Trazodone is an antidepressant commonly used to treat depression in humans. It can also provide relief from anxiety and has proven beneficial in treating certain medical conditions in dogs. Do not give your pet any medication without the advice of your veterinarian. Before giving any medication, it is wise to familiarize yourself with the correct dosage for your pet.
A Trazodone For Dogs Dosage Chart By Weight is a helpful resource for pet owners. The chart will provide the correct amount of medication to be taken to properly treat your furry friend’s medical condition. Make sure to always adhere to the prescribed dosage and never give your pet more than the recommended amount.
What Is Trazodone?
Trazodone is an antidepressant drug that is most frequently used to treat depression. It can also be used to treat anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other mental health conditions. Trazodone works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
It helps to balance the activity of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the brain. It can reduce the symptoms of depression, such as sadness, lack of energy, loss of interest, and lack of concentration. In addition, trazodone can help with insomnia by improving sleep patterns and reducing the time it takes to fall asleep.
Trazodone For Dogs Dosage Chart By Weight
| Trazodone Dosage | Weight in Pounds | Weight in Kilograms |
|---|---|---|
| Ask your Vet | Under 5 lbs | Under 2 kg |
| 20-25 m | 10-20 lbs | 5-10 kg |
| 50-55 mg | 20-30 lbs | 10-15 kg |
| 75-80 mg | 30-40 lbs | 16-20 kg |
| 100-120 mg | 40-60 lbs | 20-30 kg |
| 150-175 mg | 70-90 lbs | 35-40 kg |
| 200-250 mg | 100 lbs or More | 45 kg or More |
How Much Trazodone For A 60 lb Dog?
The recommended dose of trazodone for a 60 lb dog is 100 to 120mg per pound of body weight orally every 24 hours. Before administering trazodone, please consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate dosage for your pet.
How To Administer Trazodone To Your Dog
- Make sure that your veterinarian has prescribed trazodone for your dog. If not, ask a veterinarian about the appropriateness of use in your dog.
- Give the trazodone to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. Typically, the prescribed dosage is based on the weight of the dog.
- If you are giving a liquid form of trazodone, measure the appropriate amount and mix it with a flavor reward such as plain yogurt, peanut butter, or canned dog food.
- Open your dog’s mouth and place the appropriate dose on the back of its tongue. Close the dog’s mouth and gently massage its throat in a downward motion to help your pet swallow the medication.
- Give your dog some water afterward to wash down the trazodone.
- Monitor your dog’s response to trazodone for any side effects such as sedation, dry mouth, or appetite changes. Contact your veterinarian immediately if any of these occur.
Dog Trazodone Dose Calculator
The Dog Trazodone Dose Calculator is a free tool designed to help veterinarians and pet owners find better and more accurate information about the optimal dose of trazodone for their dogs. This calculator takes into account things like the dog’s weight, breed, and general health in order to come up with a more accurate dosage recommendation.
The calculator also allows pet owners to save their dog’s dosage information for easy reference in the future. This tool is particularly useful for finding the correct dosage for elderly dogs, whose age and health may not be accurately reflected in traditional dosage charts.
How To Calculate Trazodone Dosage For Dogs
- The starting dose for trazodone in dogs is 2.5 mg per kilogram of body weight (1 kg = 2.2 lbs).
- To calculate the starting dose (in mg) divide the dog’s weight (in lbs) by 2.2. Then, multiply that number by 2.5.
Example:
A 25 lb dog weighs 11.36 kg.
The starting dose is 11.36 kg x 2.5 = 28.4 mg.
- Administer the dose orally one to two times daily.
- Monitor the dog’s response closely. Don’t hesitate to adjust the dosage if necessary.
- If your dog’s anxiety is not improving, the veterinarian may consider increasing the dosage slowly up to 8.75 mg per kg of body weight.
- It’s important to never exceed the recommended dosage. If you have any questions, check with your vet.
Dog Anxiety Trazodone Dosage
Dog anxiety trazodone dosage is typically prescribed to help alleviate moderate to severe anxiety in dogs. It is an antidepressant that is commonly used in humans and has been utilized in veterinary medicine since 1982.
The dose that should be given to a dog depends on its weight, breed, and individual health and should be determined by a veterinarian. Generally, the dose ranges from 1-6mg/kg. It is important to always follow the prescribing instructions of the veterinarian when administering trazodone to monitor the dog for any side effects and alter the dosage (or discontinue use) if necessary.
Trazodone Dosage For Small Dogs
Trazodone dosage for small dogs depends on the size and condition of the dog. The usual starting dose is 2.5-5 mg per pound of body weight every 12-24 hours. This dose can then be adjusted as needed according to the dog’s response to treatment.
It is important to follow the recommendations of the veterinarian to ensure that the dog is receiving the correct dose. Overdosing or underdosing can lead to serious side effects or no therapeutic benefit.
The maximum dose of trazodone for dogs is 5-15 mg per pound given one to three times a day. Veterinarians often recommend starting with the lower dose and increasing gradually until the proper effect is achieved. It’s important to follow instructions when adjusting the dose as too high of a dose can cause serious health risks.
When To Use Trazodone For Dogs
Trazodone is typically prescribed for dogs to help manage anxiety and depression. It can also be used to help treat behavioral issues that might occur from separation anxiety. Additionally, it can be used to help dogs feel better if they are struggling with chronic pain, such as due to arthritis or cancer.
