Endogenous neurohormone synthesized from serotonin in the pineal gland, regulating circadian rhythm and photoperiod-dependent reproductive cycling. Binds MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors. Has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-anxiety properties.
At a glance
Class
Pineal Hormone / Nutraceutical
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture
Dosing
Used for alopecia X (growth hormone-responsive alopecia), seasonal flank alopeci
Frequency
q8–12h or as needed
Used for psychogenic alopecia, anxiety, and feline cognitive dysfunction
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 →Safety
Hair regrowth at 3–4 months (alopecia)Anxiety scoresSleep quality (CDS)
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.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a pineal hormone / nutraceutical used in pets. Endogenous neurohormone synthesized from serotonin in the pineal gland, regulating circadian rhythm and photoperiod-dependent reproductive cycling. Binds MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors. Has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-anxiety properties.
›What is Melatonin used for in pets?
Melatonin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for alopecia X (growth hormone-responsive alopecia), seasonal flank alopeci; Used for psychogenic alopecia, anxiety, and feline cognitive dysfunction.
›What is the Melatonin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Melatonin is typically dosed as follows — Used for alopecia X (growth hormone-responsive alopecia), seasonal flank alopeci: 3–12 mg PO q8–12h or as needed. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Melatonin dose for cats?
For cats, Melatonin is typically dosed as follows — Used for psychogenic alopecia, anxiety, and feline cognitive dysfunction: 1.5–6 mg/cat PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Melatonin need a prescription?
Melatonin 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