ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/melatonin
US brand names:Melatonin
Melatonin is dosed at 3–6 mg per dog PO q8-12h in dogs, per Chapter 9 - Hereditary, Congenital, and Acquired Alopecias. In: Hnilica KA, Patterson AP, eds. Small Animal Dermatology (Fourth Edition). W.B. Saunders; 2017:302-352. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.851 (2026-08-01).. Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Activates MT1 and MT2 receptors. Modulates circadian rhythms, reproductive cyclicity, and coat growth. Anti-adrenal effects via inhibition of cortisol synthesis.
Used for alopecia X (hair loss), Cushing's disease adjunct, and reproductive management in ferrets. Avoid xylitol-containing products. Generally very safe.
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
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A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 2 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | PO | 3–6 mg per dog | q8-12h | Weak | Chapter 9 - Hereditary, Congenital, and Acquired Alopecias. In: Hnilica KA, Patterson AP, eds. Small Animal Dermatology (Fourth Edition). W.B. Saunders; 2017:302-352. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.851 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 1.5–3 mg per cat | q12h | Anecdotal | Papich Handbook of Veterinary Drugs, 5th Ed |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.