The Side Effects of Amitriptyline for Cats

Amitriptyline was originally used to treat anxiety in humans. Today it is also used as a pet medication. Veterinarians will prescribe amitriptyline to cats who are experiencing separation anxiety and urinary tract disease. It is also used to treat peculiar behaviors, like inappropriate urination and obsessive grooming. Cats may experience a range of side effects when taking amitriptyline.

  1. Drowsiness

    • Amitriptyline is a strong antihistamine, so it can cause cats to become very tired and drowsy. They may appear lethargic and excessively tired.

    Dry Mouth

    • Cats may experience dry mouth when they are on this particular medication. You can tell if you cat is experiencing this symptom because the cat will continuously lick its lips.

    Urinary Retention

    • Urinary retention is a more serious complication of amitriptyline. This side effect means the cat is unable to urinate or fully empty its bladder. If you notice your cat going into its litter box and nothing happens, make sure to let your veterinarian know. This is a symptom that can lead to kidney problems.

    Constipation

    • Amitriptyline can also cause constipation in cats. Keep an eye on your cat's bathroom habits, and let a vet know if you suspect constipation.

    Change in Weight and Appetite

    • This medication can cause cats to gain weight. Sometimes the weight gain is because the medicine makes the cat more hungry than usual.

    Excessive Salivation

    • While amitriptyline can cause dry mouth in some cats, it can cause excessive salivation in others. If you notice your cat suddenly drooling, it is because of the medication.

    Coma

    • If your cat is unable to wake up, you should immediately contact a veterinarian. A very serious possible side effect of amitriptyline is a coma. If your cat is able to wake up but falls back asleep immediately, do not worry. The antihistamine is likely to make the cat sleep more than usual.

    Rapid Heart Beat

    • Do not be alarmed if you suddenly notice that your cat's heart is beating at an abnormally fast pace. This is another side effect of amitriptyline and has nothing to do with heart failure. If the problem persists for longer than a couple of days, consult a veterinarian.

    Cold Limbs

    • Cats are usually very warm animals. Amitriptyline can change this, though, by causing a cat to have limbs that are cool or cold to the touch.

    Diarrhea

    • Amitriptyline causes some cats to be constipated, but other cats react to the medicine with sudden onsets of diarrhea. If the diarrhea does not clear up within a couple of days, or if you notice blood in the diarrhea, then consult a veterinarian.