Toxic Medication For Pets

As pet owners, its often hard to refrain from trying to help your pet when he or she is sick. It’s natural to want to ease your pet’s pain if he or she is feeling ill or discomfort. But before you act, take into consideration that common medications used for humans can be toxic or even fatal to your pet.

It is always recommended that you contact your veterinarian before administering any medications to your pets. It could be the difference between life and death. While some over-the-counter medications are used to treat cats and dogs, the dose is critical. Below is a list of some of the most dangerous drugs for cats and dogs.

Most Dangerous Drugs for Your Pets

Tylenol

Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol is very toxic in cats, the drug interferes with oxygen uptake in the blood of cats and can result in death if not treated promptly. Acetaminophen can be used in dogs, but the dose is key. Consult with you vet, because Acetaminophen overdose in dogs can cause severe liver damage. A few as two regular strength pills can cause an overdose in dogs.

Aspirin

This drug is also very toxic to cats except in a very low dose. At times, veterinarians will use aspirin as an anticoagulant for cats with heart disease, this should only be done under a veterinarians supervision, as aspirin can be fatal. Dogs can tolerate this drug, and veterinarians will sometimes recommend it for use as a pain reliever. Chronic use of the drug produces side effects.’

Ibuprofen

This is the active ingredient in over-the-counter medications such as Asvil, Motrin, and “cold and flu” medications. This drug is never recommended for cats or dogs, as it can result in severe gastric ulcers or acute kidney failure. Accidental ingestion should be treated immediately.

Naproxen

This is the active ingredient in Aleve or Anaprox, and is a very potent NSAID. Minute doses can result in severe symptoms of gastric ulcers, stomach perforations, or acute kidney failure in animals, and should never be used in animals.

Safety First

Despite all of these medications that are toxic and maybe even fatal for pets, there are safe options out there. Although some medications can be usually perceived safe for use in pets, the breed, size of the dog, and original health can all take part in whether or not it is safe to give your pet a medication. As always, consult with your veterinarian for dosage instructions.

Immodium

This drug can be used to treat diarrhea in dogs and cats. Collies and related breeds are prone to toxicity from this product, so it should not be used to treat that particular breed. If the treatment is not effective within 48 hours, stop using it.

Metamucil

This can be used as a bulk laxative and stool softener in dogs and cats. It is also used to treat fiber responsive diarrhea. However, if your pet is suffering from an intestinal obstruction, Metamucil is not recommended.

Our pets bodies are completely different than ours, but the fact is that they cannot handle medicines designed for humans. You can contact us to figure out dose instructions and safe medications through the link below, we are always here to help.