Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Amitriptyline, a type of tricyclic antidepressant, is often prescribed for behavioural issues in dogs and cats. These issues include anxiety disorders in dogs, chronic pain in both dogs and cats, and various behaviour disorders in cats. This prescribed medication is available in different strengths. It is sometimes used to treat nerve pain in pets.
It's vital to understand that behaviour-modifying medications like Amitriptyline are most effective when combined with behaviour modification techniques, and training, in consultation with a veterinarian or a certified trainer. Treatment might also involve additional medications, daily routine adjustments, environmental changes, and supplements.
Amitriptyline functions by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters in the brain. These chemicals play a crucial role in regulating mood, behaviour, motivation, and cognition. Amitriptyline's role in increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters helps in moderating your pet’s mood and behaviour.
Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for dosing. Typically, Amitriptyline is administered once or twice daily, and it can be given with or without food. It may take several days or weeks of treatment to determine if treatment is effective for your pet. If discontinuing the medication, it’s important to do so gradually, following your vet’s weaning instructions.
Do not use a flea collar while giving Amitriptyline without first consulting your veterinarian. Amitriptyline can interact with other medications like SSRIs or sedatives, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include vomiting, seizures, and difficulty breathing. In case of an overdose, symptoms like lethargy and incoordination may occur. Immediately contact your veterinarian or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738.
Side effects in pets may include:
Store Amitriptyline at controlled room temperatures, away from moisture and light. Follow specific storage instructions on the label or as guided by your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian might suggest regular monitoring or tests while your pet is on this medication, tailored to your pet’s unique situation, any other medications they're taking, and the initial problem that led to the prescription of this drug.
Contact your veterinarian if:
How long does Amitriptyline take to work on pets?
What is the dosage for dogs and cats?
Can Amitriptyline help with anxiety in dogs?
Amitriptyline is a significant medication in the management of behavioural disorders in cats and dogs. However, it is crucial to use this medication under the guidance of a veterinarian and as part of a broader treatment plan that includes behaviour modification. For more information or assistance, always consult your veterinarian.