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PetDosageChart

Neurontin (Gabapentin) Dosage for Cats

Anticonvulsant / Analgesic ⏱ Onset: 1-2 hours ⏳ Duration: 8-12 hours

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.

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Neurontin Dosage Chart for Cats by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
3 lbs (1.4 kg) 7mg 14mg 28mg every 8-12 hours
4 lbs (1.8 kg) 9mg 18mg 36mg every 8-12 hours
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 11.5mg 23mg 46mg every 8-12 hours
6 lbs (2.7 kg) 13.5mg 27mg 54mg every 8-12 hours
7 lbs (3.2 kg) 16mg 32mg 64mg every 8-12 hours
8 lbs (3.6 kg) 18mg 36mg 72mg every 8-12 hours
9 lbs (4.1 kg) 20.5mg 41mg 82mg (100mg tablet) every 8-12 hours
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 22.5mg 45mg 90mg (100mg tablet) every 8-12 hours
12 lbs (5.4 kg) 27mg 54mg 108mg (100mg tablet) every 8-12 hours
14 lbs (6.3 kg) 31.5mg 63mg 126mg every 8-12 hours
16 lbs (7.3 kg) 36.5mg 73mg 146mg every 8-12 hours
18 lbs (8.2 kg) 41mg 82mg (100mg tablet) 164mg every 8-12 hours
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 45.5mg 91mg (100mg tablet) 182mg (2 × 100mg) every 8-12 hours
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 56.5mg 113mg (100mg tablet) 226mg every 8-12 hours

What is Neurontin (Gabapentin) used for in cats?

pain management anxiety (especially vet visits) seizures neuropathic pain

How to give Neurontin to your cat

Gabapentin capsules can be opened and the powder mixed with a small amount of wet food or tuna juice. Do NOT use liquid gabapentin formulations made for humans, as they often contain xylitol which is toxic. For vet visit anxiety, give a single dose 2-3 hours before the appointment. Cats may become very wobbly — this is a normal effect.

Available Forms

capsule, tablet, liquid

Give with Food?

Yes — give with food

Side effects of Neurontin in cats

Common side effects

sedation
wobbliness (ataxia)
lethargy
decreased appetite

Serious side effects

  • severe sedation
  • loss of coordination
  • depression
  • rebound seizures if stopped abruptly

When to call the vet

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

  • Extreme sedation or inability to stand for more than 12 hours
  • Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Seizures (especially if a dose was missed)
  • Vomiting repeatedly after taking

Related Medications for Cats

Barbiturate anticonvulsant

Luminal

Phenobarbital

For seizures

View dosage chart
Opioid Analgesic (Atypical)

Ultram

Tramadol

For Moderate to severe pain management

View dosage chart
Antihistamine

Benadryl

Diphenhydramine

For allergies

View dosage chart
NK1 receptor antagonist / Antiemetic

Cerenia

Maropitant

For vomiting

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 Gabapentin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much gabapentin can I give my cat?
The typical dose for cats is 5-10 mg/kg every 8-12 hours for pain, or a single dose of 50-100 mg given 2-3 hours before vet visits for anxiety. A common pre-vet anxiety dose is one 100 mg capsule for an average-sized cat. Your vet will determine the right dose for your cat.
Will gabapentin make my cat act drunk?
Yes, wobbliness (ataxia) is a very common effect of gabapentin in cats, especially at higher doses or when first starting the medication. Your cat may stumble, have trouble jumping, or seem uncoordinated. This is a normal side effect and usually resolves within 8-12 hours.
Can gabapentin hurt my cat?
Gabapentin has a wide safety margin in cats. Serious adverse effects are rare at recommended doses. The main risk is excessive sedation, which resolves as the drug wears off. Never use human liquid gabapentin, as it may contain xylitol. If your cat takes gabapentin for seizures, never stop abruptly.
How long does gabapentin last in cats?
Gabapentin effects typically last 8-12 hours in cats. When given for vet visit anxiety, plan for your cat to be sedated for most of the day. Sedation and wobbliness gradually wear off over several hours.
Can I open a gabapentin capsule for my cat?
Yes, gabapentin capsules can be opened and the powder sprinkled on food or mixed with a small amount of wet food, tuna juice, or a compounded treat. The powder is slightly bitter but most cats tolerate it when mixed with a flavorful food.

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