Can I Give My Cat Aspirin or Tylenol?

Posted by Jennifer Copley Dec 12, 2008

Can cats be given Tylenol (also known as acetaminophen or paracetamol), aspirin, or other medications formulated for people? This question often comes up, and the answer is no.

Many human medications are extremely toxic to cats, including aspirin. A single dose can actually kill a cat. Cats should only be given medications specifically formulated for cats unless it is a qualified veterinarian administering the medication, and owners should always consult a veterinarian before administering medication themselves. For more information on this, see Aspirin and Tylenol Are Toxic to Cats.

A common reason why people seek advice on whether or not they can give aspirin to cats is that the cat suffers from arthritis. See Arthritis in Cats and Essential Fatty Acids Are Beneficial for Cats and Dogs for information on safe and effective treatments for arthritis in pets.

If you suspect that your cat has ingested aspirin or another toxic substance, see What To Do if Your Cat Has Been Poisoned. If you're seeking general information on substances toxic to cats, see:

• Foods That Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs
• Plants That Are Poisonous to Cats