Apoquel for Pets
Apoquel is the brand name for oclacitinib, a prescription medication used to help control allergic itch and atopic dermatitis in dogs. It is FDA-approved for dogs, while use in cats is considered off-label and should only be done under a veterinarian's guidance.
Quick Facts About Apoquel
Drug class
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor.
Common brand name
Apoquel; active ingredient: oclacitinib.
Form
Oral tablets; chewable formulations may also be available.
Species approved for
FDA-approved for dogs 12 months and older. Use in cats is off-label and should only be directed by a veterinarian.
What Apoquel Is Used For
Apoquel is prescribed to control itching associated with allergic dermatitis and to manage atopic dermatitis in dogs. It works by blocking specific JAK pathways involved in itch and inflammation, which helps reduce scratching and skin irritation. Veterinary references describe a rapid onset of action, and manufacturer information notes itch relief can begin within hours in dogs. In cats, Apoquel is not officially approved, but some veterinarians may prescribe it off-label in select cases when they believe the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Side Effects to Watch For
- Common side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and lethargy.
- Some pets may develop increased susceptibility to infections, including skin, urinary, or respiratory infections.
- New skin growths or skin masses should be reported to your veterinarian.
- Contact your vet promptly if your pet develops fever, coughing, trouble breathing, worsening skin lesions, or other signs of infection.
- Allergic or sensitivity reactions can develop over time, even if early doses seemed well tolerated.
- Apoquel should not be used unless specifically directed by a veterinarian in pets with serious infections, certain cancers, or in dogs that are pregnant, nursing, breeding, or younger than 12 months.
Dosing & Administration
Always follow your vet's instructions exactly. Apoquel is given by mouth and may be given with or without food; if stomach upset happens, giving it with food may help. Do not change the schedule, stop the medication, or combine it with other prescriptions unless your veterinarian tells you to. If you miss a dose, give it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose—then skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once. Wash your hands after handling the medication, and call your vet if your pet vomits after a dose, refuses the medication repeatedly, or seems unwell.
When to Call Your Vet
Go to the ER now
- ● Trouble breathing, facial swelling, collapse, or signs of a severe allergic reaction after a dose.
- ● Possible overdose, especially if a pet chews into the container or a cat ingests a dog’s Apoquel medication.
- ● Severe weakness, repeated vomiting, or sudden worsening illness after taking the medication.
See a vet within 24 hours
- ● Persistent vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, or lethargy that does not improve.
- ● Fever, coughing, skin infection, urinary signs, or any other signs of infection.
- ● A new lump, skin mass, or rapidly worsening skin changes.
Watch at home, call if it worsens
- ● Mild stomach upset after starting the medication.
- ● Mild temporary decrease in appetite if your pet is otherwise acting normal.
- ● Expected improvement in itch may take time; keep your vet updated if scratching is not improving as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my dog human allergy medicine instead of Apoquel?
What happens if I miss a dose of Apoquel?
Can my cat take Apoquel?
How quickly does Apoquel start working?
Can Apoquel be used long term?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.