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Clonidine

Prescription

Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist (Centrally Acting)

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

3 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Stimulates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brainstem, reducing sympathetic outflow, decreasing peripheral vascular resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure. Also has sedative and anxiolytic properties.

At a glance

Class

Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist (Centrally Acting)

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for noise phobias, anxiety, and adjunct sedation

Dose

0.01–0.05 mg/kg

Route

PO, Transdermal

Frequency

q8–12h

🐈

Cat

Used for feline anxiety and urine spraying

Dose

0.0125–0.025 mg/cat

Route

Frequency

q12h

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 — 2

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Blood pressureHeart rateSedation levelBehavioral response

Educational reference only

Interactions

Major — 2

Dexmedetomidine

major

Both are alpha-2 adrenergic agonists: additive bradycardia, hypotension, and sedation. Profound cardiovascular depression possible.

Management: Do not combine. Allow clonidine to be discontinued before dexmedetomidine sedation.

Propranolol

major

Clonidine withdrawal while on beta-blocker causes severe rebound hypertension (beta-blocker blocks compensatory vasodilation). Also, additive bradycardia during concurrent use.

Management: Never abruptly discontinue clonidine while on beta-blocker. If stopping clonidine, taper beta-blocker first, then taper clonidine slowly.

Moderate — 1

Trazodone

moderate

Both cause sedation and hypotension via different mechanisms. Additive CNS depression.

Management: Often used together for anxiety management. Use lower doses of both. Monitor for excessive sedation and hypotension.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Catapres

Duraclon

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Clonidine?

Clonidine is a alpha-2 adrenergic agonist (centrally acting) used in pets. Stimulates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brainstem, reducing sympathetic outflow, decreasing peripheral vascular resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure. Also has sedative and anxiolytic properties.

›What is Clonidine used for in pets?

Clonidine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for noise phobias, anxiety, and adjunct sedation; Used for feline anxiety and urine spraying.

›What is the Clonidine dose for dogs?

For dogs, Clonidine is typically dosed as follows — Used for noise phobias, anxiety, and adjunct sedation: 0.01–0.05 mg/kg PO/Transdermal q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Clonidine dose for cats?

For cats, Clonidine is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline anxiety and urine spraying: 0.0125–0.025 mg/cat PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Clonidine need a prescription?

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

Educational reference only