Despite pets’ astounding ability to bond with and communicate with humans, they are far from our close evolutionary relatives. Pets are entirely different species, with variable metabolisms and drug tolerances to match. Many veterinary medical treatments are derived from human medical knowledge, but not all human medications are safe or effective for pets. In fact, many of them can seriously harm your pet when used improperly. The Dove Mountain Veterinary team provides pet owners with a list of the most dangerous human medications they must never give their pets.

#1: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and pets

Most people’s medicine cabinets contain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ready to address everyday aches and pains. NSAIDs often have a sweet coating that appeals to pets, and some pet owners give them to their pet to try to relieve suspected pain, but these medications can cause kidney failure and stomach ulcers.

#2: Pain relievers and pets

Aspirin and acetaminophen are also common fixtures in most homes. Although these drugs can be safe for some pets in small doses, standard human tablets are so large that they are dangerous for pets. An aspirin overdose can cause bleeding stomach ulcers and blood thinning, while acetaminophen can cause red blood cell and liver damage.

#3: ADHD medications and pets

ADHD medications are strong stimulants that act differently on your pet’s body than yours or your child’s. Pets who consume Adderall, Ritalin, and other similar drugs can suffer from an elevated heart rate, hyperactivity, high body temperature, and seizures.

#4: Cold medications and pets

While some antihistamines and cough suppressants are safe for pets at prescribed and appropriate doses, in many cold medications, these drugs are combined with decongestants. Decongestants can act like stimulants, causing elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors, and agitation. Some cold medications also contain harmful NSAIDs or pain relievers.

#5: Psychiatric medications and pets

Veterinarians routinely prescribe a select few anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications to dogs and cats, always at tightly controlled doses. Overdoses of these medications can alter brain chemistry balance and cause a variety of serious symptoms, including sedation, incoordination, seizures, heart problems, or elevated body temperature.

#6: Heart medications and pets

ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics are used in human and veterinary medicine to treat heart problems. Pets who ingest a non-veterinarian prescribed heart medication or who ingest large doses can suffer from blood pressure and heart rate or rhythm changes, electrolyte imbalances, or dehydration.

#7: Sleep aids and pets

Many sleep aids contain benzodiazepines, which are used in small amounts when pets undergo anesthesia. Although these drugs are potent sedatives, many pets have the opposite reaction and become hyperactive and uncoordinated at the same time. In cats, benzodiazepines can result in liver failure.

Prevention and treatment for drug ingestion in pets

Proper medication storage is crucial to keep pets safe. Don’t assume that your pet will find a medication’s smell or taste unpleasant—the opposite is often true, because they find the medication new and interesting. Store medications in their original child-proof containers in high cabinets or drawers your pet cannot reach or open. Keep purses, backpacks, and guest luggage that may contain medication off the floor.

Treatment for toxic drug ingestion depends on the drug, the amount ingested, and your pet’s size. The more drug that is circulating in your pet’s bloodstream relative to their size, the more dangerous the situation. Some ingestions may require only monitoring at home, while others may necessitate an emergency veterinary visit and possible hospital stay. Treatments may include decontamination via emesis (i.e., vomiting), charcoal, or IV lipids, IV fluids to flush the kidneys, and supportive care to combat gastrointestinal (GI), liver, neurological, and other signs.

The list above is far from all-inclusive, and you should never give your pet medication without our Dove Mountain Veterinary team’s instructions. If your pet ingests a dropped over-the-counter or prescription medication or chews up a bottle of pills, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or Pet Poison Helpline to speak with a professional toxicologist and determine whether your pet is in danger. If you have concerns about your pet’s health or feel medication could help, contact our team to schedule a visit and discuss safe treatment options.