It’s a well-known fact among cat lovers: our feline companions are masters at concealing discomfort. Recognizing signs of pain in cats can be challenging, making it even more crucial to be informed about safe and effective pain management strategies. Many common pain medications used for humans and even other pets can be harmful or ineffective for cats. However, feline pain should never be ignored. Fortunately, with careful consideration and the right approach, you can significantly improve your cat’s comfort and quality of life. This guide will explain what you can safely give a cat for pain, and equally important, what you must avoid.
The Danger of Human Pain Medications for Cats
It is critical to understand that you should never administer pain medication intended for humans to your cat unless explicitly directed by your veterinarian. If you suspect your cat has ingested human pain medication, contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center immediately (1‐888‐426‐4435).
Many over-the-counter pain relievers that are safe for humans are extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Acetaminophen, commonly found in Tylenol, is particularly dangerous. Even a single regular-strength tablet can be fatal to some cats. Acetaminophen causes severe damage to red blood cells and the liver in cats and should absolutely never be used for feline pain.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available over-the-counter, such as ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin, also pose significant risks to cats. These medications can lead to serious complications, including gastrointestinal ulcers, liver and kidney damage, and disruption of normal blood clotting.
While there might be rare situations where a veterinarian might prescribe aspirin for cats, such as in cases where there’s a risk of blood clots, this is only done under very specific circumstances with extremely low and carefully calculated dosages. These medications are never safe for general at-home use for pain relief in cats.
Safe and Effective Pain Relief Options for Cats
The appropriate pain management strategy for your cat depends on several factors, including the type and intensity of pain, as well as your cat’s overall health condition. A veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination and consider these elements to create a safe and effective pain treatment plan tailored to your cat’s individual needs.
If you have accidentally given your cat a higher dose of prescribed pain medication than recommended, immediately contact your veterinarian or Animal Poison Control (1‐888‐426‐4435).
Here are some of the commonly prescribed and safe pain relief options for cats:
Prescription Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs) for Cats
Unlike their over-the-counter counterparts, certain prescription NSAIDs are specifically formulated for cats and can be used safely under veterinary guidance. These prescription NSAIDs work by selectively blocking enzymes that produce substances causing inflammation and pain, while minimizing interference with compounds that maintain normal bodily functions.
Compared to over-the-counter NSAIDs, prescription options are gentler on cats. They are designed to better maintain kidney blood flow, support normal blood clotting, and reduce the risk of stomach ulcers.
Onsior (robenacoxib)
Onsior is an FDA-approved prescription NSAID specifically for cats, primarily indicated for short-term pain and inflammation relief following surgery (up to 3 days). Veterinarians sometimes prescribe it “off-label” for longer-term management of chronic pain conditions like osteoarthritis or cancer.
Potential side effects of Onsior can include lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. In cases of overdose or in sensitive cats, more severe side effects such as gastrointestinal ulceration, liver damage, kidney damage, and bleeding or blood clotting issues can occur. It is crucial to adhere strictly to the veterinarian’s prescribed dosage.
Metacam (meloxicam)
Metacam, along with other brand-name and generic meloxicam products, is another prescription NSAID for cats.
An injectable form of Metacam is FDA-approved as a single dose for post-operative pain management in cats. The oral formulation is sometimes used “off-label” for longer-term management of chronic pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis or cancer.
While Metacam can be effective, prolonged use, especially at higher doses, carries a risk of kidney damage in cats. However, in many countries outside the United States, lower dosages of meloxicam have been used safely for long-term pain management in cats for many years. Your veterinarian will determine if Metacam is appropriate for your cat and will carefully monitor kidney function if it is used long-term.
Opioid Pain Medications for Cats
For cats experiencing moderate to severe pain, or when NSAIDs are not suitable due to underlying health conditions, veterinarians often turn to opioid pain relievers.
Opioids can be derived naturally from the poppy plant or synthesized in a laboratory. They work by binding to and blocking pain receptors in the nervous system, effectively reducing pain sensation. Due to their potential for misuse and addiction in humans, opioids are classified as controlled substances and require careful veterinary oversight.
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine is a versatile opioid that can be administered by injection or absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth, making it easier to give to cats. It is used for both short-term pain relief, such as after surgery or injury, and long-term management of chronic pain from conditions like osteoarthritis or cancer.
Buprenorphine is generally considered safe for cats when used as prescribed. However, possible side effects can include dilated or constricted pupils, euphoria or lethargy, elevated body temperature, vomiting, defecation, and slowed breathing.
Tramadol
Tramadol is another prescription opioid option for cats, available in tablet form. It can be used for both acute pain management (post-injury or surgery) and chronic pain conditions like osteoarthritis and cancer.
Tramadol has a bitter taste, which can make administering tablets challenging. Often, veterinarians will prescribe compounded liquid formulations with cat-friendly flavors, particularly for long-term use. Potential side effects of tramadol in cats include dilated or constricted pupils, lethargy, unusual behavior, gastrointestinal upset, constipation, and, in rare cases, seizures.
Duragesic (fentanyl patch)
Fentanyl patches are transdermal opioid delivery systems primarily used when cats require sustained relief from moderate to severe pain for several days, such as after major surgery or significant injury.
