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
Storage
Store at room temperature
Dosing
Used for mild anxiety, noise phobias, and stress
Used for feline anxiety, vet visit stress, and environmental changes
Safety
Behavioral responseNo routine monitoring required
Interactions
No documented interactions.
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.
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.
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