Over-the-Counter Medication Risks for Cats

Many medications are available without a prescription. These are referred to as "over the counter" medications and include treatments for headaches, stomach aches, stuffy noses, diarrhea, and general pain. They are sold in grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores.

It is quite tempting to give this type of medication to your cat. After all, if it helps you feel better, it is bound to help your pet. Wrong.

Your pet's metabolism and organs function a little differently, and medication that may greatly improve your symptoms may be toxic to your pet.

Never give any medication without approval from your veterinarian. It's true that many medications available for people can help animals, but you must be careful to give the correct medication at the proper dose. It is important that you consult your veterinarian to avoid serious effects from overdose or toxicity of medications.

Dangerous Over-the-Counter Medications for Cats

Some of the most common over-the-counter medications can result in serious illness if not used properly. These medications include:

Toxicity Symptoms in Cats

There are a variety of signs of toxicity that depend on the type of medication taken, including:

To avoid these problems, consult your veterinarian before giving any medicine. Even if your pet has successfully taken the medication in the past, always check with your veterinarian first.