Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is it safe to give a feral cat Xanax to calm her for the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 6 months old | 7 lbs

Is it ok to give a feral cat 1/4 of a 0.25 mg generic Xanax to sedate her enough to get to the vet?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 20th, 2017

It is unlikely that 1/4 of a 0.25mg alprazolam (Xanax) will sedate Pixie much, if at all. Always check with Pixie's vet prior to giving her any medication. Call the vet who will be examining her to ask if more effective oral sedatives (such as trazodone and/or gabapentin) can be prescribed in order to facilitate the vet visit. That said, use extreme caution giving any prescribed oral medication to Pixie since she is a feral cat. I would not recommend attempting to give her a pill if she is not up to date on her rabies vaccine due to the potential that she may bite you, intentionally or otherwise. If oral medication is not an option for one reason or another, you could either look into mobile vets able to come to your house, or expect to have her sedated at your vet if you are able to get her into a carrier. I hope that all goes well!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    HI, there are drawbacks for giving sedation to a cat for the vet. One would be if the sedation is not enough, they may want to give her something else they have to sedate her and it might interact with the xanax. I cannot tell you to give the medication, but can tell you it is an appropriate dose. First, I would call your vet to see what they recommend and if they would prefer to sedate Pixie with their own medications specifically for animals. There is also something called Feliway, a natural spray you can use that calms cats very well, especially for trips to the vet. You can purchase this online or at a pet store. Good luck, I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    Xanax is generally safe but it is a controlled substance. I cannot recommend administering any controlled prescription medication such as this to a pet that has not been examined by a veterinarian. It may be worthwhile to pursue a house call veterinary service to see if that would be less stressful for Pixie. Alternatively, you can contact the veterinarian you plan to take Pixie to to see what they would recommend for getting her safely to the vet. There are many ways to counter condition a cat to a cat carrier. If you have time to explore these options, that may be better. This is a good resource for getting your cat to like the carrier: http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/teach-your-cat-to-love-riding-in-the-car

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My senior dog has recurring pancreatitis. How can I manage his diet?
Is your 13-year-old dog facing recurring pancreatitis? Get expert vet guidance on managing chronic inflammation, diet, and lifestyle tips for their well-being.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?
Is your cat overweight? A certified vet offers guidance to help your tubby tabby lose weight. Get essential diet and food recommendations to slim down your cat!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my dog burping, sick, and not eating with an upset tummy?
Is your dog burping, feeling sick, and showing tummy discomfort like Buster? A certified veterinarian explains potential causes and recommends next steps for your pet's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored