Paracetamol is one of the most popular pain relievers in humans. But not everything that is good for us humans is also the drug of choice for dogs. This is also the case with paracetamol because the drug can have serious side effects. You can find out here why paracetamol is so dangerous for dogs and what you have to consider when administering medication.
Can I Give My Dog Paracetamol?
- Paracetamol is not suitable for treating dogs.
- The drug can lead to severe symptoms of intoxication, liver failure, and even the death of the animal.
- Never give your dog medication without first consulting a veterinarian.
Paracetamol is toxic to dogs even in small amounts
Paracetamol is one of the best-known pain relievers in humans because it relieves pain, has an antipyretic effect, and is considered to be well tolerated. With dogs, however, things are different: Even an apparently low dose of 200 milligrams per kilogram of body weight can cause severe poisoning or even death. The symptoms usually only appear a few hours after ingestion. The same applies to the pain reliever aspirin and ibuprofen.
This is why paracetamol is so dangerous for dogs
Paracetamol is dangerous for dogs because of its liver-damaging effect. Unlike humans, dogs have difficulty breaking down the drug in the liver. This leads to symptoms of liver poisoning: the skin and mucous membranes become pale or yellowish and the face or paws swell. Difficulty breathing and vomiting can also occur. Without prompt treatment, liver failure and dog death can occur.
Warning: Paracetamol is poisonous for dogs!
Treating pain: paws off acetaminophen
It is understandable that you want to help your dog as soon as possible when he is in pain. However, do not make the mistake of resorting to your regular medicine cabinet. Instead of helping your dog, you can do serious harm. Make sure that medicines such as paracetamol are kept out of the reach of the dog so that your furry friend cannot secretly touch the tablets. To find the right therapy for pain, consult a veterinarian and strictly adhere to the guidelines for administering medication.
