Melatonin

Melatonin In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• A hormone which is involved in the neuroendocrine control of seasonal hair loss, although the exact mechanism is not known.

Uses of Melatonin

• Treatment of hair cycling disorders in dogs; in particular, the treatment of alopecia X and seasonal flank alopecia.
• A 4–6 week trial is recommended, if no growth is noted then treatment should be discontinued.
• For seasonal flank alopecia, treatment may have to be repeated the following year.
• The effect of melatonin on hair regrowth in dogs with non-pruritic alopecia of
  unknown aetiology is variable and every effort should be made to identify the underlying disorder before starting this therapy.

Dose of Melatonin in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Hair cycling disorders: 3–6 mg p.o. q8h.

Cats:

• No information is available.

Side Effects of Melatonin in Dogs and Cats

• No information available.

Contraindications of Melatonin in Dogs and Cats

• No information available.

Some Notes: