Many pet owners unintentionally endanger their animals by keeping human pharmaceuticals close at hand. Certain medications can be exceedingly toxic—even lethal—to pets, even though they may be safe for humans. Serious side effects, such as organ failure, brain damage, and even death, can result with even a tiny dosage. At Alpha Animal Hospital in Abbotsford, we aim to inform pet owners about the risks associated with human pharmaceuticals and how to ensure the safety of their animals. Ten typical human medications that are lethal to pets will be covered in this article, along with their side effects and what to do in the event of an accidental consumption.
1. Acetaminophen (paracetamol, Tylenol)
For cats, acetaminophen is extremely poisonous, and for dogs, it is dangerous. Blood problems, lung problems, and liver failure can result from even a modest dosage. Because they lack the enzymes necessary to break it down, cats are particularly sensitive and can become poisoned quickly. Lethargy, puffiness, and black urine are some of the symptoms.
2. Naproxen (Advil, Aleve, Motrin) and Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen and naproxen are examples of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) that can cause serious stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and neurological problems in pets. A single tablet may be harmful. Seizures, black stools, diarrhoea, and vomiting are among the symptoms. Keep these painkillers out of your pet’s reach at all times.
3. Antidepressants (Zoloft, Lexapro, and Prozac)
Pets who take antidepressants may experience severe toxicity, including seizures, tremors, and dangerously elevated heart rates. Lethargy, excitement, or vomiting are some possible symptoms for certain pets. These drugs alter the brain’s serotonin levels, which can result in serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal illness.
4. ADHD Drugs (Concerta, Adderall, and Ritalin)
Stimulants used in ADHD medications can induce seizures, elevated body temperatures, and even death in pets. Tremors, hyperactivity, an accelerated heartbeat, and high blood pressure can result from even tiny doses. See a veterinarian right away if your pet consumes these.
5. Blood Pressure Drugs (ACE Inhibitors, Beta Blockers)
Beta blockers and ACE inhibitors are two examples of blood pressure-regulating medications that can cause extreme weakness, dangerously low blood pressure, and renal failure in pets. Lethargy, collapse, and vomiting are signs of poisoning. For dogs and cats, ingesting even a tiny amount can be fatal.
6. Anti-Anxiety Drugs and Sleep Aids (Valium, Ambien, Xanax)
Pets taking these drugs may experience significant excitement, aggressiveness, and breathing problems, which is the opposite consequence. They can occasionally result in unconsciousness and dangerously sluggish heart rhythms. When pets consume sleep aids, they may also tremble, throw up, and move erratically.
7. Diabetes Drugs (Glipizide, Insulin, and Metformin)
Pets on diabetes drugs may experience hypoglycemia, a hazardous dip in blood sugar that can result in weakness, seizures, and even coma. See a veterinarian right away if your pet takes any diabetes medication because the symptoms can worsen quickly and even kill them.
8. Heart drugs (calcium channel blockers, digoxin)
Pets using heart drugs may experience severe toxicity that impairs kidney function, blood pressure, and heart rate. Poisoning symptoms include collapse, diarrhoea, vomiting, and abnormal heartbeats. To avoid consumption, these medications should always be kept safely out of reach.
9. Cold remedies and decongestants (phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine)
Pseudoephedrine, a stimulant used in many cold remedies, can cause seizures, excessive body temperature, and a fast heartbeat in pets. A tiny quantity can result in tremors, agitation, and potentially fatal cardiovascular problems. Never offer over-the-counter cold remedies to pets.
10. Hormone therapy drugs and birth control pills
Birth control and hormone treatment medications that contain oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can seriously harm pets’ health, especially in female dogs. Hormone abnormalities, bone marrow suppression, and reproductive issues can result from prolonged exposure. Store all hormone-related drugs in a secure location.
Pets can be poisoned by many human pharmaceuticals, and merely one dose can be fatal. Get your pet checked out right away if you think they may have consumed any medications. Our skilled staff at Alpha Animal Hospital in Abbotsford is prepared to offer life-saving care and emergency care. Give us a call at (604) 859-6322 if you require help. Never administer human medication to pets without a veterinarian’s advice, and always store pharmaceuticals securely. Prevention and awareness are the first steps to keeping your cat safe!
