Using mirtazapine as an appetite stimulant in cats

Understanding and Administering Appetite Stimulants for Cats

We might prescribe an appetite stimulant if your cat is showing mild signs of inappetence.

These medications are typically employed for cats back in their home environment, providing a bit of extra support to help them return to normal eating amounts. Keep in mind that these drugs aren't very useful for extremely unwell cats, where alternative measures like feeding tube placement may be necessary.

However, they can be incredibly helpful for cats needing a little extra boost to improve their appetite. The primary drug we use is a tricyclic antidepressant called mirtazapine. It's a human drug adapted for use in cats, available in either tablet form or a specifically compounded transdermal ointment.

For the transdermal ointment, it's crucial to wear gloves to avoid inadvertent absorption. Wipe the inside of your cat's ear with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or earwax. Apply the recommended dosage from the labelled syringe onto your finger, then rub it onto the inside of your cat's ear. This is typically a once-daily medication, alternating ears each day.

After applying the medication, wash your hands while still wearing gloves to eliminate any residual drug. Dispose of the gloves in the rubbish bin. If there's excess medication after approximately 60 minutes, you can wipe it off with gloves on. Most cats tolerate this process well, and side effects are minimal, often involving temporary agitation or vocalisation.

If your cat has been on mirtazapine for an extended period, it's important not to stop the medication suddenly. Ideally, gradually reduce the dosage over one to two weeks before discontinuing it. For any questions, feel free to contact us for more information on these medications.