The Benefits of Feline Prozac

Prozac is a prescription medication that can used to modify undesirable cat behavior. Even though this drug is FDA-approved for human use, veterinarians can legally prescribe it. Prozac adjusts serotonin levels in the brain, which are responsible for the undesirable behavior. Instead of giving your cat away, or putting him down, this medicine can help correct his behavior and improve the quality of his life.

  1. Prozac to Combat Depression

    • Prozac can be used to help combat depression in cats. Just like people, cats can suffer from depression. It can be triggered by everything from the death of another pet in the household to moving into a new home. Cat owners will recognize that their pet companion appears lethargic and has a lack of interest in food. He may hide or sleep a lot, refuse to play and refrain from grooming himself.

    Prozac to Treat Anxiety Problems

    • Prozac can be used as an anti-anxiety medication. If your cat displays distressful behavior, such as constant vocalization, aggression, urination and destructiveness, it may be a sign that he's suffering from anxiety. Anxiety can be triggered by various factors. Your cat may suffer from separation anxiety when you leave the house, or maybe he's had a traumatic past experience. Prozac, combined with behavioral conditioning, can help to calm your cat down.

    Prozac for Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior

    • When your cat is stressed or frustrated, he may not be able to resist the urge to repetitively perform a certain behavior. This condition, known as obsessive-compulsive behavior, interferes with your cat's normal functioning. Activities, such as eating, moving around and grooming, are performed in the wrong context and can affect your cat's health and quality of life. Obsessive-compulsive behavior can become more tolerable with the use of Prozac and behavior modification. Adjusting your cat's environment may also help.

    Prozac to Treat Aggression

    • If your cat displays aggressive behavior toward people or other animals he can benefit from Prozac. The medication will alter your cat's mood and make him less susceptible to aggression. Aggression in cats can result in biting, scratching or hissing. It can be triggered by everything from certain sounds to seeing and smelling other cats. After examining your cat and excluding medical conditions that may trigger aggression, your veterinarian can prescribe Prozac.