Medicines
Is cold and flu decongestants toxic to cats and dogs?
Also sold as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, Sudafed, cold and flu tablets
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicDecongestants act as stimulants in pets, causing agitation, a racing heart, high blood pressure and seizures. Many cold remedies also contain paracetamol or ibuprofen.
By Maya HartIf your pet got into it
- This is an emergency.
- Go to your vet now and bring the packet — combination products change the treatment.
Signs to watch for
- Agitation and pacing
- Racing heart
- Dilated pupils
- High temperature
- Tremors and seizures
How much is dangerous
One tablet can poison a small dog or a cat.
Keeping it safe
- Keep cold remedies in a closed cupboard, not a handbag on the floor
The details
“Day and night” combination packs often mix a decongestant with a painkiller and an antihistamine. Each needs different treatment, which is why the packet matters.
Questions owners ask
Is cold and flu decongestants toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic.
Is cold and flu decongestants toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic.
How much is dangerous?
One tablet can poison a small dog or a cat.
What should I do if my pet got into it?
This is an emergency. Go to your vet now and bring the packet — combination products change the treatment.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts