03/31/2026
Grooming and vet appointments can be scary and stressful for both our animals and the owners. Veterinary professionals can make our pets have a more enjoyable experience by the use of pre medication prior to appointments. Stress in dogs can present as panting/drooling, trembling, avoidance behaviors such as hiding under chairs, and vocalization. For cats stress can present as hiding, ears flattened to the head, tail tucked, vocalization, and aggression.
There are multiple different types of medications that can be prescribed prior to appointments depending on that specific pet's needs. Some of the most common types of medications used are trazodone, gabapentin, acepromazine, and xanax. Sometimes oral medications will not always be enough to allow staff to work with your pet safely. That is when injectable sedation may be needed to provide care without creating a bad experience. Injectable sedatives are considered safe.
Oftentimes fear is one of the biggest triggers in our pets for aggression. Medication can lower that risk and create a safer environment for not only the staff but for our patients as well. Furthermore quality of care is also improved with use of medication. Some animals are so fearful or stressed to the point where the veterinarian cannot perform a complete physical exam. If we force these scared animals through the exam they will remember and cause negative association and trauma related to the clinic. Extreme stress can also create health risks for patients such as elevated heart rates/blood pressures, overheating, and increased risk during procedures. Cats are particularly prone to illness due to increased stress such as vomiting, inappropriate elimination, and overgrooming leading to skin conditions. Lastly the use of medication supports more humane handling. Instead of needing muzzles, force, or restraint. A calm pet can be handled more gently.
