{"status":"ok","message-type":"work","message-version":"1.0.0","message":{"indexed":{"date-parts":[[2026,5,18]],"date-time":"2026-05-18T14:29:41Z","timestamp":1779114581437,"version":"3.51.4"},"reference-count":64,"publisher":"American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)","issue":"6","content-domain":{"domain":[],"crossmark-restriction":false},"short-container-title":["javma"],"published-print":{"date-parts":[[2026,6,1]]},"abstract":"<jats:title>Abstract<\/jats:title>\n                  <jats:sec>\n                    <jats:title>Objective<\/jats:title>\n                    <jats:p>To evaluate the efficacy of preoperative gabapentin on stress, tolerance to handling, and pain in shelter cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy (OVH).<\/jats:p>\n                  <\/jats:sec>\n                  <jats:sec>\n                    <jats:title>Methods<\/jats:title>\n                    <jats:p>34 healthy female cats were randomized to receive liquid gabapentin (20 mg\/kg) or a placebo PO, 2 to 4 hours prior to anesthesia and surgery. Cats were scored by 2 masked individuals for stress, sedation, tolerance to handling, and pain using the cat stress score, feline multiparametric sedation score, a previously published handling score, and the Feline Grimace Scale (FGS). Scores were assigned prior to the first dose of medication, at anesthetic induction, and 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes after recovery. Data were analyzed with a linear mixed model to evaluate the effect of treatment, time, and treatment by time interaction.<\/jats:p>\n                  <\/jats:sec>\n                  <jats:sec>\n                    <jats:title>Results<\/jats:title>\n                    <jats:p>There was no evidence of a difference between treatment groups or treatment by time for any outcome measure. Cat stress score decreased and tractability score increased at 30 minutes after recovery in both treatments. Sedation score was higher than baseline at 30 to 90 minutes after recovery in both treatments. Cats treated with gabapentin had an increased FGS score at 30 to 90 minutes, and those that received placebo had an increased FGS score at 30 and 60 minutes. No cat required rescue analgesia at any time point.<\/jats:p>\n                  <\/jats:sec>\n                  <jats:sec>\n                    <jats:title>Conclusions<\/jats:title>\n                    <jats:p>The use of gabapentin in shelter cats presenting for OVH did not significantly decrease stress or pain or increase ease of handling perioperatively.<\/jats:p>\n                  <\/jats:sec>\n                  <jats:sec>\n                    <jats:title>Clinical Relevance<\/jats:title>\n                    <jats:p>The results suggest a lack of evidence for gabapentin decreasing stress or providing perioperative analgesia when administered prior to anesthesia and surgery for OVH in shelter cats.<\/jats:p>\n                  <\/jats:sec>","DOI":"10.2460\/javma.25.07.0480","type":"journal-article","created":{"date-parts":[[2026,1,14]],"date-time":"2026-01-14T16:38:38Z","timestamp":1768408718000},"page":"724-729","source":"Crossref","is-referenced-by-count":0,"title":["Evaluation of the effects of gabapentin on stress and pain in shelter cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy"],"prefix":"10.2460","volume":"264","author":[{"given":"Taryn","family":"Harris","sequence":"first","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Emily","family":"Reger","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Stephanie","family":"Kleine","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Rebekah","family":"DeBolt","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Staci","family":"Cannon","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Jennifer","family":"Weisent","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Meghan","family":"Seabolt","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]},{"given":"Rachel","family":"Reed","sequence":"additional","affiliation":[{"name":"Department of Large Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA"}],"role":[{"role":"author","vocabulary":"crossref"}]}],"member":"1272","reference":[{"key":"ref1","article-title":"U.S. animal shelter statistics","author":"ASPCA","unstructured":"ASPCA. U.S. animal shelter statistics. https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/helping-shelters-people-pets\/us-animal-shelter-statistics"},{"key":"ref2","series-title":"Appl Anim Behav Sci.","first-page":"94","article-title":"Environmental factors that affect the behavior and welfare of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) housed in cages","volume":"160","author":"Stella J","year":"2014","unstructured":"Stella J, Croney C, Buffington T. Environmental factors that affect the behavior and welfare of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) housed in cages. