Why Is My Dog Shaking – Shaking or trembling in your dog after taking gabapentin is often a side effect related to the medication’s impact on the nervous system, such as ataxia (loss of coordination), sedation, or mild tremors. This is common, especially when starting treatment, at higher doses, or in sensitive dogs, and it usually improves as the body adjusts or with dose changes. Gabapentin is generally safe when prescribed by a vet for pain, anxiety, or seizures, but monitor closely and contact your veterinarian if shaking persists or worsens.
Why This Happens – Why Is My Dog Shaking
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and pain medication commonly used in dogs for chronic nerve pain (like arthritis), post-surgery discomfort, or anxiety. It works by calming overactive nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
Shaking can occur because gabapentin affects coordination and balance, leading to ataxia — a wobbly, unsteady feeling that some owners describe as trembling or shivering. This is one of the most reported side effects, alongside sedation. It often appears shortly after dosing, is more noticeable at higher amounts or when first starting, and tends to be temporary (often resolving within 24 hours or as the dog adapts). In some cases, it may stem from dizziness, weakness in the limbs, or mild tremors. Less commonly, it could relate to other factors like underlying pain, anxiety rebound, or interactions with other meds, but gabapentin itself is a frequent culprit based on veterinary reports.
Common Side Effects
- Sedation or excessive sleepiness/lethargy
- Ataxia (wobbliness, unsteady gait, loss of coordination)
- Shaking, trembling, or mild tremors
- Dizziness or weakness (especially in the hind legs)
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite)
- Rarely: agitation, panting, or clinginess
These effects are usually mild and transient, but they can be more pronounced in older dogs, those with kidney/liver issues, or at higher doses.
When Should You Call a Vet?
Contact your veterinarian right away if your dog shows any of these signs, as they could indicate a more serious issue or need for dose adjustment:
- Severe or persistent shaking/trembling that doesn’t improve
- Inability to walk, frequent falling, or extreme unsteadiness
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat/drink
- Excessive drooling, confusion, or disorientation
- Difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, or collapse
- Signs lasting more than 24 hours or worsening over time
Your vet may lower the dose, switch medications, or check for other causes like pain flare-ups or organ function.
What You Should Not Do
- Never increase or decrease the dose on your own — always follow your vet’s instructions exactly.
- Avoid giving human formulations of gabapentin (some contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs).
- Don’t stop gabapentin abruptly without vet guidance, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms like agitation or increased tremors in some cases.
- Skip combining it with other sedatives or pain meds unless approved, to prevent amplified side effects.
- Don’t ignore mild shaking thinking it will “just go away” if it’s severe or accompanied by other symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about Why Is My Dog Shaking After Gabapentin?
Is shaking normal after gabapentin in dogs?
Yes, mild shaking or trembling is a reported side effect, often tied to ataxia or sedation, and it frequently resolves as your dog adjusts.
How long do gabapentin side effects last in dogs?
Most side effects, including shaking, peak shortly after dosing and fade within 24 hours. They may lessen over a few days with continued use.
Can I give my dog something for the shaking?
No — consult your vet first. They might adjust the gabapentin dose or suggest supportive care, but self-treating can worsen issues.
Is gabapentin safe for long-term use in dogs?
No — consult your vet first. They might adjust the gabapentin dose or suggest supportive care, but self-treating can worsen issues.
References • Why Is My Dog Shaking
ToeGrips.com – Gabapentin Side Effects in Dogs (Veterinarian-authored guide by Dr. Julie Buzby, DVM) • AKC.org – Gabapentin for Dogs: Uses, Side Effects, and Alternatives • Wedgewood Pharmacy – Gabapentin for Pets (veterinary medication resource) • PetMD – Gabapentin for Dogs: What You Need to Know. Why Is My Dog Shaking After Gabapentin?
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Written by Dimitar Atanasov MPharm – Educational content only. Not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance on your dog’s health and medications.
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