© Kirrawee Veterinary Hospital FELINE DISEASES
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) poisoning
Acetinophen / Parcetamol is one of the most commonly used human
analgesics however it is extremely toxic to cats. Doses of 50mg/kg
can produce severe hemolytic anemia (rupture of red blood cells)
within one to two hours of ingestion. Clinically this presents as depression, salivation, and vomiting.
The most characteristic sign is cyanosis (blue gums) due to a
build up of methemoglobin in the blood. As the condition progresses
swelling of the face and limbs, breathing difficulties and seizures
may develop. Death can occur within 12-48 hours. N-acetylcysteine (Mycomyst) is a specific antidote given at 140mg/kg
orally or IV, followed by 70mg/kg every 6 hours plus supportive
treatment. Sodium sulfate 1.6% solution given at 50mg/kg IV every
4 hours is an alternative antidote. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
125mg every 6 hours may be given to help to reverse the methemoglobinemia
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