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2014;160:94\u2013105. doi:10.1016\/j.applanim.2014.08.006"},{"issue":"S1","key":"ref3","series-title":"J Shelter Med Community Anim Health.","first-page":"38","article-title":"The Association of Shelter Veterinarians\u2019 Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters: second edition","volume":"1","author":"DeTar L","year":"2022","unstructured":"DeTar L, Doyle E, O\u2019Quin J,  The Association of Shelter Veterinarians\u2019 Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters: second edition. J Shelter Med Community Anim Health. 2022;1(S1):38, 46. doi:10.56771\/ASVguidelines.2022"},{"issue":"4","key":"ref4","series-title":"Vet Surg.","first-page":"351","article-title":"Analgesic effect of the transdermal fentanyl patch during and after feline ovariohysterectomy","volume":"30","author":"Glerum LE","year":"2001","unstructured":"Glerum LE, Egger CM, Allen SW, Haag M. Analgesic effect of the transdermal fentanyl patch during and after feline ovariohysterectomy. Vet Surg. 2001;30(4):351\u2013358. doi:10.1053\/jvet.2001.24387"},{"issue":"4","key":"ref5","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"548","article-title":"Assessment of stress levels among cats in four animal shelters","volume":"226","author":"McCobb EC","year":"2005","unstructured":"McCobb EC, Patronek GJ, Marder A, Dinnage JD, Stone MS. Assessment of stress levels among cats in four animal shelters. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2005;226(4):548\u2013555. doi:10.2460\/javma.2005.226.548"},{"issue":"2","key":"ref6","series-title":"Appl Anim Behav Sci.","first-page":"143","article-title":"Behavioral and physiological correlates of stress in laboratory cats","volume":"38","author":"Carlstead K","year":"1993","unstructured":"Carlstead K, Brown JL, Strawn W. Behavioral and physiological correlates of stress in laboratory cats. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 1993;38(2):143\u2013158. doi:10.1016\/0168-1591(93)90062-T"},{"issue":"1","key":"ref7","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"67","article-title":"Sickness behaviors in response to unusual external events in healthy cats and cats with feline interstitial cystitis","volume":"238","author":"Stella JL","year":"2011","unstructured":"Stella JL, Lord LK, Buffington CA. Sickness behaviors in response to unusual external events in healthy cats and cats with feline interstitial cystitis. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2011;238(1):67\u201373. doi:10.2460\/javma.238.1.67"},{"issue":"2\u20134","key":"ref8","series-title":"Appl Anim Behav Sci.","first-page":"157","article-title":"Effects of stressors on the behavior and physiology of domestic cats","volume":"143","author":"Stella J","year":"2013","unstructured":"Stella J, Croney C, Buffington T. Effects of stressors on the behavior and physiology of domestic cats. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2013;143(2\u20134):157\u2013163. doi:10.1016\/j.applanim.2012.10.014"},{"issue":"5","key":"ref9","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"570","article-title":"Associations among weight loss, stress, and upper respiratory tract infection in shelter cats","volume":"240","author":"Tanaka A","year":"2012","unstructured":"Tanaka A, Wagner DC, Kass PH, Hurley KF. Associations among weight loss, stress, and upper respiratory tract infection in shelter cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2012;240(5):570\u2013576. doi:10.2460\/javma.240.5.570"},{"issue":"1","key":"ref10","series-title":"Immunol Allergy Clin North Am.","first-page":"81","article-title":"The impact of psychological stress on wound healing: methods and mechanisms","volume":"31","author":"Gouin JP","year":"2011","unstructured":"Gouin JP, Kiecolt-Glaser JK. The impact of psychological stress on wound healing: methods and mechanisms. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2011;31(1):81\u201393. doi:10.1016\/j.iac.2010.09.010"},{"issue":"5","key":"ref11","series-title":"Braz J Anesthesiol.","first-page":"567","article-title":"Associations between postoperative analgesic consumption and distress tolerance, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing: a prospective observational study","volume":"72","author":"Tapar H","year":"2022","unstructured":"Tapar H, \u00d6zsoy Z, Balta MG, Da\u015f\u0131ran F, Tapar GG, Karaman T. Associations between postoperative analgesic consumption and distress tolerance, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing: a prospective observational study. Braz J Anesthesiol. 