Episode 117 – Melatonin

This was such an interesting episode to record and one that certainly left me with more questions than answers.

In response to a question posed by a listener, I did a bit of a deep dive into melatonin, which resulted in some very interesting findings…

The general consensus about the use of melatonin within the Veterinary Behaviour world is that we simply don't have enough evidence of its anxiolytic or calming properties – both anecdotally as well as in the literature.

I did, however, find some other very interesting uses of melatonin, which I talk about in the episode.

I also chat about the use of melatonin as part of the "Chill Protocol" as described by Costa et.al. in JAVMA, 2023:

Costa, R.S., Jones, T., Robbins, S., Stein, A. and Borns-Weil, S., 2023. Gabapentin, melatonin, and acepromazine combination prior to hospital visits decreased stress scores in aggressive and anxious dogs in a prospective clinical trial. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 261(11), pp.1660-1665.

In summary, melatonin is an extremely interesting neurohormone that has so many incredible effects, however, the jury is still out on its use and effectiveness as an anxiolytic.

It may, however, be a useful agent for canine and feline patients showing sleep-wake-cycle abnormalities due to Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome.

If you'd like to book a 30-minute Vet-Vet or Vet-Pet Care Professional Consultation with me, you can do that right here:

https://calendly.com/trinityvet/teams-and-professionals

If you can't find an appointment time to suit you, please email us at [email protected] to find a time that suits us both!

If you liked this episode of the show, Veterinary Behaviour Chat, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Facebook Group: Join The Veterinary Behaviour Community on Facebook

You can CONNECT with me:

Website: Visit my website

Trinity Veterinary Behaviour Instagram: Follow Trinity Veterinary Behaviour on Instagram

Trinity Veterinary Behaviour Facebook: Join us on Trinity Veterinary Behaviour's Facebook page

Trinity Veterinary Behaviour YouTube: Subscribe to Trinity Veterinary Behaviour on YouTube

LinkedIn Profile: Connect with me on LinkedIn

Thank you for tuning in!