Question 1

What is Melatonin used for?

Accepted Answer

Melatonin is indicated for: Alopecia X, anxiety, Cushing's adjunct, Psychogenic alopecia.

Question 2

What routes can Melatonin be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: PO, SC.

Question 3

Which species have cited Melatonin dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Melatonin dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Melatonin a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Melatonin is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Melatonin?

Accepted Answer

Used for alopecia X (hair loss), Cushing's disease adjunct, and reproductive management in ferrets. Avoid xylitol-containing products. Generally very safe.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Melatonin?

Accepted Answer

Used for alopecia X (hair loss), Cushing's disease adjunct, and reproductive management in ferrets. Avoid xylitol-containing products. Generally very safe.

Question 7

How does Melatonin work?

Accepted Answer

Activates MT1 and MT2 receptors. Modulates circadian rhythms, reproductive cyclicity, and coat growth. Anti-adrenal effects via inhibition of cortisol synthesis.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	PO	3–6 mg per dog	q8-12h	Weak	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	PO	1.5–3 mg per cat	q12h	Anecdotal	Papich Handbook of Veterinary Drugs, 5th Ed

Melatonin

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Melatonin dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by 2 published primary sources

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

Upgrade for Full Details