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| Pet Toxin - Acetaminophen
Cats and dogs are curious animals. If you drop something and they see it, or if they find it later, they will check it out because you showed an interest in it. This is a very common cause of acetaminophen ingestion in pets.
Acetaminophen is a very common drug in most households. People use it for pain relief and fever reduction. It is not, however safe for your pets. Human doses are for measured for human weight. Most pets are much smaller, and can overdose easily on over the counter and prescription weight pills.
A condition called methemoglobinemiea affects the ability of blood cells to carry oxygen. In cats this is a direct result of ingesting acetaminophen. It can cause vital organs to suffocate. Liver damage is common and hard to detect before it becomes irreparable.
Cats lack a specific enzyme that allows them to metabolize the drug. This makes them especially sensitive to acetaminophen toxicity. Dogs and other pets can be affected as well. Never give this medication to your animals. Always store it securely out of reach of your pets.
If you think that your pet has accidentally ingested acetaminophen (or any other potentially harmful substance) call your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center hotline at 888-426-4435 for 24-hour assistance.
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