Gabapentin in Cats: Sedation, Analgesia, and Behavioral Effects
Gabapentin has become an increasingly important tool in feline veterinary medicine due to its sedative, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties. Veterinary visits can be stressful for cats, with fear-based behaviors often complicating examinations and procedures. Addressing these challenges is critical for both patient welfare and practitioner safety.
A recent systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, evaluated the sedative, behavioral, analgesic, and cardiovascular effects of gabapentin in cats. The review, conducted between March and September 2024, screened 543 articles, ultimately including 20 studies that met the criteria for detailed analysis.
Key Findings:
Sedation and Behavior: Gabapentin demonstrated consistent anxiolytic and sedative effects, helping to reduce stress-related behaviors during veterinary visits. Its calming properties can facilitate safer and more efficient handling of feline patients.
Analgesia: The drug also showed analgesic benefits, supporting its use for pain management in various clinical scenarios.
Cardiovascular Safety: Importantly, gabapentin did not alter cardiovascular parameters, echocardiographic measurements, or hemodynamic stability, indicating its safety even in cats with underlying cardiac concerns.
Administration Considerations: Effects may be dose-dependent, though no definitive dosage guideline was established. Gabapentin can be administered with wet or dry food, improving compliance.
Clinical Implications:
Gabapentin is a valuable adjunct for veterinarians managing stressful feline encounters, whether for routine exams, diagnostic procedures, or minor interventions. Its dual benefits—reducing anxiety while providing analgesia without cardiovascular compromise—make it particularly useful in cats that are difficult to handle or have chronic pain conditions.
This review reinforces the role of gabapentin as a safe, effective, and practical option for improving feline patient welfare and facilitating veterinary care. While further research is warranted to optimize dosing strategies, current evidence supports its use as a standard component of feline sedation and pain management protocols.
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A Systematic Review of the Sedative, Behavioral, Analgesic and Cardiovascular Effects of Gabapentin in Cats
