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Hydroxyzine

Prescription

Antihistamine / Anxiolytic

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

1 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

First-generation piperazine antihistamine with H1-receptor antagonism, anticholinergic properties, and CNS depressant (anxiolytic) effects. Used for allergic dermatitis and anxiety.

At a glance

Class

Antihistamine / Anxiolytic

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for pruritic allergic skin disease, urticaria, and anxiety

Dose

1–2.2 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q8–12h

🐈

Cat

Used for feline allergic skin disease and anxiety

Dose

1–2 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q8–12h

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, protect from light and moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Sedation levelsPruritus responseLong-term: hepatic function

Educational reference only

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Acepromazine

moderate

Both cause CNS depression and have anticholinergic activity. Additive sedation and hypotension.

Management: Reduce doses of both. Monitor for excessive sedation.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Atarax

Vistaril

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Hydroxyzine?

Hydroxyzine is a antihistamine / anxiolytic used in pets. First-generation piperazine antihistamine with H1-receptor antagonism, anticholinergic properties, and CNS depressant (anxiolytic) effects. Used for allergic dermatitis and anxiety.

›What is Hydroxyzine used for in pets?

Hydroxyzine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for pruritic allergic skin disease, urticaria, and anxiety; Used for feline allergic skin disease and anxiety.

›What is the Hydroxyzine dose for dogs?

For dogs, Hydroxyzine is typically dosed as follows — Used for pruritic allergic skin disease, urticaria, and anxiety: 1–2.2 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Hydroxyzine dose for cats?

For cats, Hydroxyzine is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline allergic skin disease and anxiety: 1–2 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Hydroxyzine need a prescription?

Yes. Hydroxyzine 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