When pets are in pain our first instinct is to relieve their suffering.
Before administering any type of pain medication to your pet, it is advised that you consult your veterinarian.
The pain medication may mask vital symptoms and the veterinarian will not be able to make a clear and informed assessment of your pet’s condition.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is widely used by humans to relieve pain and fever. However, it is not a drug to be used on our pets. Dogs have some tolerance for acetaminophen but an overdose can easily result in a severe, life threatening condition.
Cats are extremely sensitive to acetaminophen and even small doses result in acetaminophen poisoning.
Clinical signs of acetaminophen poisoning are cyanosis (blue colouring due to deficient oxygenation of the blood), facial edema, depression, hypothermia (cold temperature), anorexia (not eating), salivation and vomiting.
Treatment if seen within four hours of ingestion will include: induction of vomiting, administration of activated charcoal to decrease the absorption of acetaminophen and supportive care (oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, etc.).
There is an antidote to acetaminophen but not all pharmacies have it on hand.
If you know your animal has ingested acetaminophen or any other poison, it is important to get veterinary assistance as soon as possible.
Prognosis depends on the amount of poison ingested and how quickly the animal is seen by a veterinarian.
submitted by Dr. Robert Wright Veterinary Services
