
These NSAID options require a prescription from a veterinarian and should be carefully dosed based on your cat’s size and health conditions. NSAIDs can still have some effects on the stomach, kidneys, or liver with long-term use. Your vet will monitor your cat and recommend any needed follow up testing to ensure safety.
Opioids
Opioid drugs like tramadol, hydrocodone, or buprenorphine can be prescribed by a vet for moderate to severe pain. These need to be used cautiously even under veterinary guidance due to risks of side effects like:
- Sedation or disorientation
- Constipation
- Heart and respiratory depression
- Development of dependence
Opioids will likely be prescribed for short-term use after injuries or surgery. Your vet will determine dosing based on the severity of your cat’s pain and closely monitor their response.
Other Drug Options
Some other medications a vet may recommend for pain include:
- Gabapentin – An anticonvulsant sometimes used to ease neuropathic pain and pain from injuries or arthritis. It can cause sedation.
- Amitriptyline – An antidepressant that may help with certain chronic pain conditions in cats.
- Steroids – Powerful anti-inflammatories like prednisone may help with some types of pain, but should be carefully dosed and monitored due to significant side effects with long-term use.
Your vet can advise if any of these additional medications may be appropriate for your cat’s situation. Never give your cat a medication without the direction of a veterinarian no matter how safe it seems.
When to Call the Vet
If your cat is displaying signs of pain or discomfort, it’s important to get veterinary guidance right away on appropriate pain relief. Some signs your cat may be in pain include:
- Hiding or isolating themselves
- Reluctance to jump up or go up stairs
- Changed sleeping or eating habits
- Aggression or anti-social behavior
- Excessive vocalization or changes in their meow
- Limping, holding up a limb, or flinching when touched
- Loss of grooming habits
- Dilated pupils
- Panting or shivering
- Lethargy or depression
Cats instinctively hide their pain, so any behavioral changes can signal an issue. It’s always best to call your vet if you suspect a problem. They can help pinpoint the source of discomfort and get your cat appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
Using Medication Safely Under Vet Guidance
While human pain relievers can poison cats, there are many effective options for relieving feline pain safely with the help of your veterinarian. Keep the following tips in mind when giving your cat any prescribed pain medication:
- Follow dosage directions precisely and never exceed the recommended amount or frequency without vet approval.
- Call your vet if side effects develop or if the medication does not seem to be adequately controlling pain.
- Use the medication for the shortest duration possible.
- Never combine the medication with supplements, other drugs, or over-the-counter remedies without vet approval.
- Store the medication securely out of your cat’s reach.
- Properly dispose of any unused medication instead of flushing to prevent environmental contamination.
- Bring your cat in for any follow up exams or bloodwork recommended by your vet.
With your vet overseeing your cat’s treatment, medications can bring safe, effective relief to your beloved feline companion. Avoid the temptation to give cats human drugs that can seriously endanger their health.
Natural Pain Relief Methods
In addition to veterinary prescribed medications, there are some natural options that may help provide gentle pain relief for cats:
Joint Supplements
Supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can help support joint health and ease arthritis discomfort. Talk to your vet about recommended anti-inflammatory doses for your cat.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture performed by a trained veterinary practitioner can stimulate nerve pathways that block pain signals. It may help relieve chronic pain from arthritis, injuries, or illness.
Massage
Gentle pet massage can increase circulation, relax muscles, and reduce pain. Focus on gently stroking areas of tension like the legs, back, and neck. Only massage if your cat is receptive and stop if they seem distressed.
Heat or Cold Therapy
A heating pad set on low or cool compress can help soothe sore, inflamed joints or muscles. Always supervise use and stop if your cat seems distressed. Do not use for more than 15 minutes at a time.
Stress Reduction
Helping reduce your cat’s stress through calming pheromones, routine, or enrichment activities can help minimize pain episodes. Less stress equals less inflammation and discomfort.
Talk to your vet about whether these complementary options are appropriate for your cat’s pain symptoms. Though gentler than medications, only use natural methods under veterinary guidance.
When to See a Vet for Cat Pain
While there may be times you can manage minor pain at home, it’s important to involve your vet any time your cat shows signs of discomfort, which may include:
- Limping, lameness, or trouble moving around
- Reluctance to jump up or go up stairs
- Hiding or isolating themselves more
- Excessive grooming or licking at a particular area
- Appetite changes or lack of interest in food
- Aggression or unusual irritability
- Excess meowing or unusual vocalizations
- Dilated pupils
- Shivering, panting, or shaking
- Loss of interest in play or interaction
- Depression or lethargy
Since cats instinctively mask pain, any behavior changes could signal an underlying problem. It’s better to have your vet evaluate your cat sooner rather than later for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Get emergency vet care immediately if your cat shows symptoms like:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Sudden collapse or inability to stand
- Signs of trauma or injury after an accident
- Blue-tinged gums or tongue
- Seizures or convulsions
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- High fever
- Crying or whining from pain
While you know your cat’s regular patterns and behaviors best, it’s always wise to consult your vet any time something seems off with your pet. Proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible provides the best relief for your cat.
Pain Medication Precautions for Cats
If your veterinarian prescribes your cat medication for pain relief, be sure to take the following precautions:
- Give the exact dosage prescribed at the proper intervals. Never exceed, skip, or alter dosage unless advised by your vet.
- Do not crush or break tablets without vet approval, as this can change how the medication is absorbed.
- Use the medication for the shortest duration possible.
- Store medication in original containers and keep securely out of your cat’s reach.
- Contact your vet if side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes, or lethargy develop.
- Do not combine medication with any over-the-counter remedies, supplements, or other drugs without vet approval.
- Dispose of unused medication properly instead of flushing to prevent environmental contamination.
- Bring your cat in for any follow up exams or bloodwork recommended by your vet to ensure medication safety.
With proper precautions, you can help your cat reap the benefits of prescription pain relief while avoiding risks of overdose. Partner closely with your veterinarian for safe, effective pain management.
Signs It’s Time to Change Cat’s Pain Medication
If your cat is taking a prescription medication for pain management, watch closely for any signs that the drug may not be working effectively or safely. Contact your vet right away if you notice:
- Increased pain – If your cat seems to be in more discomfort, the medication may not be controlling the pain well enough.
- Different pain symptoms – New pain symptoms could indicate the underlying condition is changing and requires a medication adjustment.
- Changes in litter box habits – Issues like increased frequency, straining, or accidents could be a side effect of the medication.
- Constipation – Hard stools, straining, or inability to defecate are common signs of constipation that warrant medication reassessment.
- Diarrhea – Loose stools or accidents signal the medication may be irritating your cat’s digestive tract.
- Vomiting – Frequent vomiting or regurgitation may indicate nausea from the medication.
- Appetite changes – Medication side effects often suppress appetite or thirst. Increased hunger can also signal the drug is wearing off prematurely.
- Lethargy – Being overly tired, sluggish, or sedated can mean the dosage is too high.
- Uncontrolled pain – If the drug does not provide adequate relief, your vet will need to adjust the dose or switch medications.
- Aggression – Disinhibition and aggression like growling, swatting, or biting could indicate medication behavioral side effects.
Stay vigilant for any side effects or other signs that your cat’s pain is not well controlled on the current medication. Alert your vet promptly so they can make changes for your cat’s comfort and safety.
Conclusion
Cats can safely experience pain relief through veterinary-prescribed medications and natural methods. However, giving a cat human drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin can be extremely toxic and should always be avoided. Partner with your vet for the right pain control plan for your feline companion. With the proper treatment, your beloved cat can feel comfortable while healing from injury, illness or the effects of aging.