My cat ate ibuprofen, what should I do? - briefly
Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic, as ibuprofen is highly toxic to cats and requires urgent medical attention.
My cat ate ibuprofen, what should I do? - in detail
If your cat has ingested ibuprofen, immediate action is crucial due to the high toxicity of this medication to felines. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause severe gastrointestinal, kidney, and neurological damage in cats, even in small doses. The first step is to determine the amount of ibuprofen your cat consumed and the time of ingestion. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center immediately for professional guidance. Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a veterinary professional, as this can sometimes worsen the situation. Provide the veterinarian with details such as the cat’s weight, the amount of ibuprofen ingested, and any symptoms observed, such as vomiting, lethargy, drooling, or difficulty walking. Your veterinarian may recommend bringing your cat in for an emergency examination. Treatment typically involves decontamination methods, such as administering activated charcoal to absorb the toxin, and supportive care, including intravenous fluids to protect the kidneys and medications to address symptoms. Early intervention significantly improves the chances of recovery, so act quickly and follow your veterinarian’s instructions precisely. Keep all medications securely stored to prevent future incidents.