Toxic to cats · Medications

Is NSAIDs toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • bloody vomitus
  • black-tarry stool
  • inappetance
  • lethargy
  • inappropriate urination
  • inappropriate thirst
  • general malaise
  • abdominal pain
  • seizures
  • death

How vets treat it

Call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline immediately for life-saving treatment advice; early treatment is critical and less expensive.

Why it's dangerous

NSAIDs cause harm by inducing severe gastric ulceration and acute kidney failure when ingested in toxic amounts.

Good to know

Human NSAIDs are generally more toxic to pets than veterinary-specific versions; never give any NSAID to a pet without veterinary consultation.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

5-fluorouracil (5-FU) Extreme severity Acetaminophen Extreme severity Ambien Extreme severity Amphetamines Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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