2022;72(5):567\u2013573. doi:10.1016\/j.bjane.2021.07.007"},{"issue":"11","key":"ref12","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1281","article-title":"Effects of trazodone on behavioral signs of stress in hospitalized dogs","volume":"249","author":"Gilbert-Gregory SE","year":"2016","unstructured":"Gilbert-Gregory SE, Stull JW, Rice MR, Herron ME. Effects of trazodone on behavioral signs of stress in hospitalized dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2016;249(11):1281\u20131291. doi:10.2460\/javma.249.11.1281"},{"issue":"8","key":"ref13","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"876","article-title":"Effects of trazodone on behavioral and physiological signs of stress in dogs during veterinary visits: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial","volume":"260","author":"Kim SA","year":"2022","unstructured":"Kim SA, Borchardt MR, Lee K, Stelow EA, Bain MJ. Effects of trazodone on behavioral and physiological signs of stress in dogs during veterinary visits: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2022;260(8):876\u2013883. doi:10.2460\/javma.20.10.0547"},{"issue":"5","key":"ref14","series-title":"Anaesthesia.","first-page":"451","article-title":"Gabapentin: pharmacology and its use in pain management","volume":"57","author":"Rose MA","year":"2002","unstructured":"Rose MA, Kam PCA. Gabapentin: pharmacology and its use in pain management. Anaesthesia. 2002;57(5):451\u2013462. doi:10.1046\/j.0003-2409.2001.02399.x"},{"key":"ref15","series-title":"J Vet Behav.","first-page":"13","article-title":"Trazodone as a mediator of transitional stress in a shelter: effects on illness, length of stay, and outcome","volume":"36","author":"Abrams J","year":"2020","unstructured":"Abrams J, Brennen R, Byosiere S-E. Trazodone as a mediator of transitional stress in a shelter: effects on illness, length of stay, and outcome. J Vet Behav. 2020;36:13\u201318. doi:10.1016\/j.jveb.2020.01.001"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref16","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"476","article-title":"Use of oral trazodone for sedation in cats: a pilot study","volume":"18","author":"Orlando JM","year":"2016","unstructured":"Orlando JM, Case BC, Thomson AE, Griffith E, Sherman BL. Use of oral trazodone for sedation in cats: a pilot study. J Feline Med Surg. 2016;18(6):476\u2013482. doi:10.1177\/1098612X15587956"},{"issue":"2","key":"ref17","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"202","article-title":"Efficacy of a single dose of trazodone hydrochloride given to cats prior to veterinary visits to reduce signs of transport- and examination-related anxiety","volume":"249","author":"Stevens BJ","year":"2016","unstructured":"Stevens BJ, Frantz EM, Orlando JM,  Efficacy of a single dose of trazodone hydrochloride given to cats prior to veterinary visits to reduce signs of transport- and examination-related anxiety. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2016;249(2):202\u2013207. doi:10.2460\/javma.249.2.202"},{"issue":"2","key":"ref18","series-title":"Lab Anim.","first-page":"164","article-title":"Premedication with meloxicam exacerbates intracranial haemorrhage in an immature swine model of non-impact inertial head injury","volume":"46","author":"Friess SH","year":"2012","unstructured":"Friess SH, Naim MY, Kilbaugh TJ, Ralston J, Margulies SS. Premedication with meloxicam exacerbates intracranial haemorrhage in an immature swine model of non-impact inertial head injury. Lab Anim. 2012;46(2):164\u2013166. doi:10.1258\/la.2011.011084"},{"issue":"9","key":"ref19","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1305","article-title":"Daily gabapentin improved behavior modification progress and decreased stress in shelter cats from hoarding environments in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial","volume":"261","author":"Eagan BH","year":"2023","unstructured":"Eagan BH, van Haaften K, Protopopova A. Daily gabapentin improved behavior modification progress and decreased stress in shelter cats from hoarding environments in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2023;261(9):1305\u20131315. doi:10.2460\/javma.23.01.0044"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref20","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"535","article-title":"Use of single-dose oral gabapentin to attenuate fear responses in cage-trap confined community cats: a double-blind, placebo-controlled field trial","volume":"20","author":"Pankratz KE","year":"2018","unstructured":"Pankratz KE, Ferris KK, Griffith EH, Sherman BL. Use of single-dose oral gabapentin to attenuate fear responses in cage-trap confined community cats: a double-blind, placebo-controlled field trial. J Feline Med Surg. 2018;20(6):535\u2013543. doi:10.1177\/1098612X17719399"},{"issue":"10","key":"ref21","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1175","article-title":"Effects of a single preappointment dose of gabapentin on signs of stress in cats during transportation and veterinary examination","volume":"251","author":"van Haaften KA","year":"2017","unstructured":"van Haaften KA, Forsythe LRE, Stelow EA, Bain MJ. Effects of a single preappointment dose of gabapentin on signs of stress in cats during transportation and veterinary examination. