Cat Benadryl Dosage Calculator
Calculate safe Benadryl (diphenhydramine) dosages for your cat
Important: This calculator provides general guidelines for Benadryl administration in cats. Benadryl should only be used under veterinary supervision. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your cat.
Benadryl Dosage Results
Recommended Dosage
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Dosage Range
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Administration Schedule
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Maximum Daily Dose
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Dosage Calculation Breakdown
Base Dosage (per pound)
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Age Adjustment
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Health Status Adjustment
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Severity Adjustment
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Final Dosage
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Safe Dosage Range: -
Administration Guidelines
- With Food: Give with a small amount of food to reduce stomach upset
- Timing: Administer every 8-12 hours as needed
- Missed Dose: Give as soon as possible, skip if close to next dose
- Storage: Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture
- Handling: Wash hands after handling medication
- Disposal: Dispose of unused medication properly
Common Side Effects
- Mild Effects: Drowsiness, dry mouth, decreased appetite
- Moderate Effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, restlessness
- Serious Effects: Difficulty breathing, seizures, severe lethargy, allergic reactions
- Behavioral Changes: Agitation, confusion, unusual behavior
- Monitoring: Watch for any unusual symptoms or behavior changes
Drug Interactions & Contraindications
Central Nervous System Depression: May increase effects of sedatives, tranquilizers, and other medications
MAO Inhibitors: Avoid use with MAO inhibitors due to risk of severe reactions
Anticholinergic Effects: May worsen conditions like glaucoma, urinary retention, or heart problems
Liver/Kidney Issues: Dosage adjustment may be needed for cats with impaired organ function
Other Medications: Review all medications with veterinarian before use
Contraindications & Precautions
- Absolute Contraindications: Known hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine, glaucoma, urinary retention
- Use with Caution: Cats with heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, seizures
- Pregnancy/Lactation: Safety not established, use only if benefits outweigh risks
- Geriatric Cats: May be more sensitive to side effects
- Small Cats: May require more careful dosing and monitoring
- Concurrent Medications: Review all medications with veterinarian
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Symptom Assessment: Monitor for improvement in symptoms
- Side Effects: Watch for any adverse reactions or behavior changes
- Liver Function: Regular blood work for long-term use
- Kidney Function: Monitor kidney values if kidney issues present
- Efficacy: Assess symptom relief and adjust dosage as needed
- Dosage Adjustments: May need changes based on response and side effects
- Veterinary Follow-up: Regular check-ups during treatment
Critical Safety Information:
- Benadryl is a medication - never give without veterinary approval
- This calculator provides general guidelines only - follow your veterinarian's specific instructions
- Never exceed recommended dosages or frequency
- Contact your veterinarian immediately if side effects occur
- Keep medication out of reach of children and other pets
- Do not stop medication abruptly without veterinary guidance
- Store medication securely and dispose of properly
- Monitor for signs of overdose: extreme sedation, difficulty breathing, seizures
- Have emergency veterinary contact information readily available
- Consider microchipping your cat in case of emergency