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 |
|---|---|
| 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.
Source: ASPCA APCC; VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual ↗
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 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).