Trazodone is used in dogs for anxiety-related conditions, including firework and thunderstorm phobias, separation anxiety, and to minimize activity after surgeries
. The drug can be given with food or on an empty stomach and might take up to two weeks to achieve a calming effect, especially when used alone.
How do dogs act on trazodone?
In 104 dogs experiencing adverse effects,
sedation and lethargy
were reported in 43% of the dogs. Ataxia was reported in 16% and vomiting in 14%. Overall, lethargy, sedation, depression, somnolence, and subdued behavior are considered common signs of trazodone exposure.
Will trazodone sedate a dog?
Trazodone provides mild sedation
and decreases anxiety in dogs. This medication normalizes levels of serotonin within the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter (a chemical used by nerve cells to send signals to each other) that promotes a sense of well-being.
How long does trazodone for Dogs take to kick in?
This medication will take effect quickly, in about
1 to 2 hours
, when used for short-term stress relief, but for long-term treatment, this medication can take a few weeks before full effects are observed.
Can I give my dog 100mg of trazodone?
100mg would be too high of a dose but would likely not cause significant problems
. A dog with too high of a dose of Trazodone may exhibit sedation, lethargy and incoordination when walking. I hope this helps answer your question.
Is 100mg of trazodone safe for dogs?
The recommended dose of Trazodone for dogs is between 2.5 mg and 3.5 mg per pound of body weight (or 2-5 mg per kg). Depending on the situation and the individual needs,
some dogs can be given up to 15 mg of Trazodone per pound every 24 hours
.
Is 300 mg of Trazodone too much for a dog?
Target dosing for dogs less than 22 pounds is a total dose of 50 mg every 8 to 24 hours, dogs 22 to 44 pounds the total dose of 100 mg every 8 to 24 hours, dogs 44 to 88 pounds may be prescribed 200 mg every 8 to 24 and
dogs over 88 pounds may be prescribed a total dose of 200 – 300 mg every 8 to 24 hours
.
How often can you give dog Trazodone?
Trazodone is given
every 8 hours
and as needed based on the dog’s weight and response.
When should you give your dog Trazodone before going to the vet?
When Trazodone is used on a daily basis, it is initially started at a lower dose for every 12 hours. When used before appointments, it is given
2 hours
before you travel to the vet hospital.
Is 50mg of trazodone a lot?
Trazodone Dosage for Sleep
When prescribed for sleep, trazodone can be taken as a 50 mg to 100 mg dose at bedtime
. If needed, the dose can be increased to up to 200 mg at bedtime to help with sleep. Those with both depression and sleep problems may need a higher dose in some cases — up to 300 mg at bedtime.
How much trazodone can you give a 20 pound dog?
Trazodone Dosage for Dogs
However, vets recommend a dosage between 12mg and 15mg for every pound of dog weight within 24 hours. For example, a dog that weighs 20 pounds will need
50-300mg of trazodone per day
.
How long does 100mg of trazodone last for dogs?
Usually, the clinical signs last
10 to 12 hours
, but in some cases, they might last for more than 24 hours. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to trazodone, contact your vet right away. If they’re not available, contact an emergency facility.
How do you counteract trazodone for dogs?
IV fluids
are typically recommended for a case of trazodone toxicosis. Treatment is largely symptomatic and supportive. Diazepam is indicated for tremors and seizures. Cyproheptadine can be administered for serotonin syndrome.
Can you give a dog too much trazodone?
Doses over 250 mg per pound can be fatal
. Some dogs can be much more sensitive to Trazodone than other dogs and lower doses can cause severe side effects in death in some dogs. If your dog ingests Trazodone®, call your veterinarian for recommendations.
