Cat Pain Relief

Cats can have a need for pain medication as the result of injury, surgery, or a chronic condition such as arthritis. There are many medications marketed for pain relief for cats. From herbal supplements to medications designed for human consumption, people use different medications to treat pain in cats. However, the safest medication for a cat’s pain is the medication that the cat owner gets from the veterinarian.

Herbal remedies may be tempting products for pain relief for cats, but usually they are not scientifically tested. Herbal remedies for cat pain are often designed based on how the herbal substances react with humans. But, cats do not always have the same benefit from herbal supplements as humans have from the same supplements.

Some cat owners use over-the-counter pain relievers for humans to treat their cats. This is a dangerous practice as some pain relievers can be toxic to cats. Acetaminophen, a common active ingredient on over-the-counter pain relievers, is poisonous to cats. Aspirin is sometimes used by cat owners, especially baby aspirin where still available, but it is very easy to overmedication a cat on aspirin and cause an overdose.

By far, the best medication is medication that is designed specifically for pain relief for cats. Prednisone, glucosamine, and chondroitin are examples of pain relievers for cats. A veterinarian may prescribe cat pain relievers that are in the form of injections as well. For cats that need ongoing pain management, the veterinarian will design a schedule of a medication or medications to help the cat function without pain.

For a cat with arthritis or chronic pain with movement, the cat owner can make some adjustments in the home to help the cat. Sometimes, a lower litter box helps the cat be able to use it without pain from climbing over steep sides. A cat bed can provide cushioning while the cat is resting. This can reduce the pressure on the joints. The cat owner should ask the veterinarian if there are any other ways to help the cat live pain free. If the cat owner wants to try herbal supplements or some other pain management technique, the cat owner should talk to the veterinarian first.