Gabapentin is a 'calming' drug that requires a vet prescription. A standard consult is usually required where they will also perform an overall health check. Tip: Ask for a full script to prevent the need to see the vet each time. 

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GUIDANCE ON HOW TO ADMINISTER AND WHEN

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NB If I've given you any specific instructions that are different, please follow that guidance (for example, some cats need 2 hours lead time)

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90 minutes before the appointment please give your cat their dose of gaba. It's USUALLY 100mg, but a vet will have made that decision. 

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Please ensure your cat has fasted for 12 hours before giving the tablet. 

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For this reason, I often recommend taking the first available appointment of the day.

 

I DO NOT recommend giving a dose of gaba the night before. It works best with a single full dose on an empty stomach.  

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RECOMMENDED TECHNIQUE:

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You'll need:

A small mixing bowl (I use a soy sauce dish)

A syringe without the needle (they cost about a dollar from a chemist).

The cat nearby... I suggest getting the syringe prepared first

You MAY want an extra pair of calming hands to assist

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Step 1: Draw 2-3ml of water into the syringe

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Step 2: Squirt the water into your empty mixing bowl

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Step 3: Open the gabapentin capsuel, tip out the powder and stir

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Step 4: Draw the gaba water into the syringe

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Step 5: I recommend having the cat sitting up on a table as it's easier. Apply a wide grip scruff and tilt the cat's head back, so they are looking at the ceiling

 

Step 6: With one swift motion, insert the syringe into the cat's mouth. A good grip on the neck assists, and I like to start by putting the tip of the needle up to the corner of their mouth

 

Step 7: When the cat starts to open it's mouth (perhaps defensively), move the needle a litte deeper into their throat, aim for the back of the throat, and squirt it in. 

 

Step 8: Tell the cat how good they were, give them a pat, and clean up

Note: If more than a quarter of the dose missed, consider repeating this again with another full syringe, and have them ingest (roughly) how much you think they missed. 

That should cover it - looking forward to seeing you and your (hopefully calm!) cat soon!  😻