As Rx drugs are more frequently prescribed, it is important to review articles like this. Trazodone can reliably and safely induce sedation and anxiolysis in dogs and cats for treatment of acute fear, stress and anxiety. More research has been conducted in dogs and it is most often administered for situational use during exposure to acute stressors or to achieve sedation.
The authors discuss indications, dosage, concurrent use with other pharmacological agents and cautions. They note alternatives which are more effective for situational use in cats.
Source: Clinician’s Brief, updated December 2025. Link.
FOR ANXIETY should be specified as the treatment indication on the Rx label and owners should be educated about the difference between trazodone and tramadol.”
Image: Link.