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2017;251(10):1175\u20131181. doi:10.2460\/javma.251.10.1175"},{"issue":"11","key":"ref22","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1285","article-title":"Clinical evaluation of the effects of a single oral dose of gabapentin on fear-based aggressive behaviors in cats during veterinary examinations","volume":"259","author":"Kruszka M","year":"2021","unstructured":"Kruszka M, Graff E, Medam T, Masson S. Clinical evaluation of the effects of a single oral dose of gabapentin on fear-based aggressive behaviors in cats during veterinary examinations. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2021;259(11):1285\u20131291. doi:10.2460\/javma.20.06.0307"},{"key":"ref23","series-title":"PeerJ.","first-page":"e8967","article-title":"Clinical applicability of the Feline Grimace Scale: real-time versus image scoring and the influence of sedation and surgery","volume":"8","author":"Evangelista MC","year":"2020","unstructured":"Evangelista MC, Benito J, Monteiro BP,  Clinical applicability of the Feline Grimace Scale: real-time versus image scoring and the influence of sedation and surgery. PeerJ. 2020;8:e8967. doi:10.7717\/peerj.8967"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref24","series-title":"Vet Anaesth Analg.","first-page":"636","article-title":"Assessment of the effects of adjunctive gabapentin on postoperative pain after intervertebral disc surgery in dogs","volume":"39","author":"Aghighi SA","year":"2012","unstructured":"Aghighi SA, Tipold A, Piechotta M, Lewczuk P, K\u00e4stner SB. Assessment of the effects of adjunctive gabapentin on postoperative pain after intervertebral disc surgery in dogs. Vet Anaesth Analg. 2012;39(6):636\u2013646. doi:10.1111\/j.1467-2995.2012.00769.x"},{"issue":"7","key":"ref25","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"751","article-title":"Clinical evaluation of perioperative administration of gabapentin as an adjunct for postoperative analgesia in dogs undergoing amputation of a forelimb","volume":"236","author":"Wagner AE","year":"2010","unstructured":"Wagner AE, Mich PM, Uhrig SR, Hellyer PW. Clinical evaluation of perioperative administration of gabapentin as an adjunct for postoperative analgesia in dogs undergoing amputation of a forelimb. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2010;236(7):751\u2013756. doi:10.2460\/javma.236.7.751"},{"issue":"12","key":"ref26","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"1176","article-title":"Appetite-stimulating effect of gabapentin vs mirtazapine in healthy cats post-ovariectomy","volume":"22","author":"Fantinati M","year":"2020","unstructured":"Fantinati M, Trnka J, Signor A,  Appetite-stimulating effect of gabapentin vs mirtazapine in healthy cats post-ovariectomy. J Feline Med Surg. 2020;22(12):1176\u20131183. doi:10.1177\/1098612X20916391"},{"key":"ref27","series-title":"Front Vet Sci.","first-page":"1137781","article-title":"The standards of reporting trials in pets (PetSORT): explanation and elaboration","volume":"10","author":"Sargeant JM","year":"2023","unstructured":"Sargeant JM, Ruple A, Selmic LE, O\u2019Connor AM. The standards of reporting trials in pets (PetSORT): explanation and elaboration. Front Vet Sci. 2023;10:1137781. doi:10.3389\/fvets.2023.1137781"},{"issue":"1","key":"ref28","series-title":"Sci Rep.","first-page":"5262","article-title":"Agreement and reliability of the Feline Grimace Scale among cat owners, veterinarians, veterinary students and nurses","volume":"11","author":"Evangelista MC","year":"2021","unstructured":"Evangelista MC, Steagall PV. Agreement and reliability of the Feline Grimace Scale among cat owners, veterinarians, veterinary students and nurses. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):5262. doi:10.1038\/s41598-021-84696-7"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref29","series-title":"Can Vet J.","first-page":"603","article-title":"Description and validation of a new descriptive and multiparametric numeric rating scale to assess sedation in cats","volume":"63","author":"Rutherford AA","year":"2022","unstructured":"Rutherford AA, Sanchez A, Monteith G, Tisotti T, Aguilera R, Valverde A. Description and validation of a new descriptive and multiparametric numeric rating scale to assess sedation in cats. Can Vet J. 2022;63(6):603\u2013608."