If your dog or cat is in pain, you want to do everything in your power to make them better. After all, they really are our best friends. If your dog or cat is struggling, you may be thinking about giving them Ibuprofen or Paracetamol. However, although you may want to give them a pain killer, as you believe it is a safe drug, you should never do anything without the permission of your vet.

Let’s take a look at whether or not you can give Ibuprofen or Paracetamol to dogs and cats.

Can you give dogs and cats Ibuprofen or Paracetamol?

In short, the answer is NO. Let’s take a look at Ibuprofen and Paracetamol:

Ibuprofen.

Ibuprofen is TOXIC to both cats and dogs and can cause stomach ulcers, anemia, kidney failure, seizures, coma and death.

Paracetamol.

Paracetamol is extremely toxic to cats and should not be given to them under any circumstances. Cats are unable to break down paracetamol and it changes the red blood cells in the body making them unable to carry oxygen, leading to complete organ and metabolic dysfunction and even death.

Paracetamol is not registered for use for dogs in Australia, meaning that it can only be administered to the strictest of guidelines. You should never give your dog paracetamol unless under strict instructions by your veterinarian to do so.

What to do if your pet has consumed Ibuprofen or Paracetamol?

If you have accidentally given your pet ibuprofen or paracetamol, or it has accidentally eaten some, you should call Illawarra Animal Hospital in Yallah or Figtree or call your local vet immediately. Do not wait, as this could be fatal for your pet.

Can you give your dog Paracetamol if it’s prescribed?

Under some circumstances, your Vet may decide to prescribe a veterinary formulation of paracetamol to your dog. However, they will never prescribe paracetamol to a cat as it is incredibly toxic.

If your dog has been prescribed paracetamol, you need to ensure that you understand the instructions fully. In most cases a more suitable pain killer would be prescribed. It would also be important to find out the cause of the pain and hence, a Vet consultation is crucial.

Talk to Illawarra Animal Hospital Today

If you are looking for more information contact Illawarra Animal Hospital to book an appointment to discuss your concerns about your pet’s pain.