Trazodone vs Gabapentin: what's the difference?
How Trazodone and Gabapentin compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 3 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Trazodone | Gabapentin | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Trazodone | Gabapentin |
| Brand names | Desyrel | Neurontin |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Eases anxiety and fear in dogs (separation anxiety, fireworks, vet visits, travel, crate rest) and is used before vet visits in cats. [1] | Treats chronic pain, especially nerve pain, and seizures, usually with other medicines. In cats it is also widely used to ease fear before vet visits. [2] |
| How it works | It raises serotonin activity in the brain, which has a calming, sedating effect. [1] | It calms overactive nerve signals in the brain and spinal cord. [2] |
| Common side effects | Usually mild: sleepiness, dilated pupils, vomiting or wobbliness. Rarely more agitation. [1] | Sleepiness and wobbliness are the main ones. Vets often start low and build up to limit them. [2] |
| Use with care | Not with MAOIs such as selegiline or amitraz tick collars. Tell your vet about other serotonin drugs such as fluoxetine or tramadol. [1] | Use caution in pets with kidney disease. Don't stop it suddenly if your pet takes it for seizures. The human liquid can contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. [2] |
| Typical price | No reliable published price | Gabapentin for a dog, at a pharmacy: $4–$10 a month [3] |
| Full guide | Trazodone guide | Gabapentin guide |
Key differences
- They belong to different medicine groups on our site: Trazodone: anxiety & behavior; Gabapentin: pain & arthritis.
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 Trazodone to Gabapentin is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Trazodone and Gabapentin?
Both are used to ease fear before vet visits. Trazodone works on serotonin; gabapentin calms nerve signals and also treats pain.
Is Trazodone better than Gabapentin?
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 Trazodone and Gabapentin 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 Trazodone and Gabapentin need a prescription?
Trazodone: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Gabapentin: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
How much do Trazodone and Gabapentin cost?
Trazodone: no reliable published price. Gabapentin: Gabapentin for a dog, at a pharmacy $4–$10 a month. Prices vary by pet size, pharmacy and clinic.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.