Keep in mind, however, that trazodone is not recommended for use in dogs younger than six months of age since puppies are still developing and heavily affected by changes in hormones, meaning that the effects of the medicine might be too strong.
It is also important to note that trazodone may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. It is important to discuss the risks associated with taking trazodone with your vet before starting your pet’s treatment. As always, your vet will be your best source of information and guidance when it comes to treating your pet.
Benefits And Uses Of Trazodone For Dogs
- Trazodone has been used to help manage anxiety in dogs, as well as to reduce aggression and help with phobias.
- It has also been used to help manage separation anxiety, including barking and destructive behaviors when left alone.
- It can help reduce abnormal and compulsive behaviors caused by conditions such as canine compulsive disorder.
- It may improve sleep in dogs that have anxiety-related insomnia.
- It has been known to help reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and improve response to reward-based training.
- Trazodone can help reduce pain caused by certain disorders, as well as be used to improve appetite.
Trazodone For Dogs Side Effects
Common side effects of trazodone for dogs include drowsiness, decreased activity, and weight gain. Other side effects include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, and changes in behavior. More serious side effects could be difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, blonde gums, and seizures.
How Does Trazodone Interact With Other Drugs?
Trazodone can interact with other drugs in dogs, including antidepressants, narcotics, antibiotics, and antihistamines. This drug can add to the effects of other drugs or increase their side effects and should be combined with caution. Pet owners should always consult a veterinarian before combining trazodone with any other medications.
Trazodone For Dogs: How Long Does It Last?
Trazodone typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour to take effect when given to dogs. Since trazodone is a long-acting medication, its effects can last from 6-12 hours or longer depending on the dose. Your veterinarian may adjust your pet’s dose or frequency of administration to achieve the desired effect.
Are There Any Natural Alternatives To Trazodone?
Yes, there are several natural alternatives to trazodone for dogs. Many holistic veterinarians recommend using herbs, such as Valerian Root, Passionflower, and Hops, to help ease anxiety and promote calming effects. Supplements like fish oil, B-Complex vitamins, and L-tryptophan are also believed to be effective in calming anxious dogs.
Trazodone for Dogs Alternatives
- Amitriptyline
- Alprazolam
- Clomicalm
- Clonidine
- Prozac
- Selegiline
- Xanax
- Buspar
- Acupuncture
- Natural Supplements (tryptophan, SAM-e, omega-3, etc.)
Trazodone Dog Overdose Symptoms
If you suspect your dog has overdosed on trazodone, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. The severity of symptoms and their onset time can vary depending on the amount ingested and your dog’s individual sensitivities.
Here are some common trazodone overdose symptoms in dogs to be aware of:
- Excessive sedation and lethargy: This is the most common sign, with your dog appearing unusually drowsy and unresponsive.
- Loss of coordination (ataxia): Your dog may stumble, have difficulty walking, or seem disoriented.
- Vomiting and diarrhea: These are digestive signs often seen in response to an overdose.
- Dilated pupils: Wide pupils can be a sign of elevated serotonin levels.
- Tremors and seizures: In severe cases, muscle tremors or even seizures can occur.
- Changes in heart rate and breathing: Rapid or irregular heartbeat, slow or shallow breathing, or even difficulty breathing can be alarming signs.
- Hyperthermia: Overheating due to the medication’s effects is a potential risk.
- Serotonin syndrome: This serious condition arises from excessive serotonin levels and can manifest with a combination of symptoms like fever, agitation, muscle rigidity, and hallucinations.
Trazodone For Dogs Reviews (what are verified dog parents saying?)
Verified dog parents who have used Trazodone for their dogs appear to generally have had positive experiences. Many reported that Trazodone helped their dog calm down and be less anxious, while others found it to help deal with separation anxiety.
They also reported that the medication helped their dog to sleep better. Many of these dog parents also stated that the medication was effective with few to no adverse side effects. Overall, it appears that the majority of these dog parents are satisfied with the effectiveness of Trazodone for their dog’s behavioral issues.
Conclusion
Trazodone is an effective medication for dogs, and when it is used correctly, it can help relieve your pet’s symptoms of anxiety and pain. The dosage needs to be carefully monitored to ensure the proper dose is given as too much or too little can lead to side-effects or worse. While Trazodone is generally safe, it is important to consult with your veterinarian prior to use to make sure that it is safe and appropriate for your pet’s specific needs. Additionally, you should always provide your vet with regular updates of your pet’s response to the drug, noting any side effects or changes in behavior.
FAQs
Can I give my dog trazodone every day?
No, you should not give your dog trazodone every day. Trazodone is an antidepressant prescribed for humans, and should only be given to dogs on an as-needed basis, and this should only be done under the direct supervision of a veterinarian.
Is Trazodone safe for dogs?
Yes, Trazodone is safe for dogs to take in prescribed doses. It is an approved drug for treating anxiety, depression, and aggression in dogs, though it should be used under the supervision of a veterinarian. It can cause side effects in some animals, so careful monitoring is necessary.
What happens if I give my dog too much trazodone?
If you give your dog too much trazodone, it is possible that the dog may become overly sedated, exhibit reduced coordination and reflexes, suffer from breathing difficulties and gastrointestinal upset, or be at an increased risk for seizures. It can also cause changes in behavior, such as excessive drowsiness, confusion, loss of appetite, and aggression.
Is trazodone for dogs the same as for humans
Trazodone is a medication used to treat anxiety and depression in both humans and dogs, but there are some important differences between how it is used in each species.