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Caffeine

Prescription

Methylxanthine / CNS Stimulant

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

1 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Competitive antagonist at adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, preventing adenosine-mediated CNS depression. Inhibits phosphodiesterase, increasing intracellular cAMP. Stimulates respiration and cardiac output.

At a glance

Class

Methylxanthine / CNS Stimulant

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Primarily for neonatal puppy apnea and respiratory stimulation

Dose

1–2 mg/kg

Route

PO, IV

Frequency

Once or as needed

🐈

Cat

Limited feline data

Dose

1–2 mg/kg

Route

PO, IV

Frequency

Once or q24h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength

—

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Heart rateRespiratory rate (neonates)Neurological signs

Educational reference only

Interactions

Major — 1

Aminophylline

major

Both are methylxanthines with same mechanism (PDE inhibition, adenosine antagonism). Additive toxicity: seizures, tachyarrhythmias, GI irritation.

Management: Do not combine. If switching between methylxanthines, allow washout.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Cafcit

NoDoz

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a methylxanthine / cns stimulant used in pets. Competitive antagonist at adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, preventing adenosine-mediated CNS depression. Inhibits phosphodiesterase, increasing intracellular cAMP. Stimulates respiration and cardiac output.

›What is Caffeine used for in pets?

Caffeine is used in veterinary medicine for: Primarily for neonatal puppy apnea and respiratory stimulation; Limited feline data.

›What is the Caffeine dose for dogs?

For dogs, Caffeine is typically dosed as follows — Primarily for neonatal puppy apnea and respiratory stimulation: 1–2 mg/kg PO/IV Once or as needed. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Caffeine dose for cats?

For cats, Caffeine is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data: 1–2 mg/kg PO/IV Once or q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Caffeine need a prescription?

Yes. Caffeine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
Merck Veterinary Manual
NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database