How does paracetamol affect cats? - briefly
Paracetamol is highly toxic to cats due to their inability to metabolize it effectively. Even small amounts can lead to severe liver damage and potentially fatal conditions such as acute hepatic necrosis.
How does paracetamol affect cats? - in detail
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a commonly used over-the-counter medication for humans to treat pain and reduce fever. However, its effects on cats are quite different and can be extremely harmful. Cats lack certain liver enzymes that are crucial for metabolizing paracetamol safely, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences if ingested.
When a cat is exposed to paracetamol, the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream through the gastrointestinal tract. In humans, the liver metabolizes paracetamol primarily through glucuronidation and sulfation pathways, which convert it into non-toxic metabolites that are then excreted by the kidneys. Cats, however, have a significantly reduced capacity for these metabolic processes due to lower levels of specific liver enzymes, particularly UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT).
As a result, a larger proportion of paracetamol in cats remains unmetabolized and circulates in the bloodstream. This leads to the accumulation of a toxic metabolite called NAPQI (N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine), which is produced by the cytochrome P450 system. In humans, this metabolite is typically detoxified by glutathione, an antioxidant that binds to and neutralizes NAPQI. However, in cats, the limited availability of glutathione makes it challenging for the body to effectively counteract the toxic effects of NAPQI.
The accumulation of NAPQI in cat tissues, particularly in the liver, causes oxidative stress and damage to cellular structures. This can lead to severe liver injury, including hepatocellular necrosis (death of liver cells), which can progress to acute liver failure if left untreated. Symptoms of paracetamol toxicity in cats may include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the buildup of bilirubin).
If a cat ingests paracetamol, immediate veterinary care is crucial. Treatment options may include inducing vomiting to prevent further absorption of the drug, administering activated charcoal to bind any remaining paracetamol in the gastrointestinal tract, and providing supportive care such as intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and support liver function. In severe cases, specific antidotes like N-acetylcysteine (NAC), which helps replenish glutathione levels, may be administered to mitigate the toxic effects of paracetamol.
In conclusion, while paracetamol is a safe and effective medication for humans, its use in cats can have devastating consequences due to differences in liver metabolism. Cat owners should always consult with a veterinarian before administering any human medications to their pets, and ensure that all potentially harmful substances are kept out of reach.