What it does
Clopidogrel is a powerful anti-platelet medication commonly prescribed by veterinarians to prevent unwanted blood clots (thrombi) in cats and dogs. It is especially valuable in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a history of aortic thromboembolism (ATE or “saddle thrombus”), or other conditions that increase the risk of life-threatening clot formation. In dogs, it is used for conditions such as immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA), hypercoagulable states, or after certain cardiac procedures.
Key Benefits
- Significantly reduces the risk of arterial thromboembolism in cats (often more effective and better tolerated than aspirin)
- Helps prevent clot formation in high-risk dogs
- Once-daily dosing and easy to administer (¼ of a 75 mg tablet is a common cat dose)
- Generally better gastrointestinal tolerance than aspirin
Common Dosage (always confirm with your vet)
- Cats: 18.75 mg (¼ of a 75 mg tablet) once daily
- Dogs: 1-2 mg/kg once daily (often 75 mg for large dogs, adjusted by weight)
Administration Tips Give with or without food. Can be given whole or crushed and mixed with a small amount of wet food. Use a pill splitter for accurate ¼-tablet dosing in cats.
Possible Side Effects
- Rare but may include: vomiting, decreased appetite, or bleeding (bruising, nosebleeds, blood in stool/urine)
- Contact your vet immediately if you notice any signs of bleeding
Important Notes
- Do not stop suddenly without veterinary guidance
- Regular blood work may be recommended to monitor response and safety
- Keep out of reach of children and never use human prescriptions without veterinary approval
Clopidogrel has become the gold-standard anti-platelet therapy for cats at risk of blood clots and is an essential medication for many cardiac and thrombotic conditions in dogs. Always use under direct veterinary supervision.