Can cats take buprenorphine?

In this article:

• Uses
• Safety
• Dosage
• Alternatives
• The bottom line

In this article

• Uses
• Safety
• Dosage
• Alternatives
• The bottom line

If your feline friend is in pain, you want to help them find relief—and fast. For short-term issues, such as surgery or injury, your veterinarian might prescribe buprenorphine, an analgesic (pain reliever) that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cats in 2014. Find out what animal health experts recommend when using buprenorphine for cats.

What is buprenorphine used for in cats?

“Buprenorphine is a pain medication used primarily for pain relief in cats,” says Dean Vicksman, a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) and the board president of EveryCat Health Foundation. It works by targeting receptors in the central nervous system to reduce discomfort. Buprenorphine is a controlled substance that is often administered at the veterinarian’s office, though certain formulations may be prescribed for at-home use.

It’s used to treat acute pain from:

• Surgeries, such as spays and neuters
• Dental procedures, like a tooth removal
• Urinary tract issues
• Wounds, such as bite wounds
• Injuries

An extensive review of the evidence found buprenorphine is effective for pain control after surgical procedures in cats. However, there is no supporting data for its use for chronic pain, such as arthritis.

There are two versions of buprenorphine that are specifically formulated for cats:

• Simbadol: an injectable formulation of buprenorphine that lasts for 24 hours, often given by the veterinarian along with an anesthetic for a surgery
• Zorbium: a solution applied transdermally (to the skin) that provides pain relief for up to 4 days

The human form of buprenorphine, also sold under the brand name Buprenex, is also often used in cats, but it’s considered off-label use.

Is buprenorphine safe for cats?

Yes, buprenorphine is safe for cats. It is FDA approved for post-operative pain, but veterinarians also use it for other types of pain management in felines.

Extra caution should be given when using buprenorphine for cats with a history of liver disease and kidney disease. Like any medication, there are side effects and interactions to be aware of before administering it to your cat.

Side effects of buprenorphine in cats

Common side effects of buprenorphine in cats can include:

• Sedation
• Euphoria or excitement
• Dilated pupils
• Constipation

More serious side effects and adverse reactions cats may experience on buprenorphine include:

• Respiratory depression (shallow or slow breathing)
• Slowed heart rate
• Vomiting
• Hyperthermia, or increased body temperature

Speak to your vet first about what to expect when giving your cat this medication at home or after bringing your cat home from the vet. If your cat experiences serious lethargy or frequent vomiting, seek prompt medical treatment for your cat.

Interactions of buprenorphine with other pet meds

Some drugs may interact with buprenorphine, so be sure to share a full list of your pet’s medications. Since buprenorphine can cause sedation, be mindful of giving any other sedatives to your cat at the same time. Some drugs with known interactions with buprenorphine include:

• Anticonvulsants
• Benzodiazepines
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Naloxone
• Tramadol

Also, be sure to tell your veterinarian about any supplements your pet may take, like CBD treats, to ensure your cat doesn’t experience a dangerous drug interaction.

Buprenorphine dosage for cats

“The dosage typically ranges from 0.02 to 0.04 milligrams per kilogram, given every 8 to 12 hours,” says Dr. Vicksman. It’s essential only to use the exact dosage for cats rather than sharing your human prescription. 

Can cats overdose on buprenorphine?

Cats can overdose on buprenorphine, which is why it’s so important only to give the prescribed amount as determined by your veterinarian. Thankfully, an overdose of buprenorphine is rarely fatal or life-threatening for cats.

Signs of buprenorphine overdose in cats include vomiting and severe lethargy or sedation. If you notice these signs of overdose, seek medical attention from your local veterinarian.

Can I give my cat buprenorphine every day?

“There is no evidence that it cannot be taken long-term,” explains Christina Holmes, DVM, an Emergency and Critical Care Veterinarian at Thrive Pet Healthcare Specialists in San Antonio. However, it’s not the best option for chronic pain for most pet owners because it is an opioid and controlled substance, and administration can be difficult.

How to give your cat buprenorphine

There are multiple formulations of buprenorphine for cats:

• Injection
• Transdermal (absorbed through the skin)
• Oral solution (also called transmucosal, administered under the tongue or in the cheek pouch)

Depending on what type of buprenorphine product your vet recommends, they will give you the exact instructions for administration. The drug should also come with detailed instructions for its formulation. Typically, buprenorphine is given as an injection at the veterinary facility rather than at the pet owner’s home.

If you forget a dose, you can adjust the medication schedule. Give your cat the missed dose when noticed, and then wait 8 to 12 hours before giving them another dose. Since buprenorphine is typically given for short-term uses, there is no need to taper the prescription before ending it.

Buprenorphine alternatives for cats

There are several alternatives for buprenorphine. Other pain-relieving medications for cats, which all will require a veterinarian’s prescription, include:

• Gabapentin
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) formulated for cats like Onsior (robenacoxib)
• Solensia (frunevetmab)
• Tramadol

The bottom line

Treating pain with buprenorphine may be right for your cat after surgeries or other procedures. When determining the best course of treatment for managing your cat’s pain, your veterinarian can develop the proper treatment plan.