Direct smooth muscle relaxant with anticholinergic (antimuscarinic M3) properties that reduces detrusor muscle contractions and increases bladder capacity. Used for urge incontinence and detrusor hyperreflexia.
At a glance
Class
Anticholinergic / Antispasmodic (Urinary)
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Used for urge incontinence, detrusor instability, and reflex dyssynergia
Used for feline lower urinary tract disease with detrusor instability
Safety
Urinary frequency/incontinence episodesUrine output (retention)GI motilityHeart rate
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Oxybutynin?
Oxybutynin is a anticholinergic / antispasmodic (urinary) used in pets. Direct smooth muscle relaxant with anticholinergic (antimuscarinic M3) properties that reduces detrusor muscle contractions and increases bladder capacity. Used for urge incontinence and detrusor hyperreflexia.
›What is Oxybutynin used for in pets?
Oxybutynin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for urge incontinence, detrusor instability, and reflex dyssynergia; Used for feline lower urinary tract disease with detrusor instability.
›What is the Oxybutynin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Oxybutynin is typically dosed as follows — Used for urge incontinence, detrusor instability, and reflex dyssynergia: 1.25–5 mg/dog PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Oxybutynin dose for cats?
For cats, Oxybutynin is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline lower urinary tract disease with detrusor instability: 0.5–1.25 mg/cat PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Oxybutynin need a prescription?
Yes. Oxybutynin 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.
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