Acetaminophen, most commonly known by the brand Tylenol, poses a dangerous hazard to cats. Cat owners should not to attempt to medicate their pets themselves and be sure to keep medicines, even empty bottles, out of the reach of their cats.
Toxicity
Cat biology is unique; over-the-counter medications aimed at humans can cause illness and death in cats in even small amounts. As little as 10 mg/kg of acetaminophen can cause toxicosis. The reason why cat's bodies cannot handle the drug is because of their low levels of an enzyme called glucuronyl transferase, which is located in the liver. This enzyme usually makes a drug water-soluble and inactive over time, allowing the body to filter out the drug after it has achieved desired results. Cats do not posses enough of this enzyme to properly excrete the drug, meaning the drug will remain in the blood stream for long periods.
Symptoms of Toxicosis
- Methemeoglobinemia: Cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the blood stream are overrun by hemoglobins that do not transport oxygen, depriving the cat's body of oxygen. The results of this condition include:
- Fast heart rate
- Discolored gums and skin
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Depression
- Swelling in the limbs, neck and face
- Hypothermia
- Difficulty walking/keeping balance
- Coma
- Hepatic necrosis: The other condition caused by an excess of this drug is death of liver cells. Symptoms are similar to that of methemeoglobinemia:
Both conditions can result in death fairly quickly, particularly if not treated within the first 8 hours after ingestion.
- Reduced appetite
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Epilepsy
- Discolored gums
Treatment
Found in Numerous Medications
Empty Bottle May Pose Hazard
Acetaminophen can be poisonous to cats even in microscopic amounts and there is little chance of recovery. Owners should take precautions to keep medicines out of reach of their cats and should only administer medication to an animal on the instruction of a vet.