Polyamine chelator that binds copper in the GI tract (preventing absorption) and in systemic circulation, promoting urinary copper excretion. Alternative to penicillamine for copper storage hepatopathy with fewer side effects.
At a glance
Class
Copper Chelating Agent
Dosing
Used for copper-associated hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers
Feline copper hepatopathy is rare
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
Hepatic enzymes q3 monthsHepatic copper levels (biopsy)CBC (pancytopenia)Iron status with prolonged use
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 Trientine?
Trientine is a copper chelating agent used in pets. Polyamine chelator that binds copper in the GI tract (preventing absorption) and in systemic circulation, promoting urinary copper excretion. Alternative to penicillamine for copper storage hepatopathy with fewer side effects.
›What is Trientine used for in pets?
Trientine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for copper-associated hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers; Feline copper hepatopathy is rare.
›What is the Trientine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Trientine is typically dosed as follows — Used for copper-associated hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers: 10–15 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Trientine dose for cats?
For cats, Trientine is typically dosed as follows — Feline copper hepatopathy is rare: undefined undefined PO N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Trientine need a prescription?
Yes. Trientine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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