CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson,
Your cat has been prescribed prazosin for the treatment of urethral spasm.
Your veterinarian has prescribed prazosin for the treatment of difficulty urinating. Prazosin relaxes smooth muscle (helping relieve urethral spasm).
Prazosin is given orally (as capsules). It is usually administered two to three times daily but follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions. Capsules can either be administered directly into your cat’s mouth or given with food.
Possible side-effects of prazosin include low blood pressure, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some cats may experience constipation. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible if you have any concerns so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required. Prazosin interacts with many drugs including beta-blockers, diuretics and sulfonamide antibiotics. Discuss your cat’s other medications and supplements with your veterinarian.
Prazosin should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.
Dispose of any unused prazosin safely - do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save prazosin for future use or give to other pets.
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period. If you accidentally double dose your pet with prazosin, call your veterinarian immediately for advice.
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
Prazosin should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
No specific tests are required while your cat is taking prazosin, but your veterinarian will need to check your pet regularly to ensure that the drug is working safely and to comply with prescribing regulations.