},{"issue":"3","key":"ref30","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"1098612X241230941","article-title":"Evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of grapiprant compared with robenacoxib in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy in a prospective, randomized, masked, non-inferiority clinical trial","volume":"26","author":"Pisack EK","year":"2024","unstructured":"Pisack EK, Kleine SA, Hampton CE,  Evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of grapiprant compared with robenacoxib in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy in a prospective, randomized, masked, non-inferiority clinical trial. J Feline Med Surg. 2024;26(3):1098612X241230941. doi:10.1177\/1098612X241230941"},{"issue":"7","key":"ref31","series-title":"Am J Vet Res.","first-page":"817","article-title":"Pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in cats","volume":"71","author":"Siao KT","year":"2010","unstructured":"Siao KT, Pypendop BH, Ilkiw JE. Pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in cats. Am J Vet Res. 2010;71(7):817\u2013821. doi:10.2460\/ajvr.71.7.817"},{"issue":"8","key":"ref32","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"741","article-title":"Analgesic effects of gabapentin and buprenorphine in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy using two pain-scoring systems: a randomized clinical trial","volume":"20","author":"Steagall PV","year":"2018","unstructured":"Steagall PV, Benito J, Monteiro BP, Doodnaught GM, Beauchamp G, Evangelista MC. Analgesic effects of gabapentin and buprenorphine in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy using two pain-scoring systems: a randomized clinical trial. J Feline Med Surg. 2018;20(8):741\u2013748. doi:10.1177\/1098612X17730173"},{"key":"ref1","article-title":"U.S. animal shelter statistics","author":"ASPCA","unstructured":"ASPCA. U.S. animal shelter statistics. https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/helping-shelters-people-pets\/us-animal-shelter-statistics"},{"key":"ref2","series-title":"Appl Anim Behav Sci.","first-page":"94","article-title":"Environmental factors that affect the behavior and welfare of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) housed in cages","volume":"160","author":"Stella J","year":"2014","unstructured":"Stella J, Croney C, Buffington T. Environmental factors that affect the behavior and welfare of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) housed in cages. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2014;160:94\u2013105. doi:10.1016\/j.applanim.2014.08.006"},{"issue":"S1","key":"ref3","series-title":"J Shelter Med Community Anim Health.","first-page":"38","article-title":"The Association of Shelter Veterinarians\u2019 Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters: second edition","volume":"1","author":"DeTar L","year":"2022","unstructured":"DeTar L, Doyle E, O\u2019Quin J,  The Association of Shelter Veterinarians\u2019 Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters: second edition. J Shelter Med Community Anim Health. 2022;1(S1):38, 46. doi:10.56771\/ASVguidelines.2022"},{"issue":"4","key":"ref4","series-title":"Vet Surg.","first-page":"351","article-title":"Analgesic effect of the transdermal fentanyl patch during and after feline ovariohysterectomy","volume":"30","author":"Glerum LE","year":"2001","unstructured":"Glerum LE, Egger CM, Allen SW, Haag M. Analgesic effect of the transdermal fentanyl patch during and after feline ovariohysterectomy. Vet Surg. 2001;30(4):351\u2013358. doi:10.1053\/jvet.2001.24387"},{"issue":"4","key":"ref5","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"548","article-title":"Assessment of stress levels among cats in four animal shelters","volume":"226","author":"McCobb EC","year":"2005","unstructured":"McCobb EC, Patronek GJ, Marder A, Dinnage JD, Stone MS. Assessment of stress levels among cats in four animal shelters. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2005;226(4):548\u2013555. doi:10.2460\/javma.2005.226.548"},{"issue":"2","key":"ref6","series-title":"Appl Anim Behav Sci.","first-page":"143","article-title":"Behavioral and physiological correlates of stress in laboratory cats","volume":"38","author":"Carlstead K","year":"1993","unstructured":"Carlstead K, Brown JL, Strawn W. Behavioral and physiological correlates of stress in laboratory cats. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 1993;38(2):143\u2013158. doi:10.1016\/0168-1591(93)90062-T"},{"issue":"1","key":"ref7","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"67","article-title":"Sickness behaviors in response to unusual external events in healthy cats and cats with feline interstitial cystitis","volume":"238","author":"Stella JL","year":"2011","unstructured":"Stella JL, Lord LK, Buffington CA. Sickness behaviors in response to unusual external events in healthy cats and cats with feline interstitial cystitis. