This content was reviewed by a veterinary professional to answer your most common questions about this topic. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet. No writer or qualified reviewer has received any compensation from the manufacturer of any medication as part of creating this article.
Whether it’s due to car sickness or eating some unfathomable source of nastiness on your morning walk, seeing your dog vomit is worrisome (and messy).
Fortunately, medications like Cerenia® can help combat nausea and vomiting in dogs, so your pup can enjoy their car rides or their day more comfortably.
We spoke to veterinarians to learn all about Cerenia® for dogs, including how it works, how to give it to your dog, potential side effects, and risk factors.
In This Guide:
What Is Cerenia®, and How Is It Used in Dogs?
Cerenia® (maropitant citrate) is an FDA-approved antiemetic medication that’s used to prevent vomiting caused by motion sickness (such as car sickness) or a new or sudden onset of vomiting (acute vomiting) due to other causes.
In a 2012 study of dogs riding in cars, researchers found that 24.5% frequently experience excessive drooling (hypersalivation) and 18% frequently vomit.
According to Bethany Hsia, DVM, co-founder of CodaPet in Fresno, California, a vet might also prescribe Cerenia® due to acute vomiting triggered by conditions such as:
- Eating something (food, treat, foreign material) that causes tummy upset (dietary indiscretion)
- Nausea after anesthesia or surgery (post-operative)
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Gastroenteritis
- Chemotherapy side effects
- Acid reflux
- Internal issues such as kidney disease or liver disease
Paige Adams, DVM, medical director at Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Marietta, Georgia, says that Cerenia® is a very commonly used medication for preventing motion sickness and vomiting.
She notes that it’s also been found to have some anti-coughing properties. As such, some vets prescribe Cerenia® off-label for collapsing trachea and other conditions that trigger coughing.
Off-label use refers to the practice of prescribing a medication for a purpose different from what it was originally approved for by regulatory agencies like the Food and Drug Administration.
Can Cerenia® Be Used for Puppies?
Cerenia® can be given to puppies 2 months and older to prevent acute vomiting and to puppies 4 months and older to prevent vomiting from car sickness.
This is good news, as many vets agree that puppies tend to experience car sickness more frequently than older dogs.
Additionally, puppies are often new to the experience of car rides, which can increase their anxiety and stress, further contributing to nausea.
How Does Cerenia® Work?
To understand how Cerenia® can help prevent vomiting in dogs, you first need a crash course on the vomit control center of the brain.
This area, known as the emetic center, is responsible for detecting signals that trigger nausea and vomiting. Creating a “vomit signal” involves a neurotransmitter called substance P binding to neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptors in the brain.
Hsia says Cerenia® works by blocking these NK1 receptors, so that substance P can’t bind to them. As a result, the brain is unable to get the “become nauseated and throw up” memo, and your pup remains nausea-free.
How Do You Give Your Dog Cerenia®?
Cerenia® is typically given by mouth as a tablet, or a veterinarian will sometimes give Cerenia® as an injection under the dog’s skin.
Whether given as an oral tablet or by injection, Cerenia® takes effect in one to two hours and it is effective for about 24 hours.
To give your dog a Cerenia® tablet, try hiding it in a pill pocket and make sure you give them a small amount of food (but not a full meal) about two hours before you hit the road.
You can follow this routine for two days in a row for motion sickness.
For acute vomiting, puppies 2–7 months old can be given Cerenia® once daily for up to five days in a row. Dogs older than 7 months can take this medication for as long as their vet prescribes it.
Dosages will vary depending on your dog’s age and size.
Carefully follow your vet’s prescribing instructions to minimize the risk of side effects.
What Are the Side Effects of Cerenia® for Dogs?
While Cerenia® is generally safe and effective for managing nausea and vomiting in dogs, it can have some potential side effects.
It’s essential to be aware of these so you can consult your veterinarian if any issues arise.
Although still rare, the most common side effects include:
- Excessive drooling
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Injection site reaction (swelling, pain upon injection)
What To Do If Your Dog Takes Too Much Cerenia®
“It is quite difficult to overdose this medication, as it has a very high safety profile,” says Dr. Adams. While it’s possible to take too much, the effects are typically not serious and can be managed well with supportive care, she explains.
If your dog took more Cerenia® than your vet prescribed or is displaying side effects after taking any amount of Cerenia®, call your vet to discuss your dog’s symptoms.
You can also call an animal poison control center such as the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 for advice. Consultation fees often apply.
FAQs about Cerenia® for Dogs
Q: When should Cerenia® not be used?
A: Cerenia® should not be used in dogs who have ingested toxins, have a gastrointestinal obstruction, or are under 2 months old.
It should be used with caution in dogs who are pregnant, nursing, or experiencing heart or liver disease.
Additionally, Cerenia® should not be used in puppies under 4 months old when using it to prevent motion sickness, as the higher dose required to prevent motion sickness has been associated with low blood cell counts (bone marrow suppression).
Q: What are the signs that my dog might need Cerenia®?
A: Signs that your dog might need Cerenia® include motion sickness during car rides, which can include restlessness, drooling, or vomiting.
Cerenia® may also be appropriate for acute vomiting in some situations. If your dog suddenly starts vomiting, consult with your veterinarian to determine if Cerenia® is right for your dog.
Q: Can Cerenia® be used for cats?
A: At this time, only the injectable form of Cerenia® is FDA-approved to prevent acute vomiting in cats.
However, Cerenia® tablets are frequently prescribed by vets off-label for cats to prevent vomiting. Off-label use refers to the practice of prescribing a medication for a purpose different from what it was originally approved for by regulatory agencies like the FDA.
It’s important to note that dosing guidelines for cats differ from dogs. Speak with your veterinarian for specific instructions.
It’s reassuring to know that Cerenia® is available to nip car sickness in the bud, but it’s not the only tool in the car sickness toolkit.
Learn what else you can do to help your pup feel more comfortable on the road.
Plus, dig into our articles on vomiting in puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs so you’re prepared, no matter what the cause.
Expert input provided by Bethany Hsia, DVM, co-founder of CodaPet in Fresno, California; and Paige Adams, DVM, Medical Director at Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Marietta, Georgia.
This content was medically reviewed by Chewy vets.
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