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My cat is "smashed" on Gabapentin. Can I give smaller, frequent doses?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Bengal | Male | neutered | 5 years and 8 months old | 10.5 lbs

My cat was prescribed 100mg of gabapentin (capsules) twice a day for anxiety and hyperesthesia. I gave the first dose of 100mg last night in some food and he didn’t just seem a bit drunk but “smashed” drunk. Can I give it to him throughout the day in smaller amounts with food as he eats every two hours? Can it be effective in that way or does it need a big dose to be effective? I want my cats anxiety to ease but I do not want to change his personality by seeing him drunk all the time.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2021

Hello. I would cut back on the Gabapentin. You need to find the lowest possible dose that will ease his anxiety without affecting his ability to function during the day. I would start with 1/2 capsule twice a day. I would see how he responds, & keep decreasing b 50% until his symptoms are fairly well controlled, but his behavior seems normal. some pets jus do no tolerate his medication at all. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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