Pain Meds for Cats: Everything You Need to Know Before Giving Them

Giving human pain medications to cats is highly dangerous and should never be done without veterinary guidance. Medications commonly found in our homes—like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen (Aleve)—aree toxic to cats, even at tiny doses.

Cats simply do not have the liver enzymes needed to break down many drugs that people take every day. Because of this, medicine that’s perfectly safe for you or even for dogs can cause severe, sometimes life-threatening side effects in felines. Human NSAIDs can quickly lead to kidney failure, liver damage, stomach ulcers, or potentially fatal complications for your cat.

Reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, shallow or difficult breathing, swelling around the face or paws, extreme tiredness, or even sudden collapse. With risks like these, it’s essential to always talk to your veterinarian before giving your cat any medication, even over-the-counter painkillers. Your vet can recommend FDA-approved treatments that fit your cat’s needs, protecting their health while providing effective relief.

When it comes to pain relief for cats, veterinarians take extra care to select medications that are both effective and feline-safe. Below, we break down the main categories your vet may recommend, discuss how they work, and outline what’s important to know when these medicines are part of your cat’s care.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed for cats experiencing pain, most commonly after surgery or for short-term relief. NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation, which is particularly helpful for conditions like arthritis and post-operative discomfort.

However, cats process NSAIDs very differently compared to dogs, and most are not safe for feline use. In fact, only a handful are FDA-approved for cats, namely meloxicam and robenacoxib (Onsior). These drugs are carefully dosed and should never be given without veterinary supervision. They’re increasingly used in select cases of chronic pain, though most often they’re a short-term option.

NSAIDs require careful monitoring by your veterinary team. Side effects may include stomach upset, changes in appetite, or effects on kidney and liver health, especially if used long-term. To help keep your cat safe, your veterinarian may ask for regular blood tests during treatment.

Opioids are prescription painkillers sometimes used for moderate to severe pain, especially after surgery or injury, or in cases of cancer. The most well-known medication in feline medicine is buprenorphine, which has a proven safety record and is easy to administer at home, often as a small amount of liquid placed inside the cheek.

Other opioids, like fentanyl or morphine, are typically restricted to short-term, in-clinic situations due to regulation and the risk of side effects. They aren’t used for home care except in specific, vet-supervised cases.

Additional prescriptions, such as gabapentin, are also used—especially for nerve pain or chronic conditions like arthritis. Every medication comes with special considerations for dosing and monitoring, so your veterinarian will carefully match the right drug and dose to your cat’s individual needs.

Recent innovations have expanded the options for feline pain relief. One exciting development is Solensia (frunevetmab), a monoclonal antibody injection that targets proteins involved in chronic pain, particularly due to osteoarthritis. Administered as a monthly shot, it has shown encouraging results with few side effects.

Corticosteroids like prednisolone may help manage some types of inflammatory pain, but due to the possibility of side effects, they’re not suitable for every cat. Some veterinarians may include complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, laser therapy, or joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin), especially for ongoing pain as part of a broader strategy.

With any pain management plan, your veterinarian’s guidance is essential. Talk through every option, understand the benefits and potential risks, and never start or alter a cat’s medication without professional advice. Your cat’s safety and comfort depend on a thoughtful, personalized approach.

While pain medications can bring real comfort to cats in distress, they aren't without their own set of concerns. Before starting any treatment, it's essential to understand the risks and side effects these medicines can pose. Let’s walk through some of the most common issues cat owners should keep on their radar.

Digestive troubles are some of the most frequent side effects linked to pain medications, especially NSAIDs. Cats may experience vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or even develop stomach ulcers. These problems can become more pronounced if medication is used over long periods, given at higher than recommended doses, or if your cat already has a sensitive digestive system.

Watch for repeated vomiting, stools that are dark or tarry, or signs of abdominal pain, as these could point to a more serious issue like gastrointestinal bleeding. If you notice any of these symptoms while your cat is on an NSAID, reach out to your veterinarian right away. Sometimes, giving medication with a small amount of food (when approved by your vet) can help reduce stomach upset, but always use prescriptions exactly as directed by a professional.

Certain medications, including NSAIDs, can put extra strain on the kidneys and liver. Cats have particular metabolic needs, making them more sensitive to these types of medication. Extended use or high doses may pose a risk of damaging the kidneys—particularly in older cats or those already dealing with kidney issues. The liver, which processes many drugs, may also become stressed.

Be alert for signs such as increased thirst or urination, yellowing of the eyes or gums, lack of appetite, or unusual tiredness, as these could suggest organ distress. Your veterinarian may recommend regular bloodwork to track kidney and liver function if your cat needs long-term pain relief. Early detection and quick changes to the treatment plan can make all the difference.

By understanding the possible side effects and staying in communication with your veterinarian, you’re better equipped to keep your cat safe and comfortable. Always stick to approved medications, proper dosing instructions, and regular check-ins to minimize risk while managing your cat’s pain.

Giving pain medications to cats safely calls for patience, careful technique, and a good feel for your cat’s temperament. How you give medication matters—a gentle approach reduces stress, protects against complications, and helps the medicine do its job. Consistent monitoring is the key to catching any unwanted reactions as early as possible.

Oral pain medications aren’t always easy to give to cats, but a thoughtful process helps make it less daunting for both of you. Always follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions, since a cat’s dosage is usually much smaller and requires precise handling compared to other animals.

Common oral pain medications for cats—such as buprenorphine, gabapentin, and approved NSAIDs like Onsior (robenacoxib)—come in either liquid or pill form. Many cats have an easier time with liquid medications, which can sometimes be given “transmucosally” by squirting them inside the cheek, where they absorb through the mouth lining rather than requiring swallowing.

Here are some helpful ways to administer oral pain medicine safely:

• Hide tablets or capsules in a soft treat or a cat-safe pill pocket to mask taste and texture.
  
  

• Use a pill popper or syringe to place the medicine toward the back of the mouth gently, then softly hold your cat’s mouth closed and rub their throat to encourage swallowing.
  
  

• Offer a favorite treat or a sip of water afterward, which can make swallowing easier and help prevent choking.
  
  

Unless your vet says otherwise, never crush pills, as changing the form of medication can affect how your cat’s body absorbs it and may increase the risk of unwanted side effects. Only use pain medications specifically approved for cats, and stick closely to your vet’s directions.

Keeping a close eye on your cat while they’re taking pain medication is essential for their well-being. Even vet-prescribed or FDA-approved meds can affect cats differently, so early action is vital if something seems off.

Look for the following warning signs after starting any pain relief:

• Refusing food or loss of appetite
  
  

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or litter box changes
  
  

• Lethargy or hiding more than usual
  
  

• Agitation or restlessness
  
  

• Jaundice (yellow eyes or gums) or any swelling
  
  

If you spot any of these issues—or other sudden changes— stop giving the medication and contact your veterinarian right away. Keep a daily log of your cat’s eating habits, activity, movement, and anything unusual you notice. Regular check-ins with your vet, plus occasional lab tests if recommended, add another layer of safety throughout your cat’s treatment.

Your cat’s safety depends on thoughtful administration, open communication with your vet, and strict use of approved medications. By staying attentive to these guidelines, you’ll help make pain relief both safer and more comfortable for your feline companion.