Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 1/18/2006

Question
Hello, I see you specialize in dermatology & ear diseases, but do you know about using cyproheptadine as an appetite stimulant in cats? My 19 yr old was recently prescribed cypro because she'd lost about 1 lb in a week and her appetite had been decreasing. I should also mention that she is a CRF cat, recieving SubQs twice a week. I mangaged to give it to her successfully twice and it really did increase her appetite the first time. I gave it to her again 2 days later and it worked, just not as well. I was told to give her 1/2 tablet once a day. My concern is any problems since she has CRF. Thanks for any info you can provide.

Answer
Cyproheptadine does seem to stimulate appetite in some cats.  In a cat with CRF, they get stomach ulcers and that's why they lose their appetite. Using something that settles the stomach acid like Tagamet or Zantac may also help. Check with your vet for the dose.