Owner's Perspective About the Use of Mirtazapine Transdermal Ointment in Cats-A Survey-Based Study

Mirtazapine is an antidepressant used as an appetite stimulant in cats. This study aims to assess owner perspectives on the use of transdermal mirtazapine in cats. A multicentric survey-based study was conducted. A survey of 15 questions about efficacy, side effects, and overall perception was sent to owners of cats that had received the treatment between January 2021 and March 2023 in two European veterinary hospitals. From 108 contacted owners, 70 responses were obtained. Application to the ear was considered easy by 97% of respondents, and 91% followed the manufacturers' instructions for alternating ears. Side effects were reported by 20%, most often increased vocalization, redness, or restlessness. Chronic kidney disease was the most common reason for prescription. Nine owners had previously used the oral form, and most of them found the transdermal option easier, although some preferred the oral version due to lower cost. Overall, 77% of owners considered the treatment effective in stimulating appetite. Regarding length of therapy, about half administered it for less than 14 days, while the rest followed the labeled duration, with longer use associated with more consistent appetite improvement. These findings highlight that transdermal mirtazapine is generally well accepted by owners, easy to administer, and effective in promoting appetite in cats.