Is Cats Safe?
Is Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Safe for Cats?
No — Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is toxic to cats.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA APCC; VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual. The toxic component is Cats lack glucuronidation AND N-acetyltransferase, so they can't detoxify the reactive metabolite NAPQI — there is NO safe dose. Hidden in many combination cold/flu meds (Excedrin, NyQuil).. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Acetaminophen (Tylenol) away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Category | Medicine |
|---|---|
| Toxic principle | Cats lack glucuronidation AND N-acetyltransferase, so they can't detoxify the reactive metabolite NAPQI — there is NO safe dose. Hidden in many combination cold/flu meds (Excedrin, NyQuil). |
| Also known as | tylenol, paracetamol, panadol |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Brown/blue/grey gums (methemoglobinemia)
- Facial and paw swelling
- Fast/labored breathing
- Vomiting
- Low body temperature
- Dark urine
- Liver failure
- Death within ~18–36 h. One regular tablet can kill a cat. NEVER give — any exposure is a critical emergency
- Call a poison line on the way to the ER
If your cat may have been exposed to Acetaminophen (Tylenol):
- Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
- Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
- Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.
Cat-safe alternatives
Browse all Medicine for cats · or check another item.
Frequently asked questions
Is Acetaminophen (Tylenol) toxic to cats?
Yes. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA APCC; VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Acetaminophen (Tylenol)?
Reported signs include: Brown/blue/grey gums (methemoglobinemia), Facial and paw swelling, Fast/labored breathing, Vomiting, Low body temperature, Dark urine, Liver failure, Death within ~18–36 h. One regular tablet can kill a cat. NEVER give — any exposure is a critical emergency, Call a poison line on the way to the ER.
What makes Acetaminophen (Tylenol) toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is Cats lack glucuronidation AND N-acetyltransferase, so they can't detoxify the reactive metabolite NAPQI — there is NO safe dose. Hidden in many combination cold/flu meds (Excedrin, NyQuil).. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is dangerous to cats?
There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.
What should I do if my cat ate Acetaminophen (Tylenol)?
Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).