Is Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) Safe for Cats?
Why it’s a problem
Cats are particularly sensitive to this class of muscle relaxant, and even one human tablet is a large dose for a small cat. The drug depresses the nervous system and can disturb heart conduction, with signs that may progress for hours. There is no home antidote, so treatment is hospital-based supportive care.
How to keep your pet safe
Keep Flexeril and similar medications in closed cabinets, never loose in purses or on nightstands. Check under furniture for dropped tablets, since cats hunt small objects. Ask your vet about feline-appropriate pain or muscle treatment instead of human pills.
Warning signs to watch for
Profound drowsiness or disorientation, stumbling, drooling, vomiting, slow breathing, tremors, seizures, irregular heartbeat.
When to call the vet
Call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately, before symptoms fully develop. Transport the cat in a secure carrier and keep it warm, since body temperature can drop. Hospital monitoring of heart rhythm and temperature is often needed.
Common questions
How much cyclobenzaprine is dangerous for a cat?
Even a single human tablet can be a dangerous dose for a small cat. Do not try to calculate safety yourself — call a vet or pet poison hotline right after any exposure.
My cat is wobbling and very drowsy after chewing a pill — what is happening?
Those are classic cyclobenzaprine signs, and they can progress to tremors, seizures, and heart problems. Get veterinary help immediately rather than waiting to see if she sleeps it off.
More medications hazards for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).