The patch is applied to a shaved area of skin and delivers a continuous dose of fentanyl. It is typically removed after the medication’s effect wears off, usually after about 5 days in cats. Fentanyl patches are generally safe when used correctly under veterinary direction, but similar to other opioids, potential side effects can include dilated or constricted pupils, euphoria or lethargy, increased body temperature, vomiting, defecation, and slowed breathing.
Veterinarians have access to and may prescribe other opioid medications for cats, depending on the specific pain management needs of the animal. These may include butorphanol, morphine, and hydromorphone.
Steroids for Inflammation-Related Pain in Cats
Corticosteroids, commonly known as steroids, are powerful anti-inflammatory medications. Reducing inflammation can indirectly alleviate pain. However, steroids like prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone are typically not used solely for pain relief, especially for long-term chronic pain. This is primarily due to the potential for significant side effects with prolonged steroid use, including delayed wound healing, cartilage degeneration, and the development of diabetes.
Using corticosteroids in conjunction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in cats significantly increases the risk of adverse effects such as gastrointestinal ulceration and kidney damage. Therefore, combining these medication types is generally avoided unless specifically directed and closely monitored by a veterinarian.
Other Medications Used for Pain Relief in Cats
Several medications initially developed for other purposes have been found to have beneficial pain-relieving properties in cats.
Neurontin (gabapentin)
Gabapentin, marketed under the brand name Neurontin and in generic forms, is a prescription medication originally developed to control seizures. It has since been found effective in managing post-operative pain and chronic pain conditions in cats, particularly neuropathic pain associated with osteoarthritis, cancer, and nerve injury or disease. Gabapentin is generally well-tolerated by cats, with minimal side effects.
Cerenia (maropitant)
Cerenia is a prescription medication primarily used to control vomiting in cats. However, it also possesses pain-relieving properties and is sometimes used in conjunction with anesthetics or other pain relievers, especially for visceral pain. Side effects can include fever, dehydration, lethargy, reduced appetite, blood in the urine, and drooling. Cerenia injections can be painful, so the oral form is often preferred for longer-term use.
Amantadine
Amantadine was initially developed as an antiviral drug. It is now used in veterinary medicine, often in combination with other pain medications, to manage chronic pain, especially neuropathic pain related to osteoarthritis, cancer, and nerve damage or disease. Potential side effects of amantadine can include gastrointestinal upset and unsteady movements.
Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline is a prescription antidepressant medication that is sometimes used to treat chronic pain in cats, particularly pain associated with nerve injury or disease. Side effects of amitriptyline can include lethargy, gastrointestinal upset, constipation, increased heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, difficulty urinating, and reduced saliva and tear production.
Joint Supplements for Chronic Pain Management in Cats
Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of chronic pain in cats. Managing arthritis effectively often requires a multi-modal approach, combining several treatment modalities for optimal results. Joint supplements can be safely used alongside pain medications and other arthritis therapies.
Here are some common and beneficial joint supplements for cats:
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin are widely available over-the-counter. They appear to be most effective when used together. Glucosamine and chondroitin work by limiting the breakdown of joint cartilage, promoting cartilage repair, enhancing the volume and quality of joint fluid, and reducing inflammation and pain.
Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycans)
Adequan and other polysulfated glycosaminoglycan products are prescription injectables. They function similarly to glucosamine and chondroitin in supporting joint health but may be more effective for some cats.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Nutritional supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids are readily available over-the-counter. Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to benefit cats with osteoarthritis by helping to prevent and resolve inflammation and by reducing the activity of enzymes that degrade cartilage.
Many joint supplements combine multiple beneficial ingredients. Other supplements with some scientific support for their use in cats include:
- Turmeric
- Duralactin (microlactin)
- Manganese ascorbate
- Avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU)
- Green-lipped mussels
- Hyaluronic acid
Non-Medication Ways to Comfort a Cat in Pain
Sometimes, the most effective approach to managing cat pain involves non-pharmaceutical methods, either alone or in combination with medications. Depending on your cat’s condition, the following strategies can be helpful:
- Weight Management: Weight loss in overweight cats reduces stress on joints and decreases the production of inflammatory hormones from fatty tissue, contributing to pain reduction.
- Environmental Modifications: Adapting your home environment to be more cat-friendly for a painful cat is crucial. Ensure easy access to essential resources. Keep food, water, comfortable heated beds, and low-sided litter boxes on easily accessible levels. Use ramps to help cats reach favorite elevated spots without jumping.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves stimulating specific points on the body, which can stimulate nerves and improve blood circulation, release natural pain-relieving endorphins, and alleviate muscle spasms.
- Therapeutic Laser Therapy: Laser therapy reduces inflammation and pain and promotes tissue healing by stimulating cellular activity.
- Physical Rehabilitation: Just like in humans, physical therapy can help cats maintain muscle strength and joint mobility and improve coordination, which is especially beneficial for arthritic cats.
- Emerging Therapies: Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving. Newer therapies like stem cell treatments, platelet-rich plasma, nerve growth factor inhibitors, and cannabidiol (CBD) are being investigated for pain management in cats, showing promising potential.
- Love and Attention: Providing extra love, gentle petting, and attention can significantly improve a cat’s emotional well-being and comfort. Engage your cat in activities they can comfortably participate in and offer a safe and supportive environment.
If you suspect your cat is experiencing pain, the most important step is to consult with your veterinarian. Accurate diagnosis is key to developing the most effective and safe pain management plan tailored to your cat’s specific needs.
Featured image: iStock.com/ChristopherBernard
