What It Is:
Cerenia is the brand name for maropitant citrate, a prescription anti-nausea medication used in cats to treat vomiting, motion sickness, and nausea caused by various conditions. It is the only FDA approved antiemetic for cats, and is available in both oral tablets and injectable form.
Cerenia works quickly and is commonly used in both short term situations and long term management of chronic nausea.
🐾 What It Treats
Cerenia is prescribed for:
- Acute vomiting
- Motion sickness
- Postoperative nausea
- Nausea caused by kidney disease, pancreatitis, or chemotherapy
- Appetite loss due to nausea
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
It is often used when vomiting needs to be stopped quickly, and is part of the supportive care plan for many serious illnesses.
🧪 How It Works
Cerenia blocks neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptors in the brain, which are responsible for triggering the vomiting reflex. By blocking these signals, Cerenia prevents nausea and vomiting regardless of the cause.
Unlike many older medications, it does not cause drowsiness, which makes it ideal for routine use or travel.
🐾 Dosage and Administration
Cerenia is available in:
- Injectable form, often used in clinics for immediate relief
- Oral tablets, used for at home treatment or prevention
Typical guidelines include:
- Oral tablets given once daily
- For motion sickness, give two hours before travel
- Dose is based on your cat’s weight
- Tablets should not be split or crushed
- May be given with or without food, though giving with food may help reduce stomach upset
Always follow your vet’s instructions closely, and never substitute other anti-nausea medications without approval.
🔍 Side Effects and Precautions
Cerenia is well tolerated by most cats, but side effects can include:
- Pain or swelling at the injection site
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea in rare cases
Use with caution in cats with:
- Liver disease
- Known sensitivity to maropitant
- Kittens under four months of age (oral use) or sixteen weeks (injectable use)
Cerenia may interact with certain medications, so be sure to inform your vet of any other drugs or supplements your cat is taking.
🩺 Prognosis
Cerenia provides fast and effective relief from vomiting and nausea:
- Vomiting often stops within one to two hours
- Appetite may return once nausea is controlled
- Used safely for short term and long term care, depending on the underlying condition
For chronic illness, Cerenia is often used as part of a larger treatment plan.
💡 Cat Owner Note
Few things are as stressful as watching your cat throw up and not knowing why. Cerenia is one of the go to tools vets rely on to quickly calm the stomach and get cats back on track. If your cat gets carsick, stops eating, or is battling illness, ask your vet whether Cerenia can help.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cerenia for Cats
How fast does Cerenia work in cats?
Relief from vomiting usually begins within one to two hours after administration.
Can I give Cerenia before travel?
Yes. Give the oral tablet two hours before a trip to help prevent motion sickness.
How long can my cat stay on Cerenia?
It can be used short term or long term under vet supervision. For motion sickness, the oral form is approved for up to five days in a row.
Does Cerenia cause drowsiness?
No. It controls nausea without sedation, unlike many older medications.
Can I crush the tablet if my cat won’t take pills?
No. Cerenia tablets should not be split or crushed. Ask your vet about alternate methods or formulations.
Is Cerenia safe for kittens?
Cerenia is safe for kittens over four months old (oral) or sixteen weeks old (injectable), with veterinary supervision.