Medicines
Is paracetamol toxic to cats and dogs?
Also sold as acetaminophen, Tylenol, Panadol, Calpol
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
ToxicParacetamol is deadly to cats — part of one tablet can kill a cat by damaging its red blood cells. In dogs, larger doses damage the liver. Never give it to a pet without a vet’s instruction.
By Maya HartIf your pet got into it
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now, even if your pet seems fine.
- Have the packet ready: the vet needs the name, strength and how much may be missing.
- Do not make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Brown or blue-grey gums
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Swollen face or paws (cats)
- Vomiting and drooling
- Yellow gums or eyes (liver damage)
How much is dangerous
Cats: there is no safe dose. Dogs: liver damage becomes likely from around 100 mg per kg.
Keeping it safe
- Keep all medicines out of reach
- Never give a cat any human painkiller
The details
Cats lack an enzyme that dogs and people use to break paracetamol down safely. The drug instead converts haemoglobin into a form that cannot carry oxygen, and the cat effectively suffocates. There is an antidote, but it must be given early.
Questions owners ask
Is paracetamol toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic.
Is paracetamol toxic to dogs?
Yes — toxic.
How much is dangerous?
Cats: there is no safe dose. Dogs: liver damage becomes likely from around 100 mg per kg.
What should I do if my pet got into it?
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now, even if your pet seems fine. Have the packet ready: the vet needs the name, strength and how much may be missing. Do not make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
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