Gabapentin is showing up more often in veterinary care —but that raises an important question:

Is gabapentin toxic in animals?

In this BONUS mailbag episode of Rumor vs Truth, we answer a listener question about gabapentin use in pets. Hosts Don Weinberger, PharmD and Steve Small, PharmD dig into what’s really behind concerns about toxicity—and bring in veterinary toxicology expert Dr. Tina Wismer to help clarify the risks.

Together, they discuss:

Why gabapentin is used in dogs and cats
Where these toxicity concerns come from
The role of xylitol in certain liquid formulations—and why this matters
Why dogs, but not cats, are affected by xylitol
What pharmacists and clinical teams should watch for when dispensing
What pet owners should do if exposure is suspected

No CE credit is available for this bonus episode.
CE credit is available for our full gabapentin episode.

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🎧 Related Episode (CE Available)

Rumor vs Truth: Gabapentin
(The nerve of gabapentin, is it really as safe as we assumed?)
🎧Listen: https://rumorvstruth.buzzsprout.com/episodes/19192704
▶️ Watch: https://youtu.be/0G9FU99me48

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TRC Healthcare Editor Hosts

Steve Small, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, BCCCP, CNSC
Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP

Guest

Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT
- Senior Director, ASPCA Poison Control

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Clinical Resources:

FAQ: Med Considerations for Cats and Dogs

🏷️ Our listeners can get 10% off a new or upgraded subscription with code rvt1026 at checkout.

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Email us: rumorvstruth@trchealthcare.com

The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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