Guide to Gabapentin for Dogs & Cats UK

Gabapentin is a medication commonly prescribed for dogs and cats in the UK to help manage pain and reduce stress in certain situations. If your vet has mentioned gabapentin, or you’ve come across it while researching your pet’s condition, it’s important to understand what it’s used for, how it works, and how it can be obtained legally.

Although it is a human medicine, gabapentin is widely used in veterinary practice under the prescribing cascade when clinically appropriate.

What is gabapentin used for in dogs and cats?

In veterinary medicine, gabapentin is most commonly used for its effects on nerve-related pain and its calming properties. It is not typically a first-line treatment for seizures in dogs and cats, but may occasionally be used as part of a broader treatment plan in specific cases.

It may be prescribed for:

• Neuropathic (nerve-related) pain
• Chronic pain conditions, including osteoarthritis (as part of a multimodal approach)
• Short-term anxiety or stress (such as vet visits, travel, or fireworks)
• Situational sedation where gentle calming is required

Gabapentin is often used alongside other medications, particularly in long-term pain management plans, and should always be used under veterinary guidance.

How do I get gabapentin for my pet?

Example packaging of gabapentin (human medication used under the veterinary cascade)

Because gabapentin is used under the veterinary cascade in the UK, it must follow a regulated prescribing and supply process.

1. Veterinary assessment

Your veterinary surgeon must assess your pet and decide that gabapentin is an appropriate option based on their clinical condition.

2. A written prescription

Your vet may either supply the medication directly or issue a written prescription for you to obtain it elsewhere.

3. Supply against a valid prescription

The medication is then dispensed in accordance with UK regulations, based on that prescription.

What happens next?

If gabapentin has been discussed as part of your pet’s treatment plan, the next step is usually confirming suitability through a clinical assessment.

As gabapentin is supplied under the veterinary cascade, it cannot be purchased without a prescription. Once your vet has issued a prescription, it can be dispensed by an appropriate UK supplier.

At this stage, no further action is needed until your prescription is ready.

Why is gabapentin only available under the veterinary cascade?

Gabapentin is not licensed for veterinary use in the UK. The veterinary cascade allows vets to prescribe human medicines where there is no suitable licensed veterinary alternative, or where it is clinically appropriate to do so.

This ensures that pets can still receive appropriate treatment while maintaining regulatory oversight.

Where can gabapentin be obtained?

Once a valid prescription has been issued, gabapentin may be obtained from:

• Your veterinary practice
• A UK supplier operating in accordance with veterinary medicines regulations

All legitimate suppliers must comply with strict regulatory standards set by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

Why do prices vary between providers?

The cost of gabapentin can vary depending on how it is sourced, the supplier’s operating model, and other overheads associated with dispensing and compliance.

Why do veterinary drug prices vary so much?

Common questions about gabapentin for pets

Is gabapentin safe for dogs and cats?

When prescribed appropriately, gabapentin is widely used and generally well tolerated. Mild sedation or wobbliness can occur, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting the dose.

Can I buy gabapentin without a prescription?

No. Gabapentin cannot legally be supplied in the UK without a valid veterinary prescription.

Is gabapentin used for anxiety in dogs?

Yes. It is commonly used to help reduce short-term stress, such as during veterinary visits, travel, or other anxiety-inducing situations.

Is gabapentin used for pain in cats?

Yes. It is frequently used in cats as part of a broader approach to managing chronic pain, particularly where nerve-related pain is involved.