Recognizing and effectively managing pain in cats presents unique challenges for pet owners. Cats are masters at concealing discomfort, a trait that can delay necessary treatment. Furthermore, many pain medications safe for humans or dogs are either ineffective or dangerously toxic to felines. However, with careful observation and veterinary guidance, it is possible to alleviate your cat’s suffering and improve their quality of life. This guide explores what can be given to cats for pain and, crucially, what should be avoided.
The Dangers of Human Pain Medications for Cats
It is imperative never to administer human pain medication to your cat without explicit veterinary instruction. Accidental ingestion of over-the-counter pain relievers designed for humans can have severe, even fatal, consequences for cats. For instance, acetaminophen (found in Tylenol) can cause significant damage to a cat’s red blood cells and liver, even in small amounts. Similarly, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), as well as aspirin, can lead to serious health issues including gastrointestinal ulcers, liver and kidney damage, and impaired blood clotting in cats. While veterinarians may occasionally prescribe these medications under strict, specific circumstances and at very low doses (e.g., aspirin for cats with clot risks), self-administration is extremely hazardous.
Safe and Effective Pain Relief Options for Cats
The appropriate pain relief for a cat is highly individualized, depending on the nature and severity of their pain, as well as their overall health. A veterinarian will assess these factors to create a tailored and safe treatment plan. If you suspect you have accidentally given your cat more medication than prescribed, contact your veterinarian or Animal Poison Control immediately at 1-888-426-4435.
Prescription Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs) for Cats
Unlike their over-the-counter counterparts, certain prescription NSAIDs are formulated for feline use. These medications work by selectively inhibiting enzymes responsible for inflammation and pain, while preserving essential bodily functions. They are generally safer for feline kidneys, promote normal blood clotting, and offer better protection against stomach ulcers compared to human NSAIDs.
- Onsior (robenacoxib): Approved for short-term pain and inflammation relief following surgery (up to three days), Onsior may also be prescribed off-label for chronic pain conditions like osteoarthritis or cancer. Potential side effects include lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. More severe risks, though less common, include gastrointestinal ulceration, liver and kidney damage, and bleeding disorders, particularly with excessive dosages.
- Metacam (meloxicam): Available by prescription, Metacam’s injectable form is FDA-approved for post-operative pain in cats. The oral form is sometimes used off-label for chronic pain from conditions such as osteoarthritis or cancer. While prolonged use can lead to kidney damage, low doses have been used safely in cats outside the United States for many years.
Opioids for Moderate to Severe Pain
When NSAIDs are insufficient or inappropriate, veterinarians often turn to opioids for moderate to severe pain management. These can be naturally derived or synthetic and work by blocking pain receptors in the nervous system. Due to their potential for abuse in humans, opioids are controlled substances.
- Buprenorphine: Used for both short-term (post-injury/surgery) and long-term pain relief (osteoarthritis, cancer), buprenorphine can be administered via injection or absorbed through oral mucous membranes. It is generally very safe but can cause pupil dilation or constriction, euphoria or lethargy, elevated body temperature, vomiting, defecation, and slowed breathing.
- Tramadol: This prescription medication is suitable for acute or chronic pain. Due to its bitter taste, it’s often compounded into a palatable liquid form for long-term use. Tramadol can lead to pupil changes, lethargy, unusual behaviors, gastrointestinal upset, constipation, and seizures.
- Duragesic (fentanyl patch): Fentanyl patches provide several days of relief for moderate to severe pain, often following surgery or injury. Applied to shaved skin, the patch is typically effective for about five days in cats. Side effects are similar to buprenorphine and include pupil changes, mood alterations, increased body temperature, vomiting, defecation, and slowed breathing.
Other opioids like butorphanol, morphine, and hydromorphone may also be prescribed depending on the specific clinical situation.
Steroids for Inflammation
Corticosteroids, such as prednisolone and methylprednisolone, are potent anti-inflammatories that can indirectly reduce pain. However, they are not typically used as a primary pain reliever due to potential side effects, including delayed healing, cartilage damage, and the increased risk of developing diabetes. Concurrent use of corticosteroids and NSAIDs significantly heightens the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and kidney damage.
Other Medications for Pain Management
Several medications originally developed for other conditions have proven effective for pain relief in cats:
- Neurontin (gabapentin): Originally an anti-seizure medication, gabapentin is now widely used for post-operative and chronic pain, including that associated with osteoarthritis, cancer, and nerve conditions. It generally has minimal side effects.
- Cerenia (maropitant): While primarily an anti-vomiting medication, Cerenia can also alleviate pain, often used in conjunction with anesthetics or other analgesics. Potential side effects include fever, dehydration, lethargy, poor appetite, and drooling. Injectable forms can be painful, making oral administration preferable for long-term treatment.
- Amantadine: Initially an antiviral, amantadine is now used alongside other medications to manage chronic pain stemming from osteoarthritis, cancer, or nerve issues. Gastrointestinal upset and unsteadiness are possible side effects.
- Amitriptyline: This prescription antidepressant is sometimes employed to treat chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain. Side effects may include lethargy, gastrointestinal upset, constipation, increased heart rate, arrhythmias, difficulty urinating, and dry eyes or mouth.
Joint Supplements for Feline Arthritis Pain
Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of chronic pain in cats. A multi-modal therapeutic approach, combining various treatments, is often the most effective strategy. Joint supplements can be safely used alongside pain relievers and other therapies.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Widely available over-the-counter, these supplements appear most effective when used together. They help limit cartilage breakdown, support repair, increase joint fluid, and reduce inflammation and pain.
- Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycans): This prescription injectable supplement works similarly to glucosamine and chondroitin but may be more effective for some cats.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in many over-the-counter supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are believed to reduce inflammation and inhibit cartilage-degrading enzymes, benefiting cats with osteoarthritis.
Other supplements with some evidence of efficacy include turmeric, Duralactin, manganese ascorbate, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), green-lipped mussels, and hyaluronic acid.
Comforting a Cat in Pain Without Medication
Non-medicinal approaches can significantly contribute to a cat’s comfort:
- Weight Management: Excess weight stresses the body and increases inflammatory hormones.
- Home Modifications: Create an accessible environment by keeping food, water, litter boxes, and comfortable resting spots on one level. Use ramps to help cats reach elevated perches.
- Acupuncture: Stimulates nerves and circulation, releasing natural pain relief and easing muscle spasms.
- Therapeutic Laser Treatment: Reduces inflammation and pain while promoting healing.
- Physical Rehabilitation: Strengthens muscles and joints, improving coordination.
- Emerging Therapies: Stem cell treatments, platelet-rich plasma, nerve growth factor inhibitors, and cannabidiol (CBD) are areas of ongoing research.
- Affection and Attention: Engage your cat in comfortable daily activities and provide ample love and attention.
If you suspect your cat is experiencing pain, consult your veterinarian. They can diagnose the underlying cause and develop the most effective treatment plan tailored to your cat’s individual needs.
Featured image: iStock.com/ChristopherBernard
