Mirataz Main Uses
Weight Loss Management in Cats: Indicated for the management of weight loss and promotion of body weight gain in cats with poor appetite and unintended weight loss.
Appetite Stimulation: Increases food intake by acting on central appetite-regulating pathways, helping cats that are not eating enough to consume sufficient calories to reverse or slow weight loss.
Associated Conditions: The most common pre-existing conditions in clinical trial cats included renal insufficiency, vomiting, and hyperthyroidism. Mirataz addresses the appetite component while the underlying condition is managed separately.
Cats Only: For topical use in cats only, under veterinary supervision. Not for use in dogs.
 
Mirataz Active Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Mirtazapine USP 2% (w/w), 100 mg per 5g tube.
Inactive Ingredients (Transdermal Vehicle): Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) 400, PEG 3350, Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether, PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Oleyl Alcohol, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Dimethicone, and Dry Flo TS.
Mechanism of Action: The exact mechanism by which mirtazapine induces weight gain has not been clearly elucidated but appears to be multifactorial. Mirtazapine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, nor-adrenergic and serotonergic drug, and a potent antagonist of 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 serotonin receptors and histamine H1 receptors. Mirtazapine is absorbed transdermally through the ear pinna into the bloodstream, where it acts centrally to stimulate appetite without requiring oral administration.
 
Mirataz Dosage & Administration
Dose: Apply a 3.8 cm (1.5-inch) ribbon of ointment (approximately 2 mg mirtazapine) to the inner surface of the cat's ear pinna, once daily for 14 days.
Alternate ears: Switch between the left and right inner pinna with each daily dose to avoid cumulative local irritation.
Do not apply into the external ear canal.
Application steps:
Put on disposable gloves
Apply the measured ribbon to the gloved fingertip
Gently rub the ointment evenly over the inner pinna surface
Dispose of gloves after each application and wash hands with soap and water
Contact restriction: Keep other people and animals away from the treated cat for 2 hours after each application, as mirtazapine can be absorbed transdermally and orally.
Missed dose: Apply Mirataz the following day and resume the daily schedule from that point.
Upon discontinuation: Monitor the cat's food intake closely. If food intake drops by more than 75% for several days, or the cat stops eating for more than 48 hours, reassess with your veterinarian.
Minimum weight and age: Not evaluated in cats under 2 kg or under 7.5 months of age.
 
Mirataz Safety & Side Effects
Common adverse reactions (observed in clinical trials): Application site reactions (redness, hair loss at the treated ear), vomiting, and behavioural changes including vocalization and hyperactivity.
Rebound inappetence: Food intake may decrease after stopping Mirataz. Monitor closely as described above.
Contraindications: Do not use in cats with known hypersensitivity to mirtazapine or any excipient. Do not use concurrently with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (e.g. selegiline hydrochloride (L-deprenyl), amitraz).
Use with caution in cats with hepatic (liver) or kidney disease.
Human safety: Not for human use. Mirtazapine is pharmacologically active in humans. Always wear gloves during application and wash hands thoroughly after. In case of accidental skin or eye exposure, rinse immediately with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats: Safe use has not been evaluated. Consult your veterinarian before use.
Not for use in dogs or other species.
 
Mirataz Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Dechra Veterinary Products Inc., Pointe-Claire, QC (Canadian distributor).
Official Website: https://www.dechra.ca
Brand Introduction: Dechra Veterinary Products is a global specialty veterinary pharmaceutical company with a dedicated Canadian division in Pointe-Claire, Quebec. Mirataz was the first approved transdermal mirtazapine product for cats in North America, developed specifically to address feline weight management with a non-oral delivery route, particularly valuable for cats that are difficult to medicate by mouth.