Help, what do I do? I think I just messed up big time with Luna’s medication. So, she has epilepsy and I usually give her Phenobarbital every morning right after breakfast, but today I was super distracted with work stuff and I'm freaking out because I realized I gave it to her twice! It’s been a couple of hours now and she seems kind of groggy and sleepy, which I guess is normal... but I’m worried sick because what if this is bad for her? I tried calling the vet, but the line’s busy and I’m in panic mode over here. Has anyone else gone through this? Can I do anything to help her right now?
Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. Accidentally giving your cat a double dose of Phenobarbital can understandably be quite alarming. Phenobarbital is used to manage seizures, but too much can cause sedation, difficulty walking, or labored breathing.
First, observe your cat closely. Mild overdose symptoms include unsteadiness, lethargy, or drowsiness. In most cases, these will subside as the extra dose works its way out of their system. Encourage your cat to rest in a quiet, comfy spot and make sure they have easy access to water.
However, if you notice more severe signs such as extreme weakness, vomiting, breathing difficulties, or a profound change in behavior, these could signal a serious issue that needs immediate veterinary attention.
Going forward, creating a medication schedule can help prevent this from happening again — a phone alarm or a medication chart can be beneficial for tracking doses.
If you're still worried or see concerning symptoms, it’s best to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We can provide tailored advice and ensure your furry friend stays on the path to wellness.
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