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2011;238(1):67\u201373. doi:10.2460\/javma.238.1.67"},{"issue":"2\u20134","key":"ref8","series-title":"Appl Anim Behav Sci.","first-page":"157","article-title":"Effects of stressors on the behavior and physiology of domestic cats","volume":"143","author":"Stella J","year":"2013","unstructured":"Stella J, Croney C, Buffington T. Effects of stressors on the behavior and physiology of domestic cats. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2013;143(2\u20134):157\u2013163. doi:10.1016\/j.applanim.2012.10.014"},{"issue":"5","key":"ref9","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"570","article-title":"Associations among weight loss, stress, and upper respiratory tract infection in shelter cats","volume":"240","author":"Tanaka A","year":"2012","unstructured":"Tanaka A, Wagner DC, Kass PH, Hurley KF. Associations among weight loss, stress, and upper respiratory tract infection in shelter cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2012;240(5):570\u2013576. doi:10.2460\/javma.240.5.570"},{"issue":"1","key":"ref10","series-title":"Immunol Allergy Clin North Am.","first-page":"81","article-title":"The impact of psychological stress on wound healing: methods and mechanisms","volume":"31","author":"Gouin JP","year":"2011","unstructured":"Gouin JP, Kiecolt-Glaser JK. The impact of psychological stress on wound healing: methods and mechanisms. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2011;31(1):81\u201393. doi:10.1016\/j.iac.2010.09.010"},{"issue":"5","key":"ref11","series-title":"Braz J Anesthesiol.","first-page":"567","article-title":"Associations between postoperative analgesic consumption and distress tolerance, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing: a prospective observational study","volume":"72","author":"Tapar H","year":"2022","unstructured":"Tapar H, \u00d6zsoy Z, Balta MG, Da\u015f\u0131ran F, Tapar GG, Karaman T. Associations between postoperative analgesic consumption and distress tolerance, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing: a prospective observational study. Braz J Anesthesiol. 2022;72(5):567\u2013573. doi:10.1016\/j.bjane.2021.07.007"},{"issue":"11","key":"ref12","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1281","article-title":"Effects of trazodone on behavioral signs of stress in hospitalized dogs","volume":"249","author":"Gilbert-Gregory SE","year":"2016","unstructured":"Gilbert-Gregory SE, Stull JW, Rice MR, Herron ME. Effects of trazodone on behavioral signs of stress in hospitalized dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2016;249(11):1281\u20131291. doi:10.2460\/javma.249.11.1281"},{"issue":"8","key":"ref13","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"876","article-title":"Effects of trazodone on behavioral and physiological signs of stress in dogs during veterinary visits: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial","volume":"260","author":"Kim SA","year":"2022","unstructured":"Kim SA, Borchardt MR, Lee K, Stelow EA, Bain MJ. Effects of trazodone on behavioral and physiological signs of stress in dogs during veterinary visits: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2022;260(8):876\u2013883. doi:10.2460\/javma.20.10.0547"},{"issue":"5","key":"ref14","series-title":"Anaesthesia.","first-page":"451","article-title":"Gabapentin: pharmacology and its use in pain management","volume":"57","author":"Rose MA","year":"2002","unstructured":"Rose MA, Kam PCA. Gabapentin: pharmacology and its use in pain management. Anaesthesia. 2002;57(5):451\u2013462. doi:10.1046\/j.0003-2409.2001.02399.x"},{"key":"ref15","series-title":"J Vet Behav.","first-page":"13","article-title":"Trazodone as a mediator of transitional stress in a shelter: effects on illness, length of stay, and outcome","volume":"36","author":"Abrams J","year":"2020","unstructured":"Abrams J, Brennen R, Byosiere S-E. Trazodone as a mediator of transitional stress in a shelter: effects on illness, length of stay, and outcome. J Vet Behav. 2020;36:13\u201318. doi:10.1016\/j.jveb.2020.01.001"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref16","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"476","article-title":"Use of oral trazodone for sedation in cats: a pilot study","volume":"18","author":"Orlando JM","year":"2016","unstructured":"Orlando JM, Case BC, Thomson AE, Griffith E, Sherman BL. Use of oral trazodone for sedation in cats: a pilot study. J Feline Med Surg. 2016;18(6):476\u2013482. doi:10.1177\/1098612X15587956"},{"issue":"2","key":"ref17","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"202","article-title":"Efficacy of a single dose of trazodone hydrochloride given to cats prior to veterinary visits to reduce signs of transport- and examination-related anxiety","volume":"249","author":"Stevens BJ","year":"2016","unstructured":"Stevens BJ, Frantz EM, Orlando JM,  Efficacy of a single dose of trazodone hydrochloride given to cats prior to veterinary visits to reduce signs of transport- and examination-related anxiety. