Protecting Your Pets: Understanding Medication Risks

Safeguarding Your Beloved Companions

Watching our beloved pets endure suffering is a heart-wrenching experience, and it's only natural to wish to alleviate their discomfort during times of illness or pain. However, it is crucial to recognize that numerous common medications designed for humans – even children – can prove toxic or even deadly to your cherished pets.

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Staggeringly, nearly 50% of the calls fielded by the national 24/7 animal poison control center, Pet Poison Helpline, revolve around cases of animal poisoning stemming from human medications.

Before taking action, it is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian. Doing so can make the difference between life and death for your pet.

Medications Pose a Threat to Pets

While several over-the-counter medications are routinely employed in treating cats and dogs, others can be lethal, even in minuscule doses, warns Dr. Ahna Brutlag, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline. The contrasting metabolisms of cats, dogs, and humans account for these discrepancies. As Dr. Brutlag emphasizes, it is vital to understand that pets are more than just "small humans." Here is a list of some of the most hazardous drugs for cats and dogs:

• Tylenol (Acetaminophen): The active ingredient, acetaminophen, is highly toxic to cats. Even a single regular-strength acetaminophen tablet or a dose of children's liquid acetaminophen can lead to red blood cell damage and liver injury in cats. Methemoglobinemia, a condition preventing the blood from carrying oxygen, can result. Dogs are less sensitive but can still experience these effects in cases of overdose.

• Aspirin: While dogs can tolerate aspirin, it can be toxic to cats if given in high doses. Only a veterinarian should prescribe aspirin for cats with heart disease, but it should be used cautiously due to its extended half-life.

• Ibuprofen: Found in over-the-counter pain relievers like Advil and Motrin, ibuprofen belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) category. However, it is not recommended for cats or dogs, as it can lead to painful bleeding, stomach ulcers, and kidney failure. Prompt treatment is vital in cases of accidental ingestion.

• Naproxen: The active ingredient in Aleve or Anaprox, this potent NSAID can cause severe stomach ulcers, stomach perforations, and acute kidney failure in animals. It should never be used on pets.

Critical Cautions

Veterinarians may suggest some over-the-counter antihistamines for use in cats and dogs. However, it is essential to ensure you are purchasing pure antihistamines. Products bearing labels like "cold and flu," "sinus," "plus," or "congestion" frequently contain multiple medications that may prove fatal to pets. For example, fexofenadine, a common antihistamine known as Allegra, can help alleviate allergy or insect bite symptoms in dogs or cats. Beware of the similar-sounding Allegra-D, which contains the decongestant pseudoephedrine. While decongestants have their uses for humans, they can be perilous, even deadly, for dogs and cats.

Responding to Pet Poisoning

Should you suspect that your pet has ingested medication unintentionally, contact the Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian without delay. Swift action significantly improves your pet's prognosis.

As a precaution, dog owners should keep fresh, non-expired 3% hydrogen peroxide on hand. This can be used to induce vomiting in the event of accidental poisoning, depending on the substance ingested. There is no at-home emetic available for cats, so your veterinarian will need to administer a particular medication to induce vomiting safely. Inducing vomiting in dogs at home can have side effects, so it is essential to consult with the Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian to ascertain its safety, appropriate dosage, and optimal timing. There is only a narrow window through which it can be done safely and effectively.

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Pets Are Unique

While we may view our pets as cherished family members, it is essential to acknowledge that their physiological systems differ from ours. Medications we rely on for our well-being and comfort can have devastating consequences for our pets. If you have questions about any medications, consult with your veterinarian. Never assume a drug is safe for your pet.