Accidentally gave my cat double buprenorphine. Is it an overdose?

This represents a pretty substantial overdose. Corbett got about 2.5 times more than the highest published dose for pain relief. However, it's thought that buprenorphine has a high index of safety, and even large overdoses don't usually cause serious effects. I'm assuming you gave it on the gums ("transmucousally") as that's how it's typically prescribed for pain relief at home in cats. Because of that method of administration, there's no way to remove the drug from his system by inducing vomiting. There is a reversal agent that is somewhat effective, but may have to be given in multiple doses due to the way buprenorphine works. The drug is naloxone, and your veterinarian should have this drug. Because the signs of overdose can be concerning (vocalization, ataxia, hypersalivation, decreased body temperature, and lethargy) my best recommendation would be for you to take Corbett back to your veterinarian for administration of this drug, so that the overdosage can be averted.

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Gaga will be very sleepy and lethargic after the extra dose of Buprenex but the symptoms should wear off within 6-8hrs. However, in unlikely case that Gaga is overexcited, dysphoric or she is deeply sedated, you should get in touch with your local vets right away.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Littlebit. This can happen when trying to give the medication in the cheek pouch. It may not be as effective as if it was solely absorbed through the gums, but should not cause him any problems. I would just try to give the next dose more slowly so that it only gets in his cheek pouch. I hope this information helps!

Buprenorphine can be given as often as every 6 hours, but it's typically prescribed to be given every 8 hours. It can be difficult to know for sure whether a cat's in pain, but I would look for signs like a relaxed posture, not hiding, interest in food and attention as signs that Kiki is comfortable. If you give it every 6 hours you can be pretty confident that it's doing it's job.

I am not sure how you are able to tell that he hasn't slept for 24 hrs unless you are also up yourself the entire time. Chances are he has slept somewhat, but these are still concerning symptoms that he may be having an adverse reaction to the medicaiton or that a lower dose is needed for him. Also it is concerning if he hasn't gone potty. Male neutered cats can get urinary blockages which causes them to be very vocal, lethargic and strain to urinate. I would advise taking him to your local vet right away for an evaluation and potentially stopping his medication until he is deemed healthy enough to proceed with either this medicaiton or an alternative. I hope that Cucho is able to make a full and speedy recovery. Best wishes and take care.

I would follow the recommendations that your vet gave you for the buprenorphine. Overdosage can cause worsening of the disoriented feeling, including extreme lethargy and inability to move. There have not been any published studies on the use of CBD in pets, yet. Anecdotally, some owners that have used it have felt that it helps with pain. There are no safe dosages known, though, so at this time I cannot safely recommend its use. If you feel like Cucho is still in a lot of pain, then I recommend he be seen by an emergency vet. Based on records you might have and the medications that were prescribed, the vet can prescribe additional pain medications to help with his comfort.

Have you been giving him the buprenorphine? This could be making him very lethargic. If he doesnt seem really painful, you may consider stopping the pain meds or giving him a half dose to see if they helps to perk him up a bit. But if he is continuing to be lethargic despite not being on pain medication then I believe he needs to follow up with your vet to ensure nothing else is wrong. I hope he starts to feel better!