Over the Counter Drugs

Can Be Dangerous for Your Pet

Did you know that many drugs and herbal products that are beneficial to humans can be harmful or even deadly for pets? In fact, the American Veterinary Medical Association notes that drug poisoning is the most common small animal poison exposure.  The AVMA cautions pet owners to contact a veterinarian before dosing a pet with any medication because even if the drug is safe in some doses, it may not be safe in human doses. In addition, dogs do not utilize or tolerate all drugs the same way humans do, so a drug that relieves pain in humans can poison a dog or cat.

So be wise and always check with your veterinarian before you give your pet any medication.

FAQs on OTCs & Pets

Can I feed my dog a human breath mint? 

It’s not a good idea to feed your dog any sort of breath freshener that hasn’t been formulated specifically for pets. Some breath-freshening products contain the sweetener xylitol, which can cause a sharp drop in a dog's blood sugar, resulting in depression, loss of coordination and seizures, and even liver damage. There are plenty of ways to solve your dog’s breath problem without giving him products made for people. Ask your veterinarian for suggestions.

Can I give my dog toothpaste? 

No. When you brush your dog’s teeth, use toothpaste formulated for dogs. Human toothpaste may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Call your veterinarian or the Poison Control Center immediately if you suspect that your dog has eaten your toothpaste.  Note: Soap and sun block also can cause severe vomitinn and diarrhea. And mothballs if ingested can cause liver, kidney, and respiratory damage. If your pet ingests a mothball be sure to immediately take your pet to your veterinarian.

Can I give my dog/cat acetaminophen? 

No. Acetaminophen  is a human medication found in many over-the-counter preparations; which includes Tylenol, a number of cold, flu, and sinus remedies, as well as some prescription pain medications. In dogs, acetaminophen destroys red blood cells leading to anemia as well as severe irreversible liver damage, and may lead to death if untreated. Note: Tylenol or acetaminophen can never be given to cats because they are unable to  metabolize it and even small amounts can  lead to liver failure.

Can I give my dog/cat Ibuprofen? 

No. Ibuprofen can be toxic to dogs and other pets—even in small amounts. Depending on the dose ingested, significant gastrointestinal damage or even kidney damage could result.

Can I give my dog/cat Aleve?

No. Aleve (naproxen), an NSAID, is an over-the-counter medication used to treat fever, pain and inflammation in humans. In dogs, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in the digestive tract which can progress to bleeding, as well as liver or kidney damage, or even death.

Can I give my dog/cat aspirin?  

While your veterinarian may prescribe an occasional baby aspirin for your dog, your cat is unable to metabolize aspirin, so should never be given this medication.  And even for your dog, prolonged use of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory like aspirin can cause serious or potentially life-threatening problems.  If you feel that your pet needs pain relief, get in touch with your veterinarian. Your vet can advise you regarding the best dose to use or, if necessary, can prescribe an appropriate pain reliever.

Can I give my dog/cat Sudafed?

No. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) causes increased heart rate and blood pressure, and should never be given to dogs.   If you suspect that your pet has eaten your medication, call your veterinarian since some poisonings require antidotes or supportive treatment.

Can I give my dog/cat cough syrup?

No.  Human cough syrup may contain acetaminophen (Tylenol) and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed). Both are toxic to dogs, and should never be given. Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect that your dog has eaten your medication.

Can I give my pet Pepto Bismol? 

Your veterinarian may have prescribed Pepto Bismol for your dog’s upset stomach in the past.  However, before you repeat the treatment for future upsets, contact your veterinarian for updated dosage and treatment length advice.  Special Note:  Never give a cat Pepto Bismol as it is highly toxic in cats.

Can I give my pet laxatives?

No. Human laxatives will cause diarrhea in dogs. To prevent or treat constipation, you can add bran, one teaspoon of canned pumpkin (not the spiced pumpkin for pies), vegetables, or small amounts of olive oil to your dog’s food. Always be sure your dog has plenty of fresh water available throughout the day.  If your dog is constipated, call your veterinarian first to make sure that it is, in fact, constipation and not an intestinal blockage.

Can I give my dog Kaopectate/Imodium (loperamide)? 

These can be given to some dogs and cats for diarrhea, but never give them without first calling your veterinarian for recommended dosages.  WARNING: Certain dog breeds related to Collies may have highly adverse reactions to Imodium (loperamide/ivermectin).  Never give this medicine to Collies, Shelties, Australian Shepherds and Long-haired Whippits.

Can I give my dog zinc?

No.  Zinc, a heavy metal, is the 9th most common cause of dog poisonings in 2008.  While Zinc is necessary for a normal immune system, and the formation of red blood cells, and even helps maintain normal blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs. However, excess zinc levels can lead to pancreatitis or toxicity.  One fact to know is that some pet transport crates can have high zinc levels, so you should try to prevent your dog from licking or chewing on the crate wires. Signs of zinc toxicity are decreased appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and weakness that can progress to kidney failure.

Can I give my pet  OTC vitamins, supplements, and herbals? 

It’s always wise to consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any natural/herbal products or supplements.  Some of these products can affect or interfere with other medications your pet may be taking.

For more information, go to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Poison Prevention Control Center or the American Veterinary Medical Association