Paracetamol toxicity and your pets
Paracetamol is a safe and commonly used pain reliever for humans. However, the same is not true for our pets. Cats and dogs are not little humans and paracetamol can be a death sentence for our pets.
Cats – never okay to give paracetamol
Cats are so sensitive to paracetamol that even half a tablet can cause toxicity and one tablet can very sadly, end in death. Paracetamol alters their red blood cells so that they cannot carry oxygen effectively.
Signs of toxicity may not be seen for the first twenty four hours, and can include:
- lethargy
- vomiting
- not eating
- brown to colour gums in mouth
- difficulty breathing
- brown colour to pee
- swelling around face
Dogs – never okay to give paracetamol
Dogs are more sensitive to paracetamol than humans but less than cats. They can suffer from the same signs as cats above, as well as liver failure. Pain relief for your pets should always be under the guidance of a vet. You can chat to one of our vets 24/7.
I’m worried my pet has ingested paracetamol
As paracetamol is rapidly absorbed after ingestion by your pet, it is crucial that you take them to your local vet as soon as possible. This is so they can be urgently decontaminated and treated. The earlier your pet is seen by a vet the better the potential outcome.
Prevention
As always with toxins prevention is key – keep all your medicines safely locked away in sealed containers. Out of the way of naughty paws and curious cats!
Every pet is different
Always speak to a vet when you need advice on pain relief options for your fur kid, and never use paracetamol in cats, or in dogs without consulting a veterinarian.
