NSAIDs and Cats: Why They're Dangerous and What Other Medications You Can Use
Why You Should Never Use Over-The-Counter NSAIDs
Cats are extremely sensitive to NSAIDs as their liver does not process the medication the way that humans and dogs are capable of doing. Cats lack a necessary enzyme to properly process the medication. As a result, it's easy to overdose a cat and bring the NSAID to toxic levels in the animal's bloodstream.
Types of NSAIDs That May Be Used
Meloxicam (Metacam, Mobic, Mobicox) is an NSAID that has been approved by the FDA for a on-time only use for cats after surgery. This is prescription only and should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Aspirin can be given but also in such small quantities and infrequent dosages that it is best to consult a veterinarian before using the medicine for your cat.
Alternatives
Alternatives for NSAIDs include tramadol (Ultram), gabapentin (Neurontin), prednisone/prednisolone, buprenorphine (Buprenex), butorphanol tartrate (Stadol, Torbutrol, Torbugesic), and dexamethasone (Azium, Voren). All of these require veterinary supervision.
Adverse Effects
NSAIDs, when improperly administered, will cause gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, black stools, bloody stools and neurological problems such as seizures, panting, anxiety, depression and a lowered respiratory rate.
Warning
Never give acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or any other over-the-counter NSAID without approval of a veterinarian. There are many safer prescription medications for cats than over-the-counter medications.
Reference
"Guide to a Healthy Cat," Elaine Wexler-Mitchell, DVM, 2004.
CatHealth.com: Keeping Cats Comfortable: Pain Management
Veterinary Partner: Feline: Analgesics (Pain Relief)
Published by MH Bonham - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle
MH Bonham is a multiple award-winning author and world-renown pet expert who has more than 30 books and hundreds of articles published. She is a Science Fiction and Fantasy and Pet author. She is an expert... View profile
- Aspirin Use for DogsChronic pain / inflammation treated with small aspirin dosage help dogs with positive outcome. Unfortunate side effects happen dogs given more then required dosage. Canine Chewable aspirins available for dogs. Subst...
Zofran and Pain Management: Old Drug May Provide New Relief from Symptom...Many people, such as cancer patients, need strong pain management, but fear becoming addicted to prescription pain relievers. Scientists found that Zofran, an anti-nausea and v...- Endometriosis & Pain Management TechniquesFor many women, the pain associated with endometriosis is a leading cause of impaired daily living. This is an overview of the pain management options to be considered with your gynecologist.
- Celebrity Overdoses Adversely Effect Pain ManagementIt seems that celebrity overdoses or accidental deaths caused by prescription drugs are having an adverse effect on pain management in America.
- Common Over-the-Counter Medications for Treating Back PainInterested in finding out which over the counter medications are best for relieving back pain? Here is a guide to the most popular non prescription medications for relieving back pain.
- Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Acetaminophen: The Difference Between Over-The-Count...
- Dangers in Herbal Medications
- How Safe Are Your Medications?
- Are You Unknowingly Buying Homeopathic Medications?
- Don't OD on NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Antiinflamatory Drugs)
- Medication: NSAIDS: What Are They?
- Back Pain - Is it All In Your Head?
- NSAIDs are highly toxic to cats.
- Never give your cat over the counter medications for pain or fever.
- Talk with your veterinarian about pain management for your cat.