Common Veterinary Indications for Prazosin: Hypertension, Anxiety, and More

Veterinarians frequently prescribe prazosin to manage feline and canine hypertension. Dosage varies depending on the animal’s size and condition; always follow your veterinarian’s instructions precisely.

Beyond hypertension, prazosin effectively treats anxiety in animals, especially in situations causing fear or stress. This includes noise phobias (like fireworks or thunderstorms) and separation anxiety. Observe your pet closely after starting prazosin for anxiety; some experience mild sedation as a side effect.

Prazosin also shows promise in managing other conditions. For instance, it can help reduce urinary incontinence in dogs, particularly older females. Additionally, some veterinarians use it to treat hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats, to reduce the workload on the heart. Remember, these are off-label uses, and your veterinarian should thoroughly assess the risks and benefits before prescribing prazosin for these conditions. Careful monitoring is vital in all cases.

Always consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any medication, including prazosin. They can assess your pet’s specific needs, determine the appropriate dosage, and monitor for any potential side effects.