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2016;249(2):202\u2013207. doi:10.2460\/javma.249.2.202"},{"issue":"2","key":"ref18","series-title":"Lab Anim.","first-page":"164","article-title":"Premedication with meloxicam exacerbates intracranial haemorrhage in an immature swine model of non-impact inertial head injury","volume":"46","author":"Friess SH","year":"2012","unstructured":"Friess SH, Naim MY, Kilbaugh TJ, Ralston J, Margulies SS. Premedication with meloxicam exacerbates intracranial haemorrhage in an immature swine model of non-impact inertial head injury. Lab Anim. 2012;46(2):164\u2013166. doi:10.1258\/la.2011.011084"},{"issue":"9","key":"ref19","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1305","article-title":"Daily gabapentin improved behavior modification progress and decreased stress in shelter cats from hoarding environments in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial","volume":"261","author":"Eagan BH","year":"2023","unstructured":"Eagan BH, van Haaften K, Protopopova A. Daily gabapentin improved behavior modification progress and decreased stress in shelter cats from hoarding environments in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2023;261(9):1305\u20131315. doi:10.2460\/javma.23.01.0044"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref20","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"535","article-title":"Use of single-dose oral gabapentin to attenuate fear responses in cage-trap confined community cats: a double-blind, placebo-controlled field trial","volume":"20","author":"Pankratz KE","year":"2018","unstructured":"Pankratz KE, Ferris KK, Griffith EH, Sherman BL. Use of single-dose oral gabapentin to attenuate fear responses in cage-trap confined community cats: a double-blind, placebo-controlled field trial. J Feline Med Surg. 2018;20(6):535\u2013543. doi:10.1177\/1098612X17719399"},{"issue":"10","key":"ref21","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1175","article-title":"Effects of a single preappointment dose of gabapentin on signs of stress in cats during transportation and veterinary examination","volume":"251","author":"van Haaften KA","year":"2017","unstructured":"van Haaften KA, Forsythe LRE, Stelow EA, Bain MJ. Effects of a single preappointment dose of gabapentin on signs of stress in cats during transportation and veterinary examination. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2017;251(10):1175\u20131181. doi:10.2460\/javma.251.10.1175"},{"issue":"11","key":"ref22","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"1285","article-title":"Clinical evaluation of the effects of a single oral dose of gabapentin on fear-based aggressive behaviors in cats during veterinary examinations","volume":"259","author":"Kruszka M","year":"2021","unstructured":"Kruszka M, Graff E, Medam T, Masson S. Clinical evaluation of the effects of a single oral dose of gabapentin on fear-based aggressive behaviors in cats during veterinary examinations. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2021;259(11):1285\u20131291. doi:10.2460\/javma.20.06.0307"},{"key":"ref23","series-title":"PeerJ.","first-page":"e8967","article-title":"Clinical applicability of the Feline Grimace Scale: real-time versus image scoring and the influence of sedation and surgery","volume":"8","author":"Evangelista MC","year":"2020","unstructured":"Evangelista MC, Benito J, Monteiro BP,  Clinical applicability of the Feline Grimace Scale: real-time versus image scoring and the influence of sedation and surgery. PeerJ. 2020;8:e8967. doi:10.7717\/peerj.8967"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref24","series-title":"Vet Anaesth Analg.","first-page":"636","article-title":"Assessment of the effects of adjunctive gabapentin on postoperative pain after intervertebral disc surgery in dogs","volume":"39","author":"Aghighi SA","year":"2012","unstructured":"Aghighi SA, Tipold A, Piechotta M, Lewczuk P, K\u00e4stner SB. Assessment of the effects of adjunctive gabapentin on postoperative pain after intervertebral disc surgery in dogs. Vet Anaesth Analg. 2012;39(6):636\u2013646. doi:10.1111\/j.1467-2995.2012.00769.x"},{"issue":"7","key":"ref25","series-title":"J Am Vet Med Assoc.","first-page":"751","article-title":"Clinical evaluation of perioperative administration of gabapentin as an adjunct for postoperative analgesia in dogs undergoing amputation of a forelimb","volume":"236","author":"Wagner AE","year":"2010","unstructured":"Wagner AE, Mich PM, Uhrig SR, Hellyer PW. Clinical evaluation of perioperative administration of gabapentin as an adjunct for postoperative analgesia in dogs undergoing amputation of a forelimb. