Can Cats Be Given Paracetamol for Pain Relief?

Cats feel pain just as humans do, and when they seem uncomfortable or injured, many owners naturally reach for the medicine cabinet. However, human paracetamol is extremely dangerous for cats and should never be given under any circumstances.

This guide explains why paracetamol is toxic to cats, the symptoms of poisoning, safe alternatives, legal considerations, and what to do if your cat is in pain or has already ingested the medication.

Can Cats Take Paracetamol?

Cats must never be given human paracetamol. Even a very small amount can be life-threatening.

Cats lack a specific liver enzyme needed to break down paracetamol safely. Because of this, the drug builds up rapidly in their system and causes severe cell damage.

A single tablet can be fatal.

Why Paracetamol Is Extremely Toxic to Cats

Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is one of the most dangerous human medications for cats. Their liver is not able to metabolise the drug in the same way humans do.

Paracetamol causes:

• Damage to red blood cells, reducing oxygen-carrying ability
• Methemoglobinaemia, a condition where blood cannot carry oxygen effectively
• Liver failure
• Fluid build-up in chest and face
• Breathing difficulties
• Severe organ damage

Cats are estimated to be around seven to ten times more sensitive to paracetamol than dogs.

How Little Is Dangerous?

The toxic dose for cats is incredibly low.

• One 500 mg human tablet can kill a cat
• Even half a tablet can cause fatal poisoning
• Small kittens or elderly cats are even more vulnerable

Because the safe dose is effectively zero, owners must never attempt to calculate or administer paracetamol at home.

Symptoms of Paracetamol Poisoning in Cats

Symptoms may begin within hours, but sometimes they develop slowly over 24–48 hours.

Common signs include:

• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Swollen face, paws, or limbs
• Brown, blue, or purplish gums (lack of oxygen)
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale gums
• Lethargy or collapse
• Hypothermia
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Dark urine
• Unwillingness to eat

These symptoms indicate a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Why Cats Cannot Safely Process Paracetamol

Cats lack an essential liver enzyme called glucuronyl transferase, which is required to break down paracetamol and its byproducts. Without this enzyme, toxic compounds build up quickly, causing:

• Liver cell destruction
• Damage to red blood cells
• Severe oxidative stress

This is why even tiny amounts are dangerous.

Are There Any Situations Where Vets Use Paracetamol for Cats?

Unlike with dogs, vets never prescribe paracetamol for cats. There is no feline-safe formulation, and the risk is far too high.

Human Paracetamol Products That Are Even More Dangerous

Certain paracetamol products contain additional substances that are also toxic to cats, such as:

• Paracetamol with caffeine
• Paracetamol with codeine
• Soluble or effervescent tablets (salt toxicity risk)
• Flavoured or chewable forms (may contain xylitol)

All of these increase the danger dramatically.

What to Do If Your Cat Is in Pain

If your cat appears to be in pain, never try to medicate them yourself.
Cats hide pain well, so visible symptoms often mean the problem is already significant.

Signs of pain include:

• Hiding
• Reduced appetite
• Limping
• Growling or hissing when touched
• Licking one area excessively
• Reluctance to jump or move
• Changes in behaviour or aggression

If you suspect your cat is in pain:

1. Keep them calm and comfortable
2. Do not give human medication
3. Contact your vet as soon as possible

Pain in cats can stem from injuries, arthritis, dental problems, urinary issues, inflammation, or infections. A vet must assess the underlying cause.

Safe Pain Relief Options for Cats

There are several medications licensed for use in cats that vets may prescribe, such as:

• Meloxicam (an anti-inflammatory)
• Robenacoxib
• Buprenorphine (a strong pain reliever)
• Gabapentin (for nerve pain)
• Injectable pain medications

These are safe only under veterinary supervision and must be dosed carefully.

What to Do If Your Cat Has Swallowed Paracetamol

This is an emergency. Take action immediately.

1. Contact your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital
2. Tell them:
   • How much was eaten
   • When it happened
   • Your cat’s weight
   • Any symptoms you are seeing
3. Do not attempt to make your cat vomit
4. Do not wait for symptoms to appear
5. Bring the medication packaging if possible

Treatment may include:

• Antidotes such as N-acetylcysteine
• Oxygen therapy
• Intravenous fluids
• Blood transfusion in severe cases
• Liver-protective medication
• Intensive hospital monitoring

The sooner treatment is started, the better the chance of survival.

Legal Considerations in the UK

Under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, it is illegal to administer prescription-only medications to animals without veterinary guidance.

If a cat is harmed because they were given inappropriate human medication, there may be legal or insurance implications.

Key Points for Cat Owners

• Paracetamol is highly toxic to cats
• Even half a human tablet can be fatal
• Cats cannot metabolise paracetamol safely
• Vets never prescribe paracetamol for cats
• Safe veterinary pain relief is available
• Emergency care is essential if ingestion occurs

Conclusion

Human paracetamol must never be given to cats. It is one of the most dangerous medications for feline health and can cause fatal poisoning even in very small doses. If your cat is in pain or has swallowed paracetamol, seek veterinary help immediately.

Only a vet can diagnose the cause of your cat’s discomfort and prescribe safe, effective pain relief. Quick action can save your cat’s life and prevent unnecessary suffering.