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Using Mirtazapine as an Appetite Stimulant in Cats
Using appetite stimulants for your cat: What you need to know
If your cat shows mild inappetence (a reduced appetite), your vet may prescribe an appetite stimulant. These medications are particularly helpful for cats recovering at home, providing them with the extra support they need to start eating normally again.
However, it’s important to note that appetite stimulants aren’t effective for extremely ill cats. In those cases, more advanced interventions, like a feeding tube, might be necessary. But for cats who just need a little boost to regain their appetite, these stimulants can be pretty effective.
What appetite stimulant do we use?
The most common appetite stimulant we prescribe is mirtazapine, a tricyclic antidepressant originally developed for humans but safely adapted for cats.
Mirtazapine is available in two forms: Tablet form, which can be given orally.
Transdermal ointment, specifically compounded for application on the inside of your cat’s ear. The transdermal ointment is a great option for cats who aren’t easy to give pills to. However, applying it correctly is crucial for your cat’s and your safety.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying transdermal ointment:
1. Wear gloves: Always wear gloves when handling the ointment to prevent absorbing the medication yourself.
2. Clean the ear: Before applying the ointment, gently clean the inside of your cat’s ear with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or earwax.
3. Apply the ointment: Measure the recommended dosage using the labelled syringe. Apply the ointment to your finger (still wearing gloves), then rub it onto the inside of your cat’s ear.
4. Alternate ears: The ointment is typically applied once daily, and it’s important to alternate ears daily to avoid irritation.
5. Clean up safely: After applying the medication, wash your hands while wearing gloves to remove any residual drug. Then, dispose of the gloves in the rubbish bin immediately.
If there’s any excess medication after about 60 minutes, you can wipe it off with a fresh pair of gloves.
What to expect after application
Most cats tolerate the process well, and side effects are usually minimal.
Occasionally, some cats might experience temporary agitation or increased vocalisation after applying the medication, but these effects tend to subside quickly.
If your cat has been on mirtazapine for an extended period, it’s important not to stop the medication suddenly.
Ideally, the dosage should be tapered off gradually over one to two weeks. This helps avoid any sudden changes that could affect your cat’s health.
“Feeding tubes may be needed for cats that are extremely unwell.”
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are appetite stimulants for cats?
Appetite stimulants are medications that help encourage cats to eat. They are sometimes prescribed when a cat has reduced appetite during illness or recovery.
What appetite stimulant is commonly used in cats?
One commonly prescribed appetite stimulant is mirtazapine. This medication was originally developed for humans but has been adapted for veterinary use.
Do appetite stimulants work for all cats?
Appetite stimulants may help cats who need encouragement to eat. However, cats that are extremely ill may require other interventions such as feeding tubes.
Why might a cat lose its appetite?
Cats can lose interest in food for many reasons, including illness, stress or recovery from medical treatment. A veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause.
When should I speak to a veterinarian about appetite loss?
If your cat stops eating or eats significantly less than usual, it is best to consult your veterinarian. Early assessment can help identify the reason and guide treatment.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Popeye coughs up the culprit
Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.
Key Takeaways
Appetite stimulants may help cats who have reduced interest in food.
These medications are typically used when cats need support regaining their appetite.
Mirtazapine is one of the most commonly prescribed appetite stimulants for cats.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
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Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed