Is Paracetamol Toxic to Cats?
Paracetamol — known as acetaminophen in the US — is one of the most dangerous common household medicines for cats. Paracetamol is toxic to cats at doses far smaller than a single human tablet.
Call your vet immediately
If your cat has eaten any paracetamol — including cold and flu remedies containing it — treat it as an emergency. Do not wait.
Why paracetamol kills cats
Cats cannot safely break down paracetamol. It converts to toxic metabolites that destroy red blood cells and damage the liver. A fraction of one 500 mg tablet can be fatal for an average cat.
Emergency symptoms
- Brown or blue-tinged gums (methaemoglobinaemia)
- Facial and paw swelling
- Lethargy and collapse
- Difficulty breathing
- Jaundice (yellow gums and skin)
UK-focused: common sources
Panadol, Calpol, cold and flu sachets, and combination painkillers often contain paracetamol. Check every ingredient label. Never use human pain relief for cats — ask your vet for cat-safe alternatives.
More medicine dangers
See our full human medicines toxic to cats guide for ibuprofen, aspirin, and more.