Household drugs that are safe for humans, but not for your pets.
Some pet owners want to know if there are any over the counter medications that can be taken by their pet. If there are any, which ones and under what circumstances are they safe for pets to consume. The answer is never. Under no circumstances are human over the counter or prescription medications safe for animals to take without prior approval by a veterinary professional. Unfortunately, some animals will consume medications that have fallen to the ground by accident. Others will curiously manage to get into pill bottles. If you believe your pet has accidentally ingested human medication, contact animal poison control or a 24 hour veterinary clinic. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as these can take several hours to manifest. Below is a list of common medications found in the home, which can be dangerous or possibly fatal to your pets of ingested.
NSAIDS
These common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are extremely toxic to dogs, cats, birds, and other small mammals (ferrets, gerbils and hamsters). They cause stomach and intestinal ulcers and kidney and liver failure. Examples are Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and Naproxen (Aleve).Tramadol
This pain medication is sometimes prescribed to pets, but can be toxic in high doses. It should only be used as prescribed and should not be shared amongst animals without a prescription. High doses will result in sedation, wobbliness, agitation, disorientation, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Examples include Ultram.Sleep-Aids & Anxiety
Meant to alleviate anxiety and sleeplessness in people, these medications cause animals to become agitated and lethargic. It causes sleepiness, slowed breathing, weakness, and wobbliness. It can also cause an elevated heart rate and collapse. Liver failure in cats is also possible with some forms of Benzodiazepines. Examples include Xanax, Klonopin, Zolpidem, Ambien, and Lunesta.
ADD/ADHD
These ADD/ADHD medications are prescribed to kids and adults alike. They contain amphetamines and methylphenidate. They act as stimulants in pets and is life threatening even in small doses. They cause hyperactivity, tremors, elevated body temperature, heart problems, and seizures. Examples include Concerta, Adderall, and Ritalin.Acetaminophen
This is the most toxic to cats. A single tablet can kill a cat. If ingested by dogs, it causes liver failure and red blood cell damage. Depending on the dosage, a prescription is sometimes needed. Used to reduce fever and to treat small aches and pains. Examples include Tylenol.
Antidepressants
An overdose of these drugs can cause vocalizations, incoordination, tremors, seizures, and neurological problems. An elevated heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature is also possible with some of these mood disorder drugs. Examples include Effexor, Cymbalta, Prozac, and Lexapro.Birth Control
Dogs seem to like chewing the packaging of these. While ingestion is relatively safe for animals in small doses, large doses causes bone marrow suppression. What’s more, animals that have not been spayed can suffer estrogen poisoning side effects. Examples include estrogen, estradiol, and progesterone.ACE Inhibitors
These medications are used to treat high blood pressure in both people and pets. An overdose in animals can cause low blood pressure, dizziness, and weakness. Other than that, these are relatively safe. Examples include Zestril and Altace.Beta Blockers
Used to treat high blood pressure, small doses of these medications can cause severe poisoning effects in pets. An overdose produces dangerously low blood pressure and slow heart rate. Examples include Tenormin, Toprol, and Coreg.Thyroid Hormones
Both animals and people suffer from underactive thyroids. Acute overdoses in cats and dogs causes tremors, nervousness, panting, aggression, and a rapid heart rate. Examples include Armour and Synthroid.Statins
Used to treat high cholesterol, these are relatively safe but can cause mild vomiting and diarrhea when ingested by pets. Long-term use can cause more serious side effects. Examples include Lipitor, Zocor, and Crestor.Asthma Inhalers
Used to treat both humans and animals with asthma and respiratory problems, if the canister is punctured and chewed, it can lead to a massive overdose. Signs may include a racing heart rate, vomiting and collapse.ANIMAL POISON CONTROL HELP LINE (888) 426-4435
0 Comments