It is likely that in our home medicine cabinet we have metoclopramide and we feel tempted to give it to our cat if one day we find him vomiting. But the truth is that, although metoclopramide is an active ingredient that cats can use, it should only be administered following the prescription of the veterinarian after examining and diagnosing it. Otherwise, metoclopramide for cats could be harmful.
In this article on our site we tell you all the details about the use of metoclopramide in cats, its possible side effects and much more.
What is metoclopramide?
Metoclopramide is a drug known above all for its antiemetic effect, that is, it acts to control vomiting and nausea. But it also affects intestinal mobility and, additionally, prevents gastric reflux. It is included in the group of orthopramides. It has a central mechanism of action, which is what achieves its antiemetic activity, and a peripheral one, which is what stimulates gastrointestinal movement. After oral administration, the maximum plasma concentration is reached after two hours, with a half-life of 90 minutes. Crosses the blood-brain barrier.
We can find metoclopramide for cats in various formats, such as injectable, which will be administered directly by the veterinarian. The injection can be administered intramuscularly, subcutaneously, or intravenously. To give it to the cat at home, metoclopramide drops are more comfortable.
What is metoclopramide for cats for?
Metoclopramide is used to treat and prevent vomiting, reflux, and reduce intestinal motility that occurs in conditions such as gastritis, chronic nephritis, which is inflammation of the kidney with repercussions on the digestive system, or intolerance to some drugs. It relieves nausea and gas accumulation and promotes emptying of the stomach into the duodenum. Of course, when the vomiting is very intense and the cat is dehydrated, it is not enough to give metoclopramide and it is likely that it will have to be hospitalized to administer fluid therapy and intravenous medication.
Metoclopramide Dosage for Cats
The dose of metoclopramide in cats can only be set by the veterinarian depending on the weight of the cat and the condition it suffers from. It is very important to determine it exactly so that the treatment is effective and as safe as possible. As a guide, metoclopramide injections are usually 0.5 mg for every kg of cat weight. This dose can be repeated every 6-8 hours, depending on the evolution. Instead, metoclopramide drops for cats are administered between 1 and 2 per kg, also every 6-8 hours. Six hours is the minimum time that can elapse between two shots. It must be taken into account that this dosage may be altered in those specimens with renal or hepatic insufficiency.
On the other hand, it is better to give metoclopramide before the meal If the cat vomits it or makes a large amount of foam, the veterinarian must be informed in case it is necessary to change the format to the injectable presentation, which cannot be rejected. The duration of the treatment will depend on the evolution of the cat.
Contraindications of metoclopramide for cats
Metoclopramide should not be given to cats with intestinal obstruction, bleeding or perforation It is also not recommended for those diagnosed with epilepsy or with seizures or, of course, for those who have previously had an allergic reaction to metoclopramide.
On the other hand, there are no studies on the safety of administering metoclopramide to pregnant or lactating cats. In these cases, it will be the veterinarian who decides, based on the assessment of the advantages and disadvantages, whether or not it is appropriate to resort to metoclopramide. Finally, if the cat is taking any medication and the veterinarian does not know it, we must inform him, as interactions could occur or an increased risk of side effects.
Side Effects of Metoclopramide for Cats
It is rare for metoclopramide to cause any side effects. In a small percentage of cats we might detect:
- nervousness
- coordination
- abnormal postures and movements
- prostration
- aggression and behavior changes
- sedation
- drowsiness
- tremors
- diarrhea
- excess vocalizations
Normally, all these symptoms disappear when the treatment is withdrawn. They can also occur when the dose we administer exceeds the recommended one In this case, it is advisable to keep the cat in a quiet place and notify the veterinarian so that he can determine the most appropriate follow-up appropriate. There is no specific antidote, but since metoclopramide is rapidly metabolized and eliminated, these side effects usually disappear within a short time.
On the other hand, some cats may experience allergic reactions. In prolonged treatments constipation may appear. In any case, any sign that the cat shows that seems like a reaction to metronidazole should be reported to the veterinarian. Finally, keep in mind that if your cat suffers from kidney or liver failure, the risk of adverse effects increases. The vet will adjust the dose to avoid this as much as possible.
