Are Human Medications Safe for Pets? The Dangers Every Pet Owner Should Know

Our pets are curious creatures, and unfortunately, that curiosity can sometimes get them into trouble, especially when it comes to human medications. While our medicine cabinets are filled with pills and supplements that keep us healthy, many of them can be extremely dangerous (or even deadly) to our animal friends.

At DoveLewis, we see pets come in almost daily after getting into human medications. A dropped pill, an open bottle, or even a flavored tablet can be all it takes for a pet to get into something they shouldn’t. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pets safe.

Common Human Medications That Are Toxic to Pets

1. Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, Aspirin)

• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen and Naproxen) – These can cause gastrointestinal ulcers, kidney failure, and neurological symptoms (such as tremors or seizures) in pets. Even a small dose can be toxic.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – Highly toxic to cats, causing methemoglobinemia (which impairs oxygen transport in the blood) and liver damage. In dogs, toxicity usually occurs at higher doses, leading to liver failure.
• Aspirin – Can be prescribed to pets, but requires strict veterinary oversight. Toxicity can cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, and kidney damage.

2. Antidepressants (Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor, Lexapro)

• Pets are sometimes prescribed antidepressants, but in very different doses than humans. Overdoses can cause serotonin syndrome, which includes tremors, hyperthermia (high body temperature), and agitation. Effexor (venlafaxine) toxicity is particularly dangerous for cats, as they seem to be attracted to its taste.

3. Heart & Blood Pressure Medications (Beta-Blockers, Calcium Channel Blockers)

• Beta-blockers can cause dangerous bradycardia (low heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure), even in small amounts. Calcium channel blockers are even more toxic, potentially causing severe cardiovascular collapse.

4. Sleep Aids & Anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines, Ambien, Lunesta)

• These medications are designed to reduce anxiety and help people sleep better. But in pets, it can cause drowsiness, agitation, drooling, walking "drunk", tremors, and slow breathing.

5. ADHD Medications (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta)

• These stimulant medications contain amphetamines, which can cause hyperactivity, tremors, high blood pressure, dangerously high body temperature, and seizures.

Are Supplements & Vitamins Safe for Pets?

1. Vitamin D

• Found in supplements and some skin creams, they can cause hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood), leading to kidney damage and heart issues. Even small overdoses can be harmful.

2. Iron & Prenatal Vitamins

• Iron and prenatal vitamins, which contain high levels of iron, can cause severe gastrointestinal issues, shock, and liver failure. 

3. Xylitol (Common in Sugar-Free Supplements & Chewable Vitamins)

• It can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and liver failure in dogs. Even small amounts are extremely toxic.

4. Essential Oils

• Tea tree, eucalyptus, and wintergreen oils can cause drooling, unsteadiness, confusion, coma, and seizures in pets.
• Cats are especially sensitive, as their bodies can’t process many essential oils effectively.

Preventing Accidental Poisoning

• Store medications securely – Keep all meds & supplements in closed cabinets or drawers, out of your pet’s reach.
• Don’t store human & pet meds together – It’s easy to mix them up! Pet poison control hotlines often get calls from owners who accidentally gave their pet human medication.
• Be cautious with flavored medications – Some human medications or supplements (like ibuprofen or gummy vitamins) taste great to pets but can be toxic.
• Never give your pet human medication without veterinary approval – Even meds considered "safe" for people can be deadly for pets.
• Dispose of old medications properly – Pharmacy take-back programs are a great option to safely discard unused meds.

What to Do If Your Pet Ingests Medication

If you think your pet has ingested human medication or supplements, take action immediately:

• Call your veterinarian right away or seek emergency care at a 24/7 veterinary hospital like DoveLewis.
• Contact animal poison control for expert guidance:
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435 (24/7, fee applies)
  • Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661 (24/7, fee applies)
• Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you to. It may cause more harm if brought back up.

Keeping Pets Safe Starts with Awareness

Pets are naturally curious, and even the most cautious owners can experience an accidental ingestion. By keeping medications stored safely and understanding the risks, you can help keep your pet happy and healthy.

If your pet ever shows signs of poisoning, such as vomiting, tremors, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. DoveLewis is available 24/7 to help.