Is Cats Safe?
Is Ibuprofen (Advil) Safe for Cats?
No — Ibuprofen (Advil) is toxic to cats.
Ibuprofen (Advil) is listed as toxic to cats by VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual; ASPCA APCC. The toxic component is Cats have limited glucuronidation and are far more sensitive than dogs; even a single tablet can poison a cat (stomach ulceration + acute kidney injury).. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Ibuprofen (Advil) away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Category | Medicine |
|---|---|
| Toxic principle | Cats have limited glucuronidation and are far more sensitive than dogs; even a single tablet can poison a cat (stomach ulceration + acute kidney injury). |
| Also known as | advil, motrin, nurofen |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting (± blood)
- Black stool
- Belly pain
- Pale gums
- Wobbliness
- Increased thirst/urination
- Jaundice
- Tremors
- Seizures. Never give
- Any exposure is an emergency
If your cat may have been exposed to Ibuprofen (Advil):
- 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 Ibuprofen (Advil) toxic to cats?
Yes. Ibuprofen (Advil) is reported toxic to cats by VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual; ASPCA APCC. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Ibuprofen (Advil)?
Reported signs include: Loss of appetite, Vomiting (± blood), Black stool, Belly pain, Pale gums, Wobbliness, Increased thirst/urination, Jaundice, Tremors, Seizures. Never give, Any exposure is an emergency.
What makes Ibuprofen (Advil) toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Ibuprofen (Advil) is Cats have limited glucuronidation and are far more sensitive than dogs; even a single tablet can poison a cat (stomach ulceration + acute kidney injury).. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Ibuprofen (Advil) 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 Ibuprofen (Advil)?
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).