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Fluoxetine for Dogs & Cats

Fluoxetine for Dogs & Cats

What is it used for? | How does it work? |  How is it given? | Dosage | Safety considerations | Possible drug interactions | Final thoughts

Updated on February 03, 2023
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Reviewed by Dr. Whitney Miller
DVM, MBA, DACVPM
brown dog

Have you been noticing signs of cat anxiety, such as unexplained aggression or excessive grooming? Or perhaps you’re wondering whether your pup needs something more than the dog calming supplements that helped soothe their separation anxiety in the past. If your beloved companion seems to be dealing with stress and anxiety that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments or lifestyle changes, it might be time to look into fluoxetine.

Fluoxetine for pets works in basically the same way as it does for humans. Fluoxetine—also known by brand names such as Prozac—is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. It helps to keep serotonin circulating in the brain, enhancing feelings of wellbeing. Fluoxetine for cats and dogs is used to treat anxiety, compulsive disorders and some associated behavioral problems—for instance, dogs chewing on furniture or cats vomiting throughout the house. Read on to find out more about fluoxetine and how it might help your pets.

Fruit Quicktiles:

What is fluoxetine used for?

Fluoxetine for pets is used to help manage anxiety and the behavioral issues that can accompany it. For instance, an anxious dog may resort to pacing, barking or chewing on inappropriate items. An anxious cat might groom themselves too much—sometimes to the point of losing fur or developing sores—or engage in urine marking around your home. Fluoxetine for dogs and cats works by helping to reduce the anxiety—including separation anxiety—that leads to destructive behavior, which is not only beneficial for your pet’s emotional wellbeing but also for the way they interact with their surroundings. In fact, fluoxetine is known to be so effective that it is even given to birds, horses and other animal species. 

How does fluoxetine work?

Fluoxetine helps control the flow of serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain. When more of this neurotransmitter is circulating in the brain, feelings of happiness and wellbeing increase. When it is reabsorbed by the brain too quickly, feelings of anxiety, depression or foreboding can increase. Fluoxetine works by preventing quick reabsorption of serotonin, leaving this “happy chemical” floating around the brain and elevating our mood. Cats and dogs have the same serotonin neurotransmitter we do, which is why fluoxetine veterinary use is so effective.

It’s important to note that fluoxetine for pets is most effective when combined with behavior modification and other interventions to ease stress and anxiety. If your pet has developed unwanted habits due to anxiety, it may be necessary to revisit some training activities. Remember to rely on positive reinforcement. Not only is it humane, it’s effective. Shame and punishment will only increase the anxiety that led to these behaviors in the first place.

How is fluoxetine given?

A fluoxetine dosage for dogs and cats is commonly administered by tablet, capsule or oral solution—though a compounding pharmacy can turn fluoxetine into other dosage forms. If you have concerns about getting your pet to take this medicine, talk to your veterinarian about the best way to deliver the fluoxetine dosage. When in doubt, remember that many pet parents have the best success when they give medication hidden in a treat. If you ever miss a dose, give it to your pet as soon as you remember. If a full 24 hours has gone by and it’s time for the next dose, just give one dose—don’t double up.

Since fluoxetine for pets is a prescription drug, you’ll need authorization from a vet and a trusted pharmacy, such as Petco’s pet pharmacy. Common brand names for fluoxetine include Prozac, Sarafem and Reconcile, though it can also be purchased in its generic form.

Fluoxetine dosage

The exact fluoxetine dose for dogs and cats varies based on a pet’s size, species, breed, age, overall health and specific symptoms, among other variables. A veterinarian prescribes the right fluoxetine dosage for cats and dogs based on an individual pet’s needs. Even if you already have fluoxetine at home that’s being used to treat anxiety in another animal or human in the household, do not give it to your pet—wait for a veterinary consultation and a new prescription. There are too many factors that must be considered before a proper dose can be determined.

Once you have your pet’s carefully calibrated fluoxetine prescription, follow the instructions on the label closely. Remember that even when directions are followed meticulously, you may not see the full effects of fluoxetine for pets until after four to eight weeks of continuous use—don’t be discouraged if nothing changes right away.

Safety considerations

As with any medication, fluoxetine may cause side effects—pay attention to your pet’s activities and share any concerning personality or behavioral changes with your veterinarian. Fluoxetine for dogs side effects may include lethargy, depression, seizures, changes in blood sugar, bleeding and loss of appetite and weight. Cats may experience all of these symptoms as well, but an additional fluoxetine for cats side effect can be constipation or difficulty urinating. In rare cases, fluoxetine may make some dogs or cats more aggressive. Fluoxetine should be used with caution if your pet has diabetes, seizures, kidney disease or a bleeding disorder.

If your pet needs to stop taking fluoxetine after eight or more weeks of use, they should be weaned off the drug slowly. Stopping abruptly can cause agitation, worsened anxiety and an increase in behavioral problems. Speak with your veterinarian about the correct course of action if you believe your pet should stop taking fluoxetine.

Possible drug interactions

Fluoxetine for pets should not be given to animals who are already taking medicines that affect serotonin levels, including selegiline, amitraz, buspirone, tramadol, clomipramine, amitriptyline, tryptophan or trazodone. Combining these medications could cause a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome, side effects of which include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, breathing problems, an abnormally high temperature, muscle tremors and restlessness. If you’d like to switch your pet to fluoxetine after using another medication that affects serotonin levels, allow for a two-week “washout” period to avoid serotonin syndrome. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing fluoxetine for pets, as other drugs not already mentioned may interact with fluoxetine. Keep your vet aware of all medications and supplements your pet takes, including other cat or dog calming aids you may be using.

Pet prescriptions available to order at Petco

Final thoughts

Fluoxetine for cats and dogs can be greatly beneficial in reducing anxiety and associated behavioral issues, but make sure to use it correctly under a veterinarian’s supervision. Keep fluoxetine out of reach of pets and children and be sure to store it according to label instructions. Talk to your vet if you have any questions or concerns about fluoxetine for pets.

FAQs about fluoxetine

Will fluoxetine change my dog’s personality?

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In some rare instances, fluoxetine for dogs side effects can include negative behavioral changes such as increased aggression, depression or lethargy. However, in many cases, fluoxetine for dogs has a significant positive impact on personality. If your dog has been acting scared, nervous, upset or on edge as a result of anxiety, fluoxetine may help improve their mood and curtail destructive behaviors.

How long does it take for fluoxetine to work in dogs?

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Fluoxetine may need up to 4 to 8 weeks to take full effect in your dog. It is typically used for long-term management of anxiety, rather than as a quick fix. If you need something to reduce your dog’s nervousness in the short term for situational anxiety, such as pet travel preparation, calming aids of a more mild or fast-acting nature may be preferable to fluoxetine for dogs.

What time of day should Prozac (fluoxetine) be taken?

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Your veterinarian can help you decide what time of day Prozac (fluoxetine) for cats or dogs should be taken, but it may be beneficial to administer this medication with your pet’s evening meal, as it may make your pet sleepy and some pets get upset tummies if they don’t take medicine with food. And as many pet parents know, it can be a lot easier to give a pet medication when it’s followed by a treat.

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