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Clonazepam

Benzodiazepine Anticonvulsant / Anxiolytic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Enhances GABA-A receptor function by binding the benzodiazepine allosteric site, increasing chloride channel opening. Potent anticonvulsant with longer duration than diazepam.

At a glance

Class
Benzodiazepine Anticonvulsant / Anxiolytic
Schedule
Controlled Substance
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Adjunct anticonvulsant and anxiolytic
Dose
0.1–1 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline anxiety and adjunct seizure management
Dose
0.1–0.2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12–24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Seizure diaryHepatic enzymes (especially cats)Sedation levelBody weight

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Phenobarbital
moderate
Additive CNS depression. Phenobarbital induces CYP enzymes metabolizing clonazepam, potentially reducing clonazepam levels.
Management: Standard adjunct anticonvulsant combination. May need higher clonazepam dose with phenobarbital. Monitor sedation.

Brands

Other markets

Klonopin
Rivotril

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Clonazepam?
Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine anticonvulsant / anxiolytic used in pets. Enhances GABA-A receptor function by binding the benzodiazepine allosteric site, increasing chloride channel opening. Potent anticonvulsant with longer duration than diazepam.
›What is Clonazepam used for in pets?
Clonazepam is used in veterinary medicine for: Adjunct anticonvulsant and anxiolytic; Used for feline anxiety and adjunct seizure management.
›What is the Clonazepam dose for dogs?
For dogs, Clonazepam is typically dosed as follows — Adjunct anticonvulsant and anxiolytic: 0.1–1 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Clonazepam dose for cats?
For cats, Clonazepam is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline anxiety and adjunct seizure management: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Clonazepam need a prescription?
Clonazepam is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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 →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Benzodiazepine Anticonvulsant / Anxiolytic).

Clorazepate
Prodrug rapidly converted to nordazepam, a long-acting benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor function providing anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects.
dogcat
Lorazepam
Intermediate-acting benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor function. Conjugated directly by glucuronidation (no CYP450 oxidative metabolism) — safer in hepatic disease than diazepam. Potent anxiolytic and anticonvulsant.
dogcat