Weight loss in cats may be an indicator of something more serious. Changes in your cat's appetite, and accompanying weight loss, can be early indicators or underlying diseases such as thyroid, kidney and inflammatory bowel disease. Mirataz (mirtazapine transdermal ointment) is the first and only FDA-approved transdermal medication for the management of weight loss in cats, and can help your cat gain weight. Miratz is a transdermal ointment applied to the inside of your cat's ear. See your veterinarian if you notice symptoms of weight or appetite loss.

Uses

Mirataz (mirtazapine transdermal ointment) is the first and only FDA-approved transdermal medication for the management of weight loss in cats.

Possible Side Effects

The most common adverse reactions included application site reactions, behavioral abnormalities (vocalization and hyperactivity), and vomiting.

Drug & Food Interactions

Mirataz is contraindicated in cats with a known hypersensitivity to mirtazapine of to any of the excipients. Mirataz should not be given in combination or within 14 days before of after treatment with a monoamineoxidase inhibitor (MAOI) [e.g. selegiline hydrochloride(L-deprenyl), amitraz], as there may be an increased risk of serotonin syndrome

Precautions

Do not administer orally or to the eye. Use with caution in cats with hepatic disease. Miratazapine may cause elevated liver enzymes. Use with caution in cats with kidney disease. Kidney diseasemay cause reduced clearance of mirtazapine which may result in higher drug exposure. Upon discontinuation of Mirataz, it is important to montior the cat's food intake. Food intake may lessen after discontinuation of mirtazapine transdermal ointment. If food intake diminishes dramatically (>75%) for several days or if the cat stops eating for more than 48 hours, reevaluate the cat. Mirataz has not been evaluated in cats <2kg or less than 6 months of age. The safe use of MIrataz has not been evaluated in cats that are intended for breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats.