NACA Animal Control Officers Practice Test

What is the primary purpose of Trazodone in veterinary practice?

1. Post-surgical recovery

2. To induce anesthesia

3. Pain management

4. Anxiety treatment

The correct answer is: Anxiety treatment

Trazodone is primarily used in veterinary practice for anxiety treatment. It is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor that works by altering the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps to alleviate anxiety in animals. This medication is particularly helpful for pets that experience anxiety due to separation, loud noises, or changes in their environment. It can also be employed to help calm animals prior to events such as traveling, vet visits, or grooming, making it a valuable tool for managing anxiety-related behaviors. In comparison, while post-surgical recovery is important in veterinary care, Trazodone is not specifically designed for this purpose. Inducing anesthesia is also a very different process involving other classes of medications specifically designed for sedation and analgesia. Similarly, while pain management is crucial in veterinary practice, Trazodone does not serve this role; other medications are typically prescribed for effective pain relief. Thus, Trazodone's main application is clearly in treating anxiety.