Is Energy Drinks Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Energy drinks are severely toxic to cats and dogs — they pack caffeine, guarana, and sometimes xylitol. Even a small can is dangerous. Call a vet immediately.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Energy Drinks?
Energy drinks are severely toxic to cats and dogs — they pack caffeine, guarana, and sometimes xylitol. Even a small can is dangerous. Call a vet immediately.
Also known as: red bull, monster, rockstar, caffeinated drink, taurine drink, guarana.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Restlessness, panting, and hyperactivity
- Rapid or irregular heart rate and elevated blood pressure
- Vomiting and tremors
- Seizures and collapse in serious cases
🐈 In Cats
- Agitation and rapid heart rate
- Vomiting and muscle tremors
- Elevated blood pressure
- Seizures and collapse in serious cases
What to Do If Ingested
- Note the brand, size, and amount drunk.
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline immediately.
- Remove any remaining drink and clean spills.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Any energy drink was ingested
- Restlessness, panting, or a racing heart
- Vomiting or tremors
- Seizures or collapse
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are energy drinks worse than coffee?
Energy drinks are highly concentrated in caffeine and often add guarana (extra caffeine) and other stimulants, so a small can delivers a large dose. Some are also sweetened with xylitol, which is separately toxic to dogs. Treat any ingestion as an emergency.
How much energy drink is dangerous?
Because the caffeine and stimulants are concentrated, even a few ounces can affect a small pet. Call a vet with the brand, can size, and how much was drunk. Do not wait for symptoms.
What signs should I watch for?
Restlessness, panting, a racing or irregular heart, vomiting, and tremors, progressing to seizures in serious cases. Symptoms can appear within 1 to 2 hours.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11