Human over-the-counter medicines are prevalent in nearly every home, and while they tend to serve the health needs of people fairly well they can become a toxic tragedy for an unsuspecting family cat. Because of a cat's diminutive size and weight even small amounts of human over-the-counter medicines ingested can quickly result in death. Sadly, the treatments for toxic poisoning are rather limited, and many times a veterinarian can do little to help a cat once the damage is done.
The most common medicines that are toxic to cats are human commercial preparations designed to relieve symptoms of pain in ailments like the common cold or upset stomach. Less than a single tablet of aspirin can cause a cat to experience respiratory failure, glycosuria and hyperglycemia, and even in trace amounts can seriously harm a cat. Antihistamines and decongestants designed for human consumption can cause seizures and disorientation, seizures, tremors, changes in heart rate and severe vomiting in cats. Acetaminophen and phenacetin in quantities as small as one-half tablet can cause cellular death in a cat, resulting in vomiting and hypothermia followed by coma and death. Human over-the-counter medicines designed for digestive issues often contain one or more of the aforementioned drugs, and can be lethal to cats.
Other over-the-counter medicines that are toxic to cats includes peroxide and daily vitamins designed for humans. While a weak solution of hydrogen peroxide is a common remedy to induce vomiting in dogs, it can be fatal if ingested by a cat. Similarly, certain vitamins that are necessary for human health are toxic to cats, especially vitamin D in large amounts.
The best manner in which to store and use over-the-counter medications is to designate a singular room in the home, such as a bathroom, where all medicines are kept and ingested by humans in the home. A pet owner should never give any medication to a cat that has not been recommended and approved by a veterinarian, regardless of the situation. It is a common misconception that human over-the-counter medications in small doses given to a cat can help them while in distress, but the exact opposite is more closely related to actuality.
It is always a good idea in a home with a resident cat that everyone, including children, become educated on the negative impact of over-the-counter medicines on cat health. Emergency health situations involving a cat should be handled in much the same manner as those affecting humans, beginning with the immediate retention of professional assistance.
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