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Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Pet toxin reference — educational information only.
Pet toxins

What to know

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) — toxicity in dogs and cats

EmergencyApplies to: dogs and cats.

Overview

Acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol, Excedrin, and many cold/flu medications) is extremely toxic to cats and dangerous to dogs. Cats lack a critical liver enzyme needed to metabolize acetaminophen, making even a single regular-strength tablet (325 mg) potentially fatal. In cats, acetaminophen destroys red blood cells and causes liver failure. Dogs are somewhat more tolerant, but doses above 75 mg per kilogram cause serious liver damage. Many over-the-counter medications contain acetaminophen in combination with other drugs - always check the ingredient list. Never give Tylenol to your pet under any circumstances.

Symptoms

Swollen face/paws, blue/brown gums, difficulty breathing, liver failure

Typical onset

1-4 hours

What to do

Seek emergency care immediately. Extremely toxic to cats - one tablet can be fatal.

This page is educational and does not replace veterinary advice. If your pet may have been exposed, call UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

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Acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol, Excedrin, and many cold/flu medications) is extremely toxic to cats and dangerous to dogs. Cats lack a critical liver enzyme needed to metabolize acetaminophen, making even a single regular-strength tablet (325 mg) potentially fatal. In cats, acetaminophen destroys red blood cells and causes liver failure. Dogs are somewhat more tolerant, but doses above 75 mg per kilogram cause serious liver damage. Many over-the-counter medications contain acetaminophen in combination with other drugs - always check the ingredient list. Never give Tylenol to your pet under any circumstances.

Symptoms
Swollen face/paws, blue/brown gums, difficulty breathing, liver failure
Onset
1-4 hours
What to do now
Seek emergency care immediately. Extremely toxic to cats - one tablet can be fatal.
Call UVEC now: (801) 218-2227
This tool is informational only and does not replace veterinary advice. If ingestion may have happened, contact UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.