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PetDosageChart

Simbadol (Buprenorphine) Dosage for Cats

Partial opioid agonist ⏱ Onset: 15-30 minutes (transmucosal), 5-15 minutes (injectable) ⏳ Duration: 6-12 hours (standard), up to 24 hours (Simbadol)

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

Content reviewed by licensed veterinarians. This information is sourced from veterinary drug references including Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook and the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Dosage Calculator

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Simbadol Dosage Chart for Cats by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
3 lbs (1.4 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
4 lbs (1.8 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
6 lbs (2.7 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
7 lbs (3.2 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
8 lbs (3.6 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
9 lbs (4.1 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
12 lbs (5.4 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
14 lbs (6.3 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
16 lbs (7.3 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
18 lbs (8.2 kg) 0mg 0mg 0mg every 6-12 hours
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 0mg 0mg 0.5mg every 6-12 hours
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 0mg 0mg 0.5mg every 6-12 hours

What is Simbadol (Buprenorphine) used for in cats?

moderate pain relief post-surgical pain oral pain trauma pain management

How to give Simbadol to your cat

Buprenorphine is uniquely well-suited for cats because it can be absorbed through the oral mucosa (inside the cheek). For transmucosal dosing, use a syringe to squirt the liquid between the cheek and gum — do NOT let the cat swallow it immediately, as oral absorption through the gut is poor. Hold the head gently and let it absorb for 1-2 minutes. Simbadol is a concentrated injectable given by your vet that provides up to 24 hours of pain relief.

Available Forms

injectable, transmucosal (oral mucosal)

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Simbadol in cats

Common side effects

sedation
dilated pupils
euphoria or purring
mild decrease in appetite

Serious side effects

  • respiratory depression
  • severe sedation or unresponsiveness
  • hypothermia
  • bradycardia (slow heart rate)

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your cat shows any of these signs:

  • Very slow or shallow breathing
  • Extreme sedation or inability to rouse your cat
  • Collapse or inability to stand
  • Persistent vomiting
  • No pain improvement or worsening signs of pain

Related Medications for Cats

Opioid Analgesic (Atypical)

Ultram

Tramadol

For Moderate to severe pain management

View dosage chart
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Onsior

Robenacoxib

For post-surgical pain

View dosage chart
Anticonvulsant / Analgesic

Neurontin

Gabapentin

For pain management

View dosage chart
Antihistamine

Benadryl

Diphenhydramine

For allergies

View dosage chart

Sources & References

The dosage information on this page is compiled from the following veterinary and pharmaceutical references:

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook — the standard veterinary pharmacology reference used by veterinarians worldwide.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — a trusted, peer-reviewed resource for veterinary professionals and pet owners.
  • DailyMed (FDA Drug Labels) — official FDA-approved drug labeling and prescribing information for Buprenorphine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is buprenorphine considered the best pain medication for cats?
Buprenorphine is widely regarded as the gold standard for moderate pain in cats because of its excellent transmucosal absorption (squirted inside the cheek), long duration of action, wide safety margin, and the calm sedation it produces. Cats tolerate it much better than many other opioids, which can cause excitation in felines.
Can I give buprenorphine to my cat at home?
Yes, veterinarians often prescribe buprenorphine for at-home transmucosal administration after surgery or dental procedures. You will receive a small syringe of liquid to squirt inside your cat's cheek. It is a controlled substance, so it must be prescribed and dispensed by a veterinarian.
How long does buprenorphine last in cats?
Standard buprenorphine provides pain relief for 6-12 hours in cats. Simbadol, a concentrated sustained-release formulation, can provide pain relief for up to 24 hours from a single injection given by your veterinarian.
Does buprenorphine make cats act strange?
Buprenorphine commonly causes mild sedation, dilated pupils, and sometimes euphoria (purring, kneading). These effects are normal and expected. Some cats may seem "spaced out" or unusually affectionate. These effects are temporary and generally resolve as the drug wears off.
Is buprenorphine safe for older cats?
Yes, buprenorphine is considered safe for senior cats and is commonly used for pain management in older cats with arthritis, dental disease, or post-surgical pain. Dose adjustments may be made for cats with significant liver or kidney disease. Your vet will determine the appropriate dose.

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