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

If your pet suffers from anxiety, fear-based behaviors, or phobias like thunderstorm panic, your veterinarian may recommend a medication like Alprazolam — more commonly recognized by the brand name Xanax®. While originally developed for use in humans, Xanax for dogs and cats is often prescribed by veterinarians for short-term anxiety management.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Alprazolam for dogs and cats, including its uses, safety, and a general Xanax dosing chart for dogs by weight.

What Is Alprazolam (Xanax)?

Alprazolam is a prescription medication classified as a benzodiazepine tranquilizer. It is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and related conditions in humans. In veterinary medicine, it’s prescribed off-label to manage anxiety, noise phobias, separation anxiety, and situational stress in pets.

Although Alprazolam is not FDA-approved for use in animals, veterinarians may legally prescribe it under the extra-label drug use allowance, provided they follow specific guidelines.

Why Is Alprazolam Used for Dogs and Cats?

Behavioral problems are a leading cause of veterinary visits and a frequent reason for pet relinquishment or even euthanasia. As interest in animal behavior and mental health grows, many veterinarians now incorporate medications like Alprazolam into treatment plans alongside behavior modification and training.

Common Uses of Xanax for Dogs

• Storm or noise phobias
• Separation anxiety
• Travel anxiety (e.g., car rides)
• Veterinary visit fear
• Generalized anxiety
• Muscle relaxation and mild sedation

Common Uses of Xanax for Cats

• Situational anxiety (e.g., vet visits, travel)
• Fear-based aggression
• Appetite stimulation
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (in some cases)
• Muscle spasms or seizures (rare use)

Because Xanax for cats and dogs has calming and muscle-relaxing effects, it may also be prescribed in combination with other therapies for various behavioral or neurological concerns.

How Xanax Works

Alprazolam works by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps reduce nerve activity. This effect promotes a calming, anti-anxiety response.

Xanax Dosage for Dogs and Cats

Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions when giving Alprazolam to your pet. Dosage varies based on weight, condition, and individual response to the drug.

General Xanax Dosage for Dogs

• Typical dose: 0.01 to 0.05 mg per pound of body weight (or 0.02 to 0.1 mg/kg)
• Frequency: Every 8 to 12 hours as needed
• Form: Oral tablet or liquid solution

Xanax Dosing Chart for Dogs by Weight

Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the right Xanax dosage for dogs.

Alprazolam Dosage for Cats

• Typical dose: 0.125 to 0.25 mg per cat
• Frequency: Every 8 to 12 hours as needed
• Form: Oral tablet or compounded liquid

Because cats are more sensitive to benzodiazepines, it's essential to start at the lower end of the dosing range and monitor for side effects.

How Alprazolam Is Supplied

Alprazolam is available in various human formulations:

• Tablets: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg
• Liquid solution: 0.5 mg/5 mL or 1 mg/mL

There are no veterinary-specific formulations, so prescriptions are typically filled through human pharmacies or compounded by veterinary pharmacies into pet-friendly forms.

Side Effects and Precautions

While Xanax for dogs and cats is generally considered safe when prescribed appropriately, side effects can occur — especially if the dose is too high or combined with other sedatives.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Unsteadiness or poor coordination
• Increased appetite
• Disinhibition (e.g., hyperactivity or aggression in rare cases)

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Paradoxical excitement (especially in cats or young dogs)
• Aggression or unusual behavior changes
• Liver function issues (especially with long-term use)
• Withdrawal symptoms if abruptly discontinued after extended use

When NOT to Use Alprazolam

Avoid use in pets with:

• Allergies to benzodiazepines
• Glaucoma
• Severe liver disease
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Pregnancy or nursing (unless directed by a vet)

Alprazolam may interact with other medications such as:

• Other central nervous system depressants
• Digoxin
• Phenytoin
• Theophylline

Always provide your vet with a full list of medications and supplements your pet is taking.

Is Xanax Addictive for Pets?

Prolonged use can lead to physical dependence, meaning your pet may experience withdrawal symptoms or behavior changes if the medication is stopped suddenly. If long-term treatment is required, your veterinarian will guide you through a safe tapering plan.

Tips for Giving Xanax to Pets

• Administer at least 30–60 minutes before the anxiety-inducing event (like a storm or vet visit).
• Give on an empty stomach for faster absorption (unless your pet has a sensitive stomach).
• Use a pill pocket or flavored treat to make administration easier.
• Never give human-prescribed Xanax without veterinary guidance — even small dosing errors can be harmful.

Always Consult Your Vet

Alprazolam for dogs and cats can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety and stress-related behaviors when used correctly. While it is not a cure-all, it can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life — especially when combined with behavioral therapy and environmental management.

If you're considering Xanax for dogs, consult your veterinarian to determine if it’s the right option for your pet and what the correct dosage for Xanax for dogs would be. The same goes for Xanax for cats, where precise dosing is even more critical due to their heightened sensitivity.

For pet parents concerned about the cost of prescription anxiety medications, pet insurance may help cover part of the expenses. Explore your options to see what coverage is available for behavioral health and medication support.