Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs that we use are fine to use for both cats and dogs. However, some drugs and medications that are safe for humans are extremely toxic to pets. All clients should check with their veterinarian before administering any human prescription or over-the-counter medication to their pet.
There are some medications that definitely should not be administered to pets. These medications can cause serious problems as well as fatal reactions. The following incomplete list is just a small fraction of medications that should not be given to your pet (unless advised by your veterinarian):
- Emetics - Emetics are drugs that induce vomiting and are sometimes given to pets that have swallowed poison. After the ingestion of certain poisons, it is not always recommended to induce vomiting. Always call your veterinarian before administering an emetic.
- Kaolin-Pectin Combinations - These are used to treat diarrhea. They have been proven to make no difference in how fast diarrhea clears up. They are generally non-toxic, however pets do not appreciate the taste.
- Loperamide (Imodium A-D®) - Can be toxic to dogs, especially collies, and cats.
- Phenolphthalein (Ex-Lax ®) - Has not been proven effective and has caused toxicity.
- Phosphate enemas (Fleet Enema®) - Can be very toxic to cats. (anyway, can you imagine doing this to your cat??)
- Gatorade®, chicken broth, apple juice, and cola - Should NOT be given to dehydrated pets. They can make the dehydration worse.
- Ophthalmic Decongestants (Visine®, OcuClear®) - These can make a sore eye look better, but they don't cure anything. They can hide symptoms and interfere with a diagnosis. These should only be administered after consulting with your veterinarian.
- Aspirin - Often prescribed and can be a good drug to use. If an inappropriate dose is administered, Aspirin can cause bleeding ulcers in pets. If Aspirin is recommended, your veterinarian will also prescribe the appropriate dose as well as the brand.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Excedrin ®) - NEVER use in cats. It could easily kill your cat. Consult your veterinarian before using this medication in dogs.
- Ibuprofin (Advil®, Motrin®) - There is a narrow margin of safety when using this drug in dogs. Side effects are often very unpredictable. Ibuprofin is the drug that most is commonly reported to the National Animal Poison Control Center as being toxic to dogs.
- Naproxen (Aleve®) - Not much is known about this drug in pets, but there have been several reports of toxicity.
- Cough Syrups - Some are safe, but many have mixtures that are not suitable for dogs and cats. Always consult your veterinarian before using any of them.
- Benzocaine(Lanacane®, Solarcaine®) - These have caused toxic effects in both dogs and cats.
- Methyl Salicylate ("Soothing ointments") - Especially toxic to cats.
- Hydrogen Peroxide - When used on wounds, hydrogen peroxide is painful and causes tissue toxicity. The bubbles are impressive but don't really do much.
These medications are absolutely not the entire list of potentially dangerous over-the-counter drugs. Before administering any medication or drug to your pet, always consult your veterinarian. He or she is the expert and knows what is best for your pet.