Clomipramine for Cats: Uses, Side Effects, and How to Save

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Introduction

If your cat has been struggling with stress-related behaviors—such as excessive grooming, aggression, separation anxiety, or inappropriate urination—your veterinarian may prescribe clomipramine. Although originally developed for humans, clomipramine is also commonly used in veterinary medicine to help manage behavioral conditions in cats.

In this article, we’ll explore how clomipramine may be used for cats, what conditions it’s prescribed for, possible side effects, and how pet owners may be able to save on the cost by using a CareCard prescription discount card at participating pharmacies.

What Is Clomipramine?

Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters—primarily serotonin—in the brain. By helping regulate mood and stress responses, clomipramine can reduce anxiety-based behaviors in cats.

This medication is available in human-approved tablet and capsule forms, and it may also be specially compounded for cats to make dosing easier.

Clomipramine is not a sedative. Instead, it gradually helps regulate compulsive or anxious behaviors over time.

What Clomipramine May Be Used to Treat in Cats

Veterinarians may prescribe clomipramine for cats dealing with stress-related or compulsive behaviors, including:

• Separation anxiety

• Inappropriate urination or spraying

• Aggression triggered by stress or fear

• Compulsive behaviors, such as excessive grooming or licking

• Inter-cat conflict

• Obsessive pacing or vocalizing

Clomipramine is often used alongside behavior modification or environmental enrichment strategies recommended by your veterinarian.

Administration and Dosage

Clomipramine is typically given once daily, either with or without food. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage based on your cat’s weight, age, overall health, and the behavioral condition being treated.

Important points to know:

• Behavioral medications usually take several weeks to show full effect.

• Your veterinarian may start with a lower dose and gradually adjust based on response.

• Never change your cat’s dose or stop the medication without veterinary guidance, as sudden discontinuation may lead to withdrawal-like symptoms.

If tablets are difficult for your cat to swallow, ask your veterinarian whether a compounded liquid or flavored formulation is appropriate.

Always give clomipramine exactly as directed and follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions.

Potential Side Effects of Clomipramine in Cats

Clomipramine is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects in some cats.

Possible side effects may include:

• Mild sedation or drowsiness

• Decreased appetite

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Dry mouth

• Increased thirst

• Changes in behavior or irritability

• Urinary retention (difficulty urinating)

Serious but less common side effects may include heart rhythm changes or seizures, especially in cats with pre-existing medical conditions.

If your cat exhibits severe, unusual, or persistent symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away.

Monitoring and Precautions

Clomipramine should only be used under veterinary supervision. Before prescribing it, your veterinarian will consider factors such as:

• Heart disease

• Kidney or liver issues

• Glaucoma

• Seizure disorders

• Current medications (drug interactions are possible)

Routine monitoring—such as periodic exams or bloodwork—may be recommended during long-term treatment.

Never give your cat clomipramine that was prescribed for a person or another pet, and never start or stop the medication without veterinary guidance.

Can You Save on Clomipramine for Cats?

Clomipramine is a human medication that veterinarians may prescribe for cats in adjusted doses. If your veterinarian provides a written prescription that can be filled at a retail pharmacy, you may be able to use a CareCard prescription discount card to look for available savings.

This depends on:

• Whether the prescribed formulation is one carried by human pharmacies

• Whether the dosage matches an available strength

• Whether your veterinarian approves filling it at a retail pharmacy rather than a veterinary one

To check for savings, request a written prescription and present your CareCard prescription discount card at the pharmacy counter.

Conclusion

Clomipramine may help manage anxiety-related and compulsive behaviors in cats, improving overall well-being and quality of life. It should always be used under veterinary supervision, with careful attention to dosage, potential side effects, and follow-up monitoring.

If your veterinarian provides a prescription that can be filled at a standard pharmacy, you may be able to use a CareCard prescription discount card to help reduce the cost. CareCard is free to use and accepted at over 80,000 pharmacies nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does clomipramine treat in cats?

Clomipramine may be prescribed for separation anxiety, inappropriate urination, compulsive grooming, aggression, or other stress-related behaviors.

How long does clomipramine take to work in cats?

Most cats begin showing improvement within 2–4 weeks, though full effects may take longer.

Is clomipramine safe for cats?

When used under veterinary supervision, clomipramine is generally considered safe, though side effects can occur.

Can I use a prescription discount card for my cat’s clomipramine?

In many cases, yes—if the prescription is written for a human-approved version and can be filled at a standard pharmacy.

What are the possible side effects of clomipramine in cats?

Side effects may include sedation, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, or behavioral changes. Severe or persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian.