Fluoxetine vs Clomipramine: what's the difference?
How Fluoxetine and Clomipramine compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 2 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Fluoxetine | Clomipramine | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Fluoxetine | Clomipramine |
| Brand names | Reconcile, Prozac | Clomicalm |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Treats behavior problems; the FDA-approved dog form is labeled for separation anxiety. [1] | Treats separation anxiety and compulsive behaviors in dogs, and urine spraying and compulsive behavior in cats. [2] |
| How it works | An SSRI: it raises serotonin over several weeks to lower anxiety. [1] | A tricyclic antidepressant that boosts serotonin and norepinephrine. [2] |
| Common side effects | Sleepiness and low appetite are common; vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, restlessness and panting. Cats may be irritable. [1] | Constipation, diarrhea, trouble urinating, dry mouth, low appetite, tiredness and vomiting. Cats are more sensitive. [2] |
| Use with care | Not for pets with seizures or on MAOIs. It can take a few weeks to see the full effect. [1] | Not with MAOIs (including amitraz collars) or in pets with seizures. [2] |
| Full guide | Fluoxetine (Prozac, Reconcile) guide | Clomipramine (Clomicalm) guide |
Key differences
On the basics they are alike: same kind of animal, same way to get them. The differences are in how they work and what else they cover, shown in the table above.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Fluoxetine to Clomipramine is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Fluoxetine and Clomipramine?
Both are daily behavior medicines for separation anxiety. Fluoxetine is an SSRI; clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant.
Is Fluoxetine better than Clomipramine?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Fluoxetine and Clomipramine together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Fluoxetine and Clomipramine need a prescription?
Fluoxetine: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Clomipramine: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.