VeterUSA · Emergency triage
Did your cat eat acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, paracetamol) is also hidden in many cold, flu, and sinus medicines. Enter what you know for a risk level and what to do next — but for cats, any amount is a reason to call.
Acetaminophen is one of the most dangerous human meds for cats. Cats can't safely process any amount, and a single regular tablet can be fatal. There's an antidote that works best given early — don't wait for symptoms.
Common acetaminophen strengths
- Regular Strength Tylenol, 1 tablet325 mg
- Extra Strength Tylenol, 1 tablet500 mg
- Children's chewable, 1 tablet80 mg
- Children's liquid, 1 tsp (5 mL)160 mg
- Cold/flu combo dose (NyQuil, etc.)325–650 mg
Acetaminophen hides in many combination products (cold, flu, sinus, sleep aids). If unsure, check the active-ingredients panel or call a poison line.
Both helplines are staffed 24/7 by veterinary toxicologists. A consultation fee may apply. If your cat has brown or blue-grey gums, is breathing hard, or is collapsing, skip the calculator and go to the nearest ER now.