What this calculator does
The Gabapentin for Cats Dosage Calculator estimates a single oral dose of gabapentin for a cat based on its body weight and a dose rate in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). Veterinarians commonly prescribe gabapentin to cats to reduce anxiety and stress before vet visits, travel, or grooming, and sometimes for chronic pain. This tool is an educational aid only — it is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
How to use it
Enter your cat's weight, choose kilograms or pounds, and set the dose rate your vet recommended. The typical published range for situational anxiety in cats is roughly 5–20 mg/kg. The calculator shows the dose at your chosen rate plus the low (5 mg/kg) and high (20 mg/kg) ends so you can see the safe band.
The formula explained
The math is simple:
$$\text{Dose (mg)} = \text{Weight (kg)} \times \text{Rate (mg/kg)}$$If you enter pounds, the weight is first converted to kilograms by multiplying by \(0.453592\). For example, a 4.5 kg cat at 10 mg/kg gives \(4.5 \times 10 = 45\) mg. The same cat at the low end (5 mg/kg) needs \(22.5\) mg and at the high end (20 mg/kg) needs \(90\) mg.
Worked example
A 10 lb cat converts to about 4.54 kg. At 15 mg/kg the dose is
$$4.54 \times 15 \approx 68 \text{ mg}$$Gabapentin capsules and the compounded liquid come in fixed strengths, so your vet will round to a practical amount.
FAQ
How long before a vet visit should I give it? Vets often advise giving the dose 2–3 hours before the appointment, but follow your prescription exactly.
Is gabapentin safe for cats? It is widely used and generally well tolerated, but dosing must be individualised — never use leftover human or dog medication without veterinary direction.
Can I dose by guessing the weight? No. Accurate weight matters; weigh your cat or use the most recent clinic weight.