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2010;236(7):751\u2013756. doi:10.2460\/javma.236.7.751"},{"issue":"12","key":"ref26","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"1176","article-title":"Appetite-stimulating effect of gabapentin vs mirtazapine in healthy cats post-ovariectomy","volume":"22","author":"Fantinati M","year":"2020","unstructured":"Fantinati M, Trnka J, Signor A,  Appetite-stimulating effect of gabapentin vs mirtazapine in healthy cats post-ovariectomy. J Feline Med Surg. 2020;22(12):1176\u20131183. doi:10.1177\/1098612X20916391"},{"key":"ref27","series-title":"Front Vet Sci.","first-page":"1137781","article-title":"The standards of reporting trials in pets (PetSORT): explanation and elaboration","volume":"10","author":"Sargeant JM","year":"2023","unstructured":"Sargeant JM, Ruple A, Selmic LE, O\u2019Connor AM. The standards of reporting trials in pets (PetSORT): explanation and elaboration. Front Vet Sci. 2023;10:1137781. doi:10.3389\/fvets.2023.1137781"},{"issue":"1","key":"ref28","series-title":"Sci Rep.","first-page":"5262","article-title":"Agreement and reliability of the Feline Grimace Scale among cat owners, veterinarians, veterinary students and nurses","volume":"11","author":"Evangelista MC","year":"2021","unstructured":"Evangelista MC, Steagall PV. Agreement and reliability of the Feline Grimace Scale among cat owners, veterinarians, veterinary students and nurses. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):5262. doi:10.1038\/s41598-021-84696-7"},{"issue":"6","key":"ref29","series-title":"Can Vet J.","first-page":"603","article-title":"Description and validation of a new descriptive and multiparametric numeric rating scale to assess sedation in cats","volume":"63","author":"Rutherford AA","year":"2022","unstructured":"Rutherford AA, Sanchez A, Monteith G, Tisotti T, Aguilera R, Valverde A. Description and validation of a new descriptive and multiparametric numeric rating scale to assess sedation in cats. Can Vet J. 2022;63(6):603\u2013608."},{"issue":"3","key":"ref30","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"1098612X241230941","article-title":"Evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of grapiprant compared with robenacoxib in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy in a prospective, randomized, masked, non-inferiority clinical trial","volume":"26","author":"Pisack EK","year":"2024","unstructured":"Pisack EK, Kleine SA, Hampton CE,  Evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of grapiprant compared with robenacoxib in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy in a prospective, randomized, masked, non-inferiority clinical trial. J Feline Med Surg. 2024;26(3):1098612X241230941. doi:10.1177\/1098612X241230941"},{"issue":"7","key":"ref31","series-title":"Am J Vet Res.","first-page":"817","article-title":"Pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in cats","volume":"71","author":"Siao KT","year":"2010","unstructured":"Siao KT, Pypendop BH, Ilkiw JE. Pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in cats. Am J Vet Res. 2010;71(7):817\u2013821. doi:10.2460\/ajvr.71.7.817"},{"issue":"8","key":"ref32","series-title":"J Feline Med Surg.","first-page":"741","article-title":"Analgesic effects of gabapentin and buprenorphine in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy using two pain-scoring systems: a randomized clinical trial","volume":"20","author":"Steagall PV","year":"2018","unstructured":"Steagall PV, Benito J, Monteiro BP, Doodnaught GM, Beauchamp G, Evangelista MC. Analgesic effects of gabapentin and buprenorphine in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy using two pain-scoring systems: a randomized clinical trial. J Feline Med Surg. 2018;20(8):741\u2013748. doi:10.1177\/1098612X17730173"}],"container-title":["Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association"],"original-title":[],"link":[{"URL":"https:\/\/avmajournals.avma.org\/view\/journals\/javma\/264\/6\/javma.25.07.0480.xml","content-type":"text\/html","content-version":"vor","intended-application":"text-mining"},{"URL":"https:\/\/avmajournals.avma.org\/downloadpdf\/journals\/javma\/264\/6\/javma.25.07.0480.xml","content-type":"text\/html","content-version":"vor","intended-application":"syndication"},{"URL":"https:\/\/avmajournals.avma.org\/downloadpdf\/journals\/javma\/264\/6\/javma.25.07.0480.xml","content-type":"unspecified","content-version":"vor","intended-application":"similarity-checking"}],"deposited":{"date-parts":[[2026,5,18]],"date-time":"2026-05-18T13:51:58Z","timestamp":1779112318000},"score":1,"resource":{"primary":{"URL":"https:\/\/avmajournals.avma.org\/view\/journals\/javma\/264\/6\/javma.25.07.0480.xml"}},"subtitle":[],"short-title":[],"issued":{"date-parts":[[2026,6,1]]},"references-count":64,"journal-issue":{"issue":"6"},"URL":"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2460\/javma.25.07.0480","relation":{},"ISSN":["0003-1488"],"issn-type":[{"value":"0003-1488","type":"print"}],"subject":[],"published":{"date-parts":[[2026,6,1]]}}}