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Fexofenadine

Second-Generation Antihistamine (Non-Sedating H1 Blocker)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Non-sedating selective H1-receptor antagonist that does not cross the blood-brain barrier significantly. No anticholinergic activity. No cardiac QT prolongation.

At a glance

Class
Second-Generation Antihistamine (Non-Sedating H1 Blocker)
Schedule
OTC
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Non-sedating alternative for allergic dermatitis and urticaria
Dose
2–5 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12–24h
🐈

Cat

Non-sedating
Dose
Route
PO
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 25°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Pruritus/allergy response
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 →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Allegra
Telfast

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Fexofenadine?
Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine (non-sedating h1 blocker) used in pets. Non-sedating selective H1-receptor antagonist that does not cross the blood-brain barrier significantly. No anticholinergic activity. No cardiac QT prolongation.
What is Fexofenadine used for in pets?
Fexofenadine is used in veterinary medicine for: Non-sedating alternative for allergic dermatitis and urticaria; Non-sedating.
What is the Fexofenadine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Fexofenadine is typically dosed as follows — Non-sedating alternative for allergic dermatitis and urticaria: 2–5 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Fexofenadine dose for cats?
For cats, Fexofenadine is typically dosed as follows — Non-sedating: undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Fexofenadine need a prescription?
Fexofenadine is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
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 →

References

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

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Second-Generation Antihistamine).

Cetirizine
Selective peripheral H1 receptor antagonist; active metabolite of hydroxyzine with minimal CNS penetration, reducing pruritus without significant sedation
dogcat
Loratadine
Non-sedating selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist that does not significantly cross the blood-brain barrier. No anticholinergic activity. Active metabolite desloratadine also contributes to antihistamine effect.
dogcat
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