Ibuprofen Poisoning in Cats

What is ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen (brand names: Advil®, Motrin®, Midol®) is a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is frequently used to treat headaches, pain, colds, flu, fever, inflammation (swelling), and menstrual discomfort in humans.

Ibuprofen is available over the counter and by prescription. It may be the sole ingredient or part of a combination product, which can include opioids, antihistamines, decongestants, and acetaminophen.

What is ibuprofen poisoning?

Despite its relative safety in humans, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can be extremely harmful in cats, and small doses can cause adverse effects and poisoning. Well-meaning owners may accidentally poison their pet by administering ibuprofen without veterinary advice.

Cats tend to be more discriminating eaters than dogs and are less likely to get into their owner’s medications. However, cats cannot metabolize ibuprofen well, which results in more serious poisonings compared to dogs. Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control center, receives a high volume of calls per year for potential ibuprofen exposure in cats.

What causes ibuprofen poisoning?

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs block the production of prostaglandin and other chemical mediators. Unfortunately, these mediators are also important in maintaining normal gastrointestinal, kidney, liver, and blood clotting functions. Poisoning can occur from a single dose or repeated dosing. Cats that are already taking steroids or another NSAID have a higher risk of developing signs, including gastrointestinal ulceration.

What are the clinical signs of ibuprofen poisoning?

Ibuprofen poisoning can affect many organ systems, resulting in variable clinical signs. The organs affected and clinical signs expected depend on the amount ingested. At lower doses, signs occur related to irritation and ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract. These signs may include decreased appetite, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, depression, abdominal pain, dark tarry stools, pale gums, and bloody stools.

Higher doses can result in liver, kidney, and neurological damage. Clinical signs can include incoordination, increased or decreased drinking and urination, yellow discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes (jaundice/icterus), pale mucous membranes, agitation, tremors, seizures, and coma.

How is ibuprofen poisoning diagnosed?

Most cases of ibuprofen poisoning have a known or suspected exposure to ibuprofen. However, certain clinical signs and bloodwork changes can raise suspicion of NSAID poisoning. Diagnostic tests include bloodwork to evaluate organ function and blood cell counts. A urinalysis may also be recommended to help evaluate kidney function.

How is ibuprofen poisoning treated?

Early decontamination and treatment are key to reducing the risk of serious illness. After decontamination, medication may be necessary to prevent damage to the gastrointestinal tract and fluid therapy may be necessary to protect the kidneys from damage. Never attempt to induce vomiting in cats at home.

If you believe your pet ingested ibuprofen, it is important to immediately call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison center, at 1-800-213-6680, to have the risk of poisoning assessed.

What care will my cat require after treatment?

Typically, gastrointestinal protectants and supportive care will be recommended for several days following exposure. Higher doses and chronic exposures may require bloodwork monitoring after the cat is discharged. If liver or kidney damage occurs, ongoing at-home treatments may be needed. Depending on the cat’s condition, medications and monitoring may be continued for several days to months. In some cases, liver or kidney damage may be permanent.

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.