Elura for Cats

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet. 

What Is Elura Used for in Cats?

Elura is an FDA-approved prescription oral medication for cats, used to help manage weight loss associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).  

Cats with kidney disease often lose their appetite, resulting in them progressively losing weight. ​​Studies show that low body weight is associated with shorter survival times in cats with CKD. 

Elura contains capromorelin, which helps stimulate appetite in cats and help them safely regain fat and muscle. ​​Clinical studies showed that more than 80% of cats with CKD maintained their weight or gained weight while taking Elura. 

Elura Considerations for Cats

Speak with your veterinarian about whether Elura is right for your cat. Elura should not be used in cats with a known hypersensitivity to capromorelin or in cats with a hormone disorder called hypersomatotropism (​​​​acromegaly). 

Elura should be used with caution in cats with heart disease, severe dehydration, or liver dysfunction. The safe use of Elura has not been evaluated in cats younger than 5 months old, and cats that are breeding, pregnant, or nursing. 

How Does Elura Work in Cats?

Elura works by activating ghrelin (the “hunger hormone”) receptors in the cat’s brain, making the cat feel hungry, which helps stimulate the cat’s appetite and increase growth hormone production. 

How Do You Give Elura to Cats?

Follow the administration directions on the drug label closely or as directed by your veterinarian. 

• Elura is given by mouth once daily using the included oral dosing syringe. 

• Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dose based on your cat’s body weight. 

• The bottle doesn’t need to be shaken. Withdraw the appropriate amount of solution using the provided syringe and administer directly into your cat’s mouth.  

• Rinse the syringe and plunger with water between treatment doses and leave apart to dry. 

• Wash hands immediately after use. 

• Give Elura on an empty stomach, then feed your cat 30 minutes after dosing. Elura should not be mixed with your cat’s food. 

• If your cat vomits within 15 minutes or only receives a partial dose, then re-administer Elura. 

What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Elura? 

If you miss a dose of Elura, contact your veterinarian for guidance. They may recommend giving the dose when you remember or skipping it if it’s close to the next scheduled dose. In most cases, do not give extra or double doses. 

What Are the Side Effects of Elura in Cats?

Side effects in cats may include: 

• Diarrhea 

• Vomiting 

• Drooling 

• Abdominal pain 

• Increased thirst 

• Lethargy 

Additional side effects of Elura in cats may include: 

• Loss of appetite 

• Changes in behavior 

• Anemia (low red blood cell count) 

• Dehydration 

If you believe your cat may be experiencing any side effects, consult your veterinarian. 

Human Side Effects 

This medication is not approved for use in humans. Because Elura may be absorbed through the skin, wash hands immediately after use. 

If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, immediately seek medical attention or call the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222. 

Monitoring Your Pet 

Elura mimics the effects of the naturally occurring hormone ghrelin, which influences multiple systems in the body. Your veterinarian may recommend monitoring your cat for changes in thirst or water intake, lethargy or weakness, digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or decreased appetite), or behavior changes. 

Typically, no specific monitoring is required for Elura. However, your veterinarian may recommend routine testing based on your cat’s needs, other medications, or the condition being treated.  

Tracking your cat’s appetite, food intake, and body weight may help monitor their response to treatment. 

​​When Should You Call Your Veterinarian?​​​ 

​​​​Call your veterinarian if you see any of the following, or if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of Elura:​​​​​ 

• Severe side effects are seen (see above) 

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment 

• ​​You see or suspect an overdose

What Happens If a Pet Overdoses on Elura?

Cats who receive overdoses of Elura may experience vomiting, drooling, and lethargy. 

If you suspect an overdose, immediately seek emergency veterinary care or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply. 

• Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 

How Should Elura Be Stored for Cats?

• Elura should be stored at controlled room temperature at or below 86 F (30 C). 

• Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. 

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.