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Is Ibuprofen toxic to dogs or cats?

Category: Medication | Last reviewed: April 2026

Quick verdict

Dogs

EMERGENCY

Cats

EMERGENCY

Ibuprofen and dogs

EMERGENCY
Severity: Critical

Ibuprofen is one of the most common causes of pet poisoning. Dogs cannot metabolise NSAIDs the same way humans can. Stomach ulcers can develop rapidly, and kidney failure can follow with higher doses. Even 'low' doses from a dropped tablet require urgent vet attention.

Onset

1-4 hours

Symptoms

  • - vomiting
  • - bloody vomiting
  • - diarrhoea
  • - abdominal pain
  • - loss of appetite
  • - black tarry stools
  • - kidney failure
  • - seizures

What to do now

Emergency. Contact ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or rush to an emergency vet. Do not wait for symptoms. Early decontamination is critical.

Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.

Ibuprofen and cats

EMERGENCY
Severity: Critical

Cats are even more sensitive to ibuprofen than dogs. A single regular-strength tablet can cause life-threatening kidney failure in a cat. Cats lack the liver enzymes needed to metabolise NSAIDs safely.

Onset

1-2 hours

Symptoms

  • - vomiting
  • - abdominal pain
  • - loss of appetite
  • - kidney failure
  • - seizures
  • - rapid deterioration

What to do now

CRITICAL EMERGENCY. Rush to an emergency vet immediately. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) en route. Do not delay.

Data sources

Last reviewed: April 2026

Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.

Also see: Dog toxin hub | Cat toxin hub | Emergency guide
Not veterinary advice. If your pet has ingested any potentially toxic substance, call ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 immediately. For emergencies, contact your veterinarian. This site is educational only.