{"id":631412,"date":"2025-02-27T09:30:58","date_gmt":"2025-02-27T14:30:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=631412"},"modified":"2025-02-18T10:20:38","modified_gmt":"2025-02-18T15:20:38","slug":"buprenorphine-for-cats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/buprenorphine-for-cats\/","title":{"rendered":"Can cats take buprenorphine?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your feline friend is in pain, you want to help them find relief\u2014and fast. For short-term issues, such as surgery or injury, your veterinarian might prescribe <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/buprenorphine-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">buprenorphine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an analgesic (pain reliever) that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cats in 2014. Find out what animal health experts recommend when using buprenorphine for cats.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-buprenorphine-used-for-in-cats\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is buprenorphine used for in cats?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cBuprenorphine is a pain medication used primarily for pain relief in cats,\u201d says <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/everycat.org\/about\/our-staff-and-board\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dean Vicksman<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) and the board president of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/everycat.org\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">EveryCat Health Foundation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It works by targeting receptors in the central nervous system to reduce discomfort. Buprenorphine is a controlled substance that is often administered at the veterinarian\u2019s office, though certain formulations may be prescribed for at-home use.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s used to treat acute pain from:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surgeries, such as spays and neuters<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental procedures, like a tooth removal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Urinary tract issues<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wounds, such as bite wounds<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Injuries<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An extensive <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/jvp.13073\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">review of the evidence<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> found buprenorphine is effective for pain control after surgical procedures in cats. However, there is no supporting data for its use for chronic pain, such as arthritis.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are two versions of buprenorphine that are specifically formulated for cats:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Simbadol:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> an injectable formulation of buprenorphine that lasts for 24 hours, often given by the veterinarian along with an anesthetic for a surgery<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Zorbium:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> a solution applied transdermally (to the skin) that provides pain relief for up to 4 days<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The human form of buprenorphine, also sold under the brand name Buprenex, is also often used in cats, but it\u2019s considered <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/off-label-prescription-drugs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">off-label use<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"is-buprenorphine-safe-for-cats\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is buprenorphine safe for cats?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, buprenorphine is safe for cats. It is FDA approved for post-operative pain, but veterinarians also use it for other types of pain management in felines.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extra caution should be given when using buprenorphine for cats with a history of liver disease and kidney disease. Like any medication, there are side effects and interactions to be aware of before administering it to your cat.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"side-effects-of-buprenorphine-in-cats\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side effects of buprenorphine in cats<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of buprenorphine in cats can include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Euphoria or excitement<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dilated pupils<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">More serious side effects and adverse reactions cats may experience on buprenorphine include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Respiratory depression (shallow or slow breathing)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowed heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hyperthermia, or increased body temperature<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Speak to your vet first about what to expect when giving your cat this medication at home or after bringing your cat home from the vet. If your cat experiences serious lethargy or frequent vomiting, seek prompt medical treatment for your cat.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"interactions-of-buprenorphine-with-other-pet-meds\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interactions of buprenorphine with other pet meds<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some drugs may interact with buprenorphine, so be sure to share a full list of your pet\u2019s medications. Since buprenorphine can cause sedation, be mindful of giving any other sedatives to your cat at the same time. Some drugs with known interactions with buprenorphine include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anticonvulsants<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benzodiazepines<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naloxone<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also, be sure to tell your veterinarian about any supplements your pet may take, like CBD treats, to ensure your cat doesn\u2019t experience a dangerous drug interaction.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"buprenorphine-dosage-for-cats\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buprenorphine dosage for cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cThe dosage typically ranges from 0.02 to 0.04 milligrams per kilogram, given every 8 to 12 hours,\u201d says Dr. Vicksman. It\u2019s essential only to use the exact dosage for cats rather than sharing your human prescription.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-cats-overdose-on-buprenorphine\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can cats overdose on buprenorphine?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cats can overdose on buprenorphine, which is why it\u2019s so important only to give the prescribed amount as determined by your veterinarian. Thankfully, an overdose of buprenorphine is rarely fatal or life-threatening for cats.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs of buprenorphine overdose in cats include vomiting and severe lethargy or sedation. If you notice these signs of overdose, seek medical attention from your local veterinarian.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-give-my-cat-buprenorphine-every-day\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I give my cat buprenorphine every day?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cThere is no evidence that it cannot be taken long-term,\u201d explains Christina Holmes, DVM, an Emergency and Critical Care Veterinarian at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thrivepetcare.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thrive Pet Healthcare Specialists<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thrivepetcare.com\/locations\/texas\/san-antonio\/emergency-pet-clinic-sa#aboutus\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Antonio<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. However, it\u2019s not the best option for chronic pain for most pet owners because it is an opioid and controlled substance, and administration can be difficult.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"how-to-give-your-cat-buprenorphine\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to give your cat buprenorphine<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are multiple formulations of buprenorphine for cats:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Injection<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transdermal (absorbed through the skin)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oral solution (also called transmucosal, administered under the tongue or in the cheek pouch)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on what type of buprenorphine product your vet recommends, they will give you the exact instructions for administration. The drug should also come with detailed instructions for its formulation. Typically, buprenorphine is given as an injection at the veterinary facility rather than at the pet owner\u2019s home.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you forget a dose, you can adjust the medication schedule. Give your cat the missed dose when noticed, and then wait 8 to 12 hours before giving them another dose. Since buprenorphine is typically given for short-term uses, there is no need to taper the prescription before ending it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"buprenorphine-alternatives-for-cats\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buprenorphine alternatives for cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are several alternatives for buprenorphine. Other pain-relieving medications for cats, which all will require a veterinarian\u2019s prescription, include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/gabapentin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gabapentin<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) formulated for cats like Onsior (robenacoxib)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Solensia (frunevetmab)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/tramadol-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"the-bottom-line\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bottom line<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treating pain with buprenorphine may be right for your cat after surgeries or other procedures. When determining the best course of treatment for managing your cat\u2019s pain, your veterinarian can develop the proper treatment plan.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If your feline friend is in pain, you want to help them find relief\u2014and fast. For short-term issues, such as surgery or injury, your veterinarian might prescribe buprenorphine, an analgesic (pain reliever) that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cats in 2014. Find out what animal health experts recommend when [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":135,"featured_media":631413,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7956],"tags":[15095,3344,808],"coauthors":[15090],"class_list":["post-631412","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pets","tag-cats","tag-opioids","tag-pain-management","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Buprenorphine for cats: Dosage and safety<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn if cats can safely take buprenorphine for pain relief, how it works, proper dosage guidelines, common uses, and potential risks to ensure your feline\u2019s health and safety.\" \/>\n<meta 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