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Are you struggling with your pet’s behavior? Is your furry friend showing signs of separation anxiety, aggression, or obsessive-compulsive disorders? Look no further than Clomipramine. This tricyclic antidepressant medication has been proven effective in treating a variety of behavior disorders in pets, including urine spraying in cats and feather picking in birds.
Understanding Clomipramine
Clomipramine, also known by its brand names Clomicalm®, Anafranil®, Clofranil®, Clopram®, Clopress®, Equinorm®, Hydiphen®, Maronil®, Novo-Clopramine®, Placil®, Tranquax®, and Zoiral®, is a medication that can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life. While it is commonly prescribed for dogs, it is often used off-label for cats, birds, and dogs at higher doses to address behavior disorders. It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s directions carefully, as their guidance may differ from the label instructions.
Administering Clomipramine
Clomipramine comes in the form of tablets, capsules, or a liquid suspension. It can be given with or without food, but if your pet experiences vomiting when dosed on an empty stomach, it’s best to administer future doses with food. It’s crucial to provide your pet with fresh water at all times while using this medication. Keep in mind that clomipramine should always be used in combination with behavior modification therapy.
Before starting your pet on clomipramine, consult with your veterinarian if they have worn a flea or tick collar in the past two weeks. It may take a few weeks for the medication to show its full effects, although you may notice gradual improvements after just a few days.
Potential Side Effects and Risk Factors
Like any medication, clomipramine may cause side effects. Some common side effects include lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, elevated liver enzymes, difficulty urinating, or tiredness. Cats tend to be more susceptible to these side effects. It’s important to be aware of serious side effects such as abnormal bleeding, fever, seizures, coma, excessive excitement, or a fast or irregular heartbeat. In cats, serious side effects may manifest as drooling, unsteadiness, or an ungroomed haircoat.
Clomipramine should not be used in pets who are allergic to it or other tricyclic antidepressants. It is also essential to avoid using it concurrently with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MOIs) and aged cheeses. Additionally, it should be used cautiously in pets with aggression, decreased gastrointestinal movement, difficulty urinating, heart disease, glaucoma, liver disease, diabetes, adrenal tumors, dry eye syndrome, or overactive thyroid. Use extra caution when administering clomipramine to old or very young pets, as well as pregnant or lactating pets.
Interactions and Storage
Clomipramine may interact with other medications, so it’s crucial to inform your veterinarian about any other medications, vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies your pet is currently taking. Some medications that should be used with caution when given alongside clomipramine include albuterol, anticholinergic agents, azole antifungals, bupropion, and several others.
Store the tablet and capsule forms of clomipramine at room temperature, between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C), protected from moisture and sunlight. If you have a compounded formulation, follow the storage instructions on the label.
In Case of Emergency
If you suspect an overdose or encounter any adverse reactions to clomipramine, contact your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their instructions on how to reach an emergency facility.
Remember, by combining clomipramine with behavior modification therapy, you can make a positive difference in your pet’s behavior. Stay consistent, be patient, and with the help of Katten TrimSalon, your pet can lead a happier and more balanced life.