Suggested Oral Sedative Protocols

Oral sedatives administered prior to a pet's ultrasound exam can help relieve the stress of the visit, reduce the time spent performing the ultrasound study and help improve overall study quality. Pre-visit sedatives are strongly encouraged for anxious or nervous pets or those that may demonstrate fearful or aggressive behaviors. Any pre-visit sedatives should be prescribed by a pet's primary care veterinarian as deemed appropriate for the specific patient. Protocols below should only serve as a general guideline.

Cats

Trazadone 50-100mg/cat (not per kg) 1-2 hours prior to arrival
Gabapentin 50-100mg/cat (not per kg) 2-3 hours prior to arrival.
For more anxious and fearful animals, particularly those with concerns for aggression, we suggest also considering injectable medications at the time of appointment.

Dogs

Trazadone 4-10mg/kg PO 1-2 hours prior to arrival (max dose 300/mg/dog)
Gabapentin 10-40mg/kg PO 2 hours prior to arrival (for even more thorough sedation, give an initial dose the evening prior to the appointment).
For more anxious and fearful animals, particularly those with concerns for aggression, we suggest investigating multiagent protocols as well as injectable medications at the time of appointment.