What is acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, paracetamol, APAP, N-acetylparaminophenol) is a medication used for pain relief and fever reduction in people. It is a popular over-the-counter oral medication and is also available by prescription.
Acetaminophen may be the only ingredient in a medication or be part of a combination product containing other medications. These medications may include aspirin, opioids, antihistamines, decongestants, and caffeine.
Typical uses in people include the treatment of fever, pain, colds, flu, and menstrual discomfort. Acetaminophen is available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, gel caps, melt away tablets, rectal suppositories, and liquids.
Is acetaminophen toxic to cats?
Yes, acetaminophen is toxic to cats. Acetaminophen is often found in homes with pets. Poisoning may happen when cats get into the owner’s medications. In some cases, owners may administer acetaminophen to treat their cat’s pain. Acetaminophen should never be given to a cat under any circumstances. Cats are especially sensitive to acetaminophen and as a result, are more vulnerable to poisoning and develop symptoms at much lower doses than dogs.
What are the signs of acetaminophen poisoning in cats?
Cats exposed to acetaminophen are likely to develop red blood cell changes, which interfere in the blood’s ability to provide oxygen to cells and tissues, followed by delayed liver damage.
Signs of acetaminophen poisoning can vary depending on the dose. Early signs in cats include:
- Stomach upset
- Decreased or no appetite
- Swelling of the face and paws
- Itchiness
Signs progress to:
- Weakness
- Depression
- Pale or discolored (bluish) gums
- Breathing problems
- Panting
- Elevated heart rate (secondary to red blood cell changes)
- Liver failure
- Secondary kidney failure
- Death
What is the treatment for a cat experiencing acetaminophen poisoning?
As with all poisoning cases, early intervention is key to successful treatment. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 pet poison center for animals, at 800-213-6680, as soon as you realize your pet ingested acetaminophen. Never attempt to induce vomiting in your cat at home.
Your veterinarian may give your cat medical-grade activated charcoal to minimize absorption of acetaminophen from the gastrointestinal tract. Supportive therapy will be offered, including fluid support and appropriate medications to treat your pet’s clinical signs and to support organ function. Hospitalization may be needed. Treatment may be more prolonged in cats than in dogs because of cats’ greater level of sensitivity to acetaminophen.
Is any follow-up necessary after treatment?
The prognosis for cats is excellent if exposure is treated early. Delays in treatment or lack of treatment greatly reduce the chances for a successful outcome, and permanent organ damage or death is possible.
Pet Poison Helpline, a pet poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.
