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Gabapentin reduces stress and does not affect ocular parameters in clinically normal cats
Yvette C Crowe1, Allyson D Groth1, Francis M Billson1
1Small Animal Specialist Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Veterinary Ophthalmology
|August 25, 2022
Summary
Gabapentin effectively reduces stress and increases sedation in cats within 1.5 hours of administration. This study found no significant impact on ocular parameters or heart rate in healthy felines.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pharmacology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Gabapentin is frequently used for pain management in cats.
- Its effects on ocular and behavioral parameters require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of oral gabapentin on ocular and behavioral indicators in healthy cats.
- To assess gabapentin's safety and efficacy in a feline model.
Main Methods:
- A masked, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover study involving ten healthy cats.
- Administration of 100 mg gabapentin or placebo, with measurements of respiratory rate, heart rate, stress, sedation, compliance, pupil diameter, intraocular pressure, and tear production.
Main Results:
- Gabapentin significantly reduced respiratory rate and stress scores at 1.5 and 3 hours post-administration.
- A significant increase in sedation score was observed at 1.5 and 3 hours.
- No significant changes were noted in heart rate, compliance, pupil diameter, intraocular pressure, or tear production.
Conclusions:
- Gabapentin demonstrates efficacy in reducing stress and inducing sedation in cats.
- The drug appears safe concerning measured ocular parameters and heart rate in healthy felines.
