Is Gabapentin (Neurontin) Safe for Cats?
Why it’s conditional
Gabapentin is widely used in cats for chronic pain, vet-visit anxiety, and seizure control, but a single 300 mg human capsule can far exceed a cat dose. Overdosed cats become profoundly sedated and wobbly, and cats that chew into capsules have been reported to show vomiting and severe stumbling.
How to keep your pet safe
Use only gabapentin prescribed for your cat and store all capsules in a closed cabinet. Because it is often given before vet trips, keep the pet supply and your own supply clearly separated.
Warning signs to watch for
Heavy sedation, wobbliness, stumbling, lethargy, drooling, occasional vomiting; severe cases: weakness, falling over, low body temperature.
When to call the vet
Call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline with the capsule strength and your cat’s weight if exposure is uncertain. Keep a sedated cat on the floor, away from stairs and heights.
Common questions
My cat got into my gabapentin capsules — is it dangerous?
It can be — one human capsule is often more than a cat dose, and several can cause deep sedation. Call your vet or a poison hotline for a weight-based assessment.
My vet prescribed gabapentin for my cat — is that normal?
Yes, it is one of the most common feline prescriptions for pain and anxiety. Just never substitute your own human capsules — the strengths are very different.
More medications hazards for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).