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L-Theanine

Amino Acid Anxiolytic / Nutraceutical
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Amino acid analog from green tea that crosses the BBB and increases GABA, serotonin, and dopamine levels in the brain. Also modulates glutamate receptors and promotes alpha brainwave activity (relaxation without sedation).

At a glance

Class
Amino Acid Anxiolytic / Nutraceutical
Schedule
OTC
Storage
Store at room temperature

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for mild anxiety, noise phobias, and stress
Dose
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline anxiety, vet visit stress, and environmental changes
Dose
25–50 mg/cat
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 — 3

Strength
Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Behavioral responseNo routine monitoring required
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

Anxitane
Composure

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is L-Theanine?
L-Theanine is a amino acid anxiolytic / nutraceutical used in pets. Amino acid analog from green tea that crosses the BBB and increases GABA, serotonin, and dopamine levels in the brain. Also modulates glutamate receptors and promotes alpha brainwave activity (relaxation without sedation).
What is L-Theanine used for in pets?
L-Theanine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for mild anxiety, noise phobias, and stress; Used for feline anxiety, vet visit stress, and environmental changes.
What is the L-Theanine dose for dogs?
For dogs, L-Theanine is typically dosed as follows — Used for mild anxiety, noise phobias, and stress: undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the L-Theanine dose for cats?
For cats, L-Theanine is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline anxiety, vet visit stress, and environmental changes: 25–50 mg/cat PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does L-Theanine need a prescription?
L-Theanine 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
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