Cat owners...read this...beware of meds.

I stopped by the local ER clinic and a friend was examining a cat that was given a Tylenol tablet. The cat was having trouble breathing because the effects the drug has on the red blood cells. The cat's gum color was actually grey to brown in color. She thought the cat was going to die but actually did well with treatment (thank goodness - the cat was adorable - its name was "Bambi").  

You should NEVER give your cat any medication without first checking with your veterinarian. It is not uncommon for well-intentioned owners to accidentally poison their cat with medications that are dangerous.

So...what medications should you never give? I'll tell you.

1. Aspirin. Aspirin toxicity (salicylate toxicity) is poisoning that occurs following the ingestion of aspirin or aspirin-containing products. Cats are more susceptible to the effects of aspirin than are dogs because they are unable to metabolize the drug as quickly. Take your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment. If you live more than 30 minutes from the veterinary hospital, call ahead for advice on whether or not to induce vomiting at home prior to transportation.

2. Ibuprofen . Ibuprofen is a popular and effective over-the-counter medication available to treat pain and inflammation in people. For cats, ibuprofen can easily exceed toxic levels. The most common cause of ibuprofen toxicity is a well-meaning owner who tries to alleviate pain in his cat by administering a dose he thinks is adequate without knowing the toxic dose. The initial toxic effect is bleeding stomach ulcers. In addition to ulcers, increasing doses of ibuprofen eventually lead to kidney failure and, if left untreated, can be fatal.

3. Pyrethrin and Permethrin Insecticides . The most common types of insecticide used to kill fleas are pyrethrins. Permethrin based topical flea products are usually labeled "for use in dogs only." Application of permethrin-based insecticide to a cat will usually result in toxic signs within 6 hours. Signs include drooling, lethargy, muscle tremors, vomiting and seizures.

4. Tylenol . Acetaminophen is a medication commonly used to alleviate fever and pain. Common brands include Tylenol®, Percoset®, aspirin free Excedrin® and various sinus, cold and flu medications. Cats are much more sensitive to acetaminophen than dogs and are therefore more susceptible to acetaminophen toxicity. One regular strength acetaminophen tablet is toxic and potentially lethal to a cat. There is no home care for acetaminophen toxicity.

If you ever suspect that your cat has ingested any amount of these medications, please contact your family veterinarian or local veterinary emergency facility immediately.

Until next time,

Dr. Jon