Trazodone for Dogs and Cats: Uses, Dosage, and Safety

Trazodone, sold under brand names such as Oleptro® and Desyrel®, is a medication increasingly used in veterinary care to help manage anxiety and stress in pets. While originally developed as an antidepressant for humans, veterinarians now prescribe trazodone for dogs and cats as part of behavior modification plans.

Whether your dog becomes anxious during fireworks or your cat hides during vet visits, trazodone can offer relief. However, proper dosing and veterinary guidance are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

This guide covers everything pet parents need to know about trazodone for cats and dogs, as well as how to understand the trazodone dosage chart.

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone hydrochloride is classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It works by modifying serotonin levels in the brain—a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and anxiety. In humans, it's primarily prescribed for depression, insomnia, and withdrawal symptoms.

In pets, it's most often used to ease anxiety-related behaviors, such as:

• Separation anxiety
• Noise phobias (e.g., fireworks, thunderstorms)
• Stress from vet visits or travel
• Post-operative confinement anxiety
• Generalized anxiety or aggression

While trazodone is not FDA-approved for animals, it is commonly prescribed by veterinarians as an extra-label or off-label drug—a legal and routine practice in veterinary medicine.

Why Use Trazodone for Dogs?

Behavioral issues in dogs are one of the top reasons for vet visits and, unfortunately, pet surrenders or euthanasia. Anxiety, fear, and aggression can all interfere with a dog’s quality of life and their relationship with their human family.

That’s where trazodone for dogs comes in. It helps calm anxious dogs and can support training by making them more receptive to behavior modification techniques. Dogs prescribed trazodone often experience:

• Reduced fear and panic during stressful events
• Improved ability to rest and recover post-surgery
• Decreased reactivity to triggers like strangers or other pets

Veterinarians often use trazodone as part of a broader treatment plan, which may include training, other medications, and environmental management.

Trazodone for Cats: Is It Safe?

Although less commonly used, trazodone for cats is gaining traction in the veterinary world. Early studies suggest that it is generally safe and well-tolerated, especially for short-term use during stressful situations like:

• Veterinary appointments
• Car travel
• Hospitalization
• Boarding or grooming visits

Doses tend to be lower in cats, and because cats metabolize drugs differently than dogs, a veterinarian will carefully determine the correct amount based on body weight and overall health.

Common Formulations

Trazodone is currently only available in human formulations. It comes in tablet form, with typical strengths including:

• 50 mg
• 100 mg
• 150 mg
• 300 mg

Extended-release (ER) tablets are available in 150 mg and 300 mg strengths. However, ER versions are generally not recommended for pets, as they cannot be easily split or dosed appropriately.

Trazodone Dosage for Dogs

Trazodone dosage for dogs depends on several factors, including your dog’s weight, overall health, and the reason for the prescription. It’s often prescribed as a daily or situational medication.

General Trazodone Dosage Guidelines

A typical dose range is 2.5 to 15 mg per pound of body weight every 8 to 24 hours, with an average starting dose around 3.5 mg per pound. Lower doses are usually used if your dog is taking other medications for anxiety.

Doses may be adjusted upward after a few days, based on your dog’s response and tolerance.

100mg Trazodone for Dogs Dosage Chart

Note: This chart is a general guideline. Always follow your veterinarian’s exact dosage instructions.

Trazodone Dosage for Cats

In cats, trazodone is typically used as a short-term, situational medication for anxiety. Reported doses range from 50 to 100 mg, often given 1–2 hours before a stressful event.

It’s important to monitor your cat closely after dosing, as side effects like lethargy or gastrointestinal upset can occur. Never give trazodone to your cat without veterinary approval.

How to Give Trazodone

Trazodone can be given with or without food. If your pet experiences nausea or vomiting, try giving it with a small meal or treat.

Tablets may be split to accommodate smaller doses. If your dog or cat refuses pills, talk to your vet about compounding pharmacies that can prepare flavored or liquid versions.

Potential Side Effects

Trazodone is generally well-tolerated by dogs and cats. However, like any medication, side effects are possible.

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Panting
• Lethargy
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Hyperactivity or restlessness
• Increased appetite

Most side effects are mild and improve within a few days. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your veterinarian.

Serious Reactions (Rare):

• Seizures
• Coma (in cases of overdose)
• Priapism (prolonged erection) in male dogs
• Serotonin syndrome (especially if combined with other serotonergic drugs)

Pets with liver, kidney, or heart disease—or those on medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), diuretics, or anti-inflammatories—may be at higher risk for complications. Always disclose your pet’s full medical history and current medications to your veterinarian.

What to Do in Case of Overdose

Trazodone overdose can lead to serious side effects such as:

• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Loss of coordination
• Extreme lethargy or unconsciousness

If you suspect your pet has ingested too much trazodone (or any medication), contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately.

Tips for Safe Use

• Follow dosage instructions carefully – Never adjust the dose without veterinary approval.
• Store medication safely – Keep all prescriptions out of reach of pets and children.
• Don’t stop abruptly – If your pet has been on trazodone long-term, tapering off slowly may be necessary.
• Use with a behavior plan – Medication is most effective when combined with training and environmental changes.

Always Consult Your Vet

Trazodone can be a safe, effective tool for managing stress and anxiety in pets when used responsibly. Whether it’s calming a nervous dog before a vet visit or helping a cat through a stressful car ride, this medication has improved the lives of countless pets and their families.

But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Always work closely with your veterinarian to determine the right treatment plan, including dosage, timing, and any necessary monitoring.

For pet owners interested in understanding the trazodone dosage chart or learning more about trazodone for pets, this guide is a great starting point—but your vet remains your most important resource.