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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
3

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
PO
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline allergic skin disease and anxiety
Dose
1–2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8–12h

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

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.

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.

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 →