Is Ibuprofen Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Ibuprofen is severely toxic to both cats and dogs, causing stomach ulcers and kidney failure. Cats are more sensitive. 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 Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is severely toxic to both cats and dogs, causing stomach ulcers and kidney failure. Cats are more sensitive. Call a vet immediately.
Also known as: advil, motrin, nuprin, nsaid, midol ib.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood or "coffee-ground" material
- Diarrhea and loss of appetite
- Stomach ulcers and abdominal pain
- Kidney injury: increased thirst, then reduced urination
🐈 In Cats
- Vomiting and drooling
- Stomach ulcers and abdominal pain
- Kidney failure (cats are especially sensitive)
- Lethargy and reduced appetite
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline immediately — do not wait for symptoms.
- Note the strength (mg per pill) and how many were eaten, plus the time.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to — ibuprofen is absorbed quickly.
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 ibuprofen was eaten
- Vomiting, especially with blood or "coffee-ground" material
- Reduced or absent urination
- Lethargy, belly pain, or loss of appetite
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ibuprofen is dangerous to a dog or cat?
Pets are far more sensitive to ibuprofen than people. Even one or two human pills can cause stomach ulcers and kidney damage in a small dog or cat. The toxic dose depends on weight, so call a vet or poison hotline right away with the milligram strength and number of pills eaten.
What are the signs of ibuprofen poisoning?
Vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, loss of appetite, and belly pain are early signs from stomach ulcers. Kidney injury can follow, shown by changes in thirst and urination. Severe cases cause lethargy and weakness. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before calling.
Should I make my pet throw up after eating ibuprofen?
Not on your own. Ibuprofen is absorbed quickly, and inducing vomiting can sometimes do more harm. Call a veterinarian or poison hotline first — they will tell you whether vomiting should be induced and what to do next.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Toxicology
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poisons
- America's Poison Centers — Annual Reports (NPDS)
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11