Is Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) Toxic to Cats?

Ibuprofen is extremely toxic to dogs and cats even in small doses. It causes stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and seizures. Never give human pain medication to pets.

Quick Answer

Yes, ibuprofen (advil, motrin) is toxic to cats. Dangerous — can cause kidney failure and GI ulcers. Ibuprofen is extremely toxic to dogs and cats even in small doses. It causes stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and seizures. Never give human pain medication to pets. Watch for symptoms like vomiting (often with blood) & diarrhea (dark or bloody).

Emergency

If your cat has ingested ibuprofen (advil, motrin), contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately.

Symptoms of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) Poisoning

Vomiting (often with blood)
Diarrhea (dark or bloody)
Abdominal pain
Kidney failure (decreased urination)
Seizures in severe cases

Typical Timeline

GI symptoms within 2-6 hours. Kidney damage within 12-24 hours.

Treatment Options

Contact vet immediately
Induced vomiting if within 2 hours
Activated charcoal
IV fluids for kidney protection
GI protectants (sucralfate, omeprazole)

Prevention Tips

Never give human pain meds to pets
Store all medications in closed cabinets
Pick up any dropped pills immediately
Ask your vet about pet-safe pain options

Other Toxins Dangerous to Catss

🐕 Dogs version →🐰 Rabbits version →🐦 Birds version →🐹 Hamsters version →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ibuprofen (advil, motrin) toxic to cats?▼

Dangerous — can cause kidney failure and GI ulcers. Ibuprofen is extremely toxic to dogs and cats even in small doses. It causes stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and seizures. Never give human pain medication to pets.

What happens if my cat is exposed to ibuprofen (advil, motrin)?▼

Symptoms include: Vomiting (often with blood); Diarrhea (dark or bloody); Abdominal pain. GI symptoms within 2-6 hours. Kidney damage within 12-24 hours.

What should I do if my cat ingested ibuprofen (advil, motrin)?▼

Contact vet immediately. Induced vomiting if within 2 hours. Activated charcoal.

How can I protect my cat from ibuprofen (advil, motrin)?▼

Never give human pain meds to pets. Store all medications in closed cabinets. Pick up any dropped pills immediately. Ask your vet about pet-safe pain options.