How long can a cat live on phenobarbital?
Phenobarbital was given to all treated cats either alone or in combination with diazepam (6) or levetiracetam (12). Median survival time of treated cats was 2.3 years (range 0.1 to 11 years), and 65% were still alive at the time of follow-up.
What does phenobarbital do to cats?
Cats can exhibit incoordination, sedation, lethargy, facial itchiness, increased appetite and associated weight gain, and increased thirst and urination. Rarely, cats can have decreased blood cell counts on bloodwork.
What happens if I give my cat too much phenobarbital?
Symptoms of over dosage of Phenobarbital are ataxia (drunk acting), lethargy, sedation, recumbency (inability to stand), depression, hypothermia (decreased temperature), coma, and death. In addition, there is also a concern for damage to the liver.
How long does it take for a cat to adjust to phenobarbital?
Once phenobarbital therapy is initiated, it usually takes a few weeks for the medication to build up to a therapeutic level in the blood. Most veterinarians recommend that a phenobarbital level test be performed 2 to 4 weeks after the pet begins receiving the medication.
Can a cat’s personality change after a seizure?
Since seizures tend to be very brief, you may not notice your cat having one. Alternatively, you may notice abnormal behavior after a seizure, during what’s known as the postictal phase. Your cat may exhibit excessive tiredness or excitement, binge eating and drinking, or abnormal pacing.
What are some common problems with those on phenobarbital?
slowed breathing or difficulty breathing. swelling of the eyes, lips, or cheeks. rash. blistering or peeling skin.
How much phenobarbital can a cat take?
In cats, phenobarbital is dosed at 7.5 to 15 mg per cat every 12 hours. Based on response, the dose may be increased up to 8 mg per pound (16 mg/kg) per day. The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects.
What is the therapeutic level of phenobarbital for cats?
20–30 μg/mL
The therapeutic range for PB in cats is generally considered to be 20–30 μg/mL and is extrapolated from what is effective, but not toxic, in dogs. Serum PB concentrations should be measured 2–3 weeks after starting treatment and after any change in dose.
Is a seizure painful for a cat?
Cat seizures can look dramatic, but the animal is typically not in pain. Seizures can last anywhere from seconds to a few minutes, and it may take your cat time to regroup afterward.
What does a phenobarbital overdose feel like?
An overdose of phenobarbital can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include slow or shallow breathing, weak pulse, cold or clammy skin, little or no urination, pinpoint pupils, feeling cold, or fainting. Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.
Can you cut phenobarbital in half?
Digoxin, phenobarbital, and prednisolone tablet splitting produces highly weight variable half-tablets.
How long should phenobarbital be taken?
It works by controlling the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that occurs during a seizure. This medication is also used for a short time (usually no more than 2 weeks) to help calm you or help you sleep during periods of anxiety.
How long does it take for phenobarbital to kick in?
How long does it take for the oral version of phenobarbital to start working? This medication starts to work in 30 to 60 minutes. The effects can last up to 10 to 12 hours, depending on the formulation and your medical condition.
Does phenobarbital stop seizures in cats?
Phenobarbital is the medication that is most commonly used to treat seizures and epilepsy in cats. 1 It is a barbiturate medication that acts as an anticonvulsant. As an anticonvulsant, it is used to prevent recurrent seizures.
When is it time to put a cat down with seizures?
If a seizure lasts longer than five to 10 minutes then it’s called “status epilepticus,” and is a medical emergency; you should take your cat for emergency veterinary care immediately.
How do I comfort my cat after a seizure?
You can do the following to help your cat:
- Remain calm.
- Remember your cat is unconscious and making uncontrolled movements, including snapping his jaw.
- If possible, move your cat to a safe place, away from stairs, furniture, etc.
- When the seizure stops, your cat will be disoriented and may not recognize you.