What has been your experience with Cerenia side effects?

Cats
1

I recently took in a stray cat, and after he started vomiting and having severe diarrhea, I took him to the vet. He received a Cerenia injection to stop the vomiting, but now he’s showing some side effects, like lethargy and a lack of appetite. Has anyone else experienced this with their cat? If so, how long did the side effects last? His X-ray and blood work came back normal, but they found a small amount of Clostridium in his stool, so he’s now on Metronidazole and a probiotic.

2

Misty had Cerenia a few times.

I noticed that the lethargy and lack of appetite seemed more like a reaction to the stress of going to the vet rather than the medication itself. Usually, Cerenia worked within 24 hours, and he was feeling much better after that.

I think when you’re nauseous, a car ride can make it even worse—especially for cats.

Whenever I had to give him oral meds, his mood would stay low due to the ongoing stress.

3

If it continues, I would definitely consider it a possible side effect of the medication. But also keep in mind that it’s very stressful and exhausting for a cat to go to the vet, especially when they’re already feeling sick.

4

I agree with everything Gregory says. I can add that Poppy has been taking Cerenia pills fairly regularly in recent months and has done well on it (meaning very little or no vomiting). However, it does seem to make her a bit lethargic, less hungry, and generally a little “blah.” That said, the hot and humid weather has also been stressful for her and has similar effects.

Personally, I’d be more cautious about the Metronidazole. It’s a very strong medication and can have its own side effects.

I hope your cat feels better soon!

5

Thanks! Yesterday, he slept most of the day and night. Today, he’s up and moving around, though a bit slower than usual. The good news is that there’s no more vomiting, and the diarrhea is improving—it’s more of a pudding consistency now instead of watery.

6

Thanks! Yesterday, he slept most of the day and night. Today, he’s up and moving around, though a bit slower than usual. The good news is that there’s no more vomiting, and the diarrhea is improving—it’s more of a pudding consistency now instead of watery.

That’s good improvement.