Toxic to dogs · Medications

Is Antidepressants toxic to dogs?

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

Yes. Exposure can cause serious illness and needs prompt veterinary attention.

Symptoms to watch for

  • sedation
  • central nervous system stimulation
  • anorexia
  • lethargy
  • serotonin syndrome
  • vomiting
  • tremoring
  • seizures
  • hyperthermia
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal pain
  • dilated pupils

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary attention is required for decontamination, sedation, thermoregulation, IV fluid therapy, and monitoring of blood pressure and heart rhythm (ECG).

Why it's dangerous

These medications increase serotonin levels in the body, which at high doses can lead to serotonin syndrome, causing central nervous system stimulation or sedation and autonomic instability.

Toxic compound: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Good to know

Even therapeutic doses can result in moderate to severe clinical signs; rapid onset of symptoms makes professional decontamination essential.

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 dogs

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