Is Sleep Aids Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Sleep aids (Ambien, benzodiazepines) are moderately toxic to cats and dogs — they cause sedation or paradoxical excitement and stumbling. Call a vet.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
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 Sleep Aids?
Sleep aids (Ambien, benzodiazepines) are moderately toxic to cats and dogs — they cause sedation or paradoxical excitement and stumbling. Call a vet.
Also known as: ambien, zolpidem, benzodiazepine, xanax, alprazolam, valium, diazepam, lunesta, eszopiclone, sleeping pill.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Sedation, drowsiness, and stumbling (ataxia)
- Paradoxical excitement or agitation (especially with zolpidem/Ambien)
- Vomiting and drooling
- Slow heart rate or breathing in larger amounts
🐈 In Cats
- Sedation and lethargy
- Stumbling and disorientation
- Drooling or vomiting
- Paradoxical excitement in some cases
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline.
- Note the medication name, mg strength, and number of pills, plus the time.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet directs it.
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:
- A large amount or multiple pills were eaten
- Severe drowsiness, stumbling, or inability to wake
- Agitation or unusual behavior (paradoxical reaction)
- Slow breathing or collapse
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sleep aids make my pet hyper instead of sleepy?
Yes. Paradoxically, some pets — especially dogs given zolpidem (Ambien) — become agitated, restless, or pace rather than sedated. This "paradoxical excitement" is a known reaction. Call a vet if you see agitation, stumbling, or any unusual behavior after ingestion.
Are benzodiazepines like Xanax or Valium dangerous to pets?
Human benzodiazepines can cause significant sedation, stumbling, and in larger amounts slow breathing and heart rate. They are sometimes used in veterinary medicine, but the human dose or a different drug can be too much. Call a vet with the name, strength, and number of pills.
What should I do if my pet ate a sleeping pill?
Call a veterinarian or poison hotline with the medication name, milligram strength, and number of pills. Keep the pet calm and watch for severe drowsiness, stumbling, agitation, or slow breathing. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11