Emergency? Call now - do not wait for symptoms.
Is ADHD Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse) toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Medication | Last reviewed: June 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
EMERGENCYCats
EMERGENCYADHD Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse) and dogs
Amphetamine and methylphenidate stimulants are dangerous to pets at tiny doses. Signs of poisoning can appear at about 0.2 mg/kg of amphetamine (Adderall) in dogs and 0.5 mg/kg of methylphenidate (Ritalin) - well below a single human tablet. They cause agitation, a dangerously high heart rate and body temperature, tremors and seizures. Extended-release formulations prolong the effect.
Onset
30 minutes to a few hours; longer for extended-release
Symptoms
- - agitation
- - hyperactivity
- - dilated pupils
- - tremors
- - racing heart
- - high blood pressure
- - overheating
- - seizures
- - vomiting
What to do now
Emergency. Rush to an emergency vet. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) en route. Bring the packaging and note if it is extended-release.
Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.
ADHD Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse) and cats
Cats are even more sensitive - signs can appear at roughly 0.1 mg/kg of amphetamine. The mechanism and emergency are the same: dangerous overstimulation of the heart and nervous system.
Onset
30 minutes to a few hours
Symptoms
- - agitation
- - dilated pupils
- - tremors
- - racing heart
- - high blood pressure
- - overheating
- - seizures
What to do now
CRITICAL EMERGENCY. Rush to an emergency vet immediately. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) en route.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - Pet Poison Helpline - Amphetamines
- - Merck Veterinary Manual
Last reviewed: June 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.