Retrospective study on the use of venlafaxine in 176 cats diagnosed with behavioral disorders

Behavioral disorders in cats can severely affect their well-being and the owner-pet relationship, sometimes resulting in relinquishment or euthanasia. While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic anti-depressants (TCAs) have been routinely used, venlafaxine, a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that has been effective in treating various human psychiatric conditions, offers potential for veterinary use in addressing feline behavioral disorders. This retrospective study evaluates the use of venlafaxine in 176 cats diagnosed with a variety of behavioral disorders to assess its efficacy, safety, and ease of administration within privately owned-cats. Cats were from multiple veterinary practices which collected data on dosage, administration, adverse effects, and overall treatment outcomes. Both quantitative and qualitative data were gathered through veterinary records and owner surveys, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of venlafaxine’s effect on cat behavior and wellbeing. Findings from this study highlight venlafaxine as an effective treatment for a broad spectrum of behavioral disorders in cats, with a noteworthy rate of owner compliance in administering the drug, facilitated by its convenient formulation. Adverse effects were reported in 35.4% of the cats (N=61), they were primarily minor and of short duration. Dosage adjustments based on individual responses and specific behavioral diagnoses improved treatment outcomes and minimized adverse effects. A significant portion of the treated population exhibited substantial behavioral improvement, with 20% (N=35) of cats successfully weaned off the medication without a relapse of clinical signs. Venlafaxine represents a promising pharmacological intervention for behavioral disorders in cats, meriting further investigation in prospective studies. • Venlafaxine proved effective in treating cats diagnosed with behavioral disorders. • High ease of administration and compliance were noted, due to drug's formulation. • Minor side effects were observed in 35.4% of cases, usually short-term. • Venlafaxine's efficacy was notable across a broad range of studied disorders. • Dosage adjustments can be made based on the diagnosed psychological state.