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Acetaminophen in Vet Medicine - Facts and Information

Acetaminophen

Updated on September 10, 2024

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that can occasionally be used in dogs under veterinary supervision. Never give acetaminophen to cats, ferrets, hedgehogs or sugar gliders.

Acetaminophen

Summary

Used For: Analgesic, antipyretic

Brands: Tylenol®, APAP, Paracetamol

Species: Dogs, Mice, Rats, Gerbils, Hamsters, Guinea pigs, Chinchillas

Drug type: Pain-reliever

Prescription required: No

Pregnancy and lactation: Used cautiously in pregnant or lactating animals.

Side effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, liver damage, kidney damage, dry eye, methemoglobinemia

General description

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that is occasionally used in dogs and small mammals. It is not labeled in the USA for use in animals, therefore any such use is off-label. It can be used in combination products containing codeine, hydrocodone, or tramadol. It should never be used in cats, ferrets, hedgehogs, or sugar gliders.

Uses

Acetaminophen can be used in veterinary medicine to control pain and reduce fever in dogs and small mammals.

How it works

Acetaminophen relieves pain and reduces fever by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-3; Cox-1-v1).

Dosage

**Dogs**: 10 – 15 milligrams per kilogram orally every 8 – 12 hours. If using long term, give the lowest and least frequent dose possible. **Mice, Rats, Gerbils, Hamsters, Guinea pigs, Chinchillas**: 1 – 2 milligrams per milliliter in drinking water.

Forms

There are many different products of acetaminophen available. Acetaminophen is available in 160 milligram, 325 milligram, and 500 milligram tablets, capsules or caplets; 80 milligram chewable tablets; oral liquids in several different concentrations. Also 80 milligram, 120 milligram, 125 milligram, 300 milligram, 325 milligram, and 650 milligram rectal suppositories. Combinations with other analgesics (codeine phosphate, hydrocodone, tramadol, or oxycodone) are also available.

Storage information & handling

Acetaminophen tablets and liquid suspensions should be stored in a childproof container at room temperature in a location out of reach of animals.

What results can I expect?

Relief of pain and/or reduction of fever.

Missed Dosage

It is best to give the medication at the same time every day without skipping doses. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, facial and paw swelling, labored breathing, gray colored gums, and jaundice may be seen in cases of overdose. If you think your pet has had an overdose seek veterinarian care immediately.

Side effects

Acetaminophen is infrequently used in veterinary medicine, so information regarding possible side effects is limited. * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Decreased appetite * Liver damage with jaundice * Kidney damage * Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) * Methemoglobinemia

Contraindications

* Previous sensitivity * Do not use in cats, ferrets, hedgehogs, or sugar gliders * Liver disease

Drug interactions

Consult your veterinarian before using acetaminophen with any other medications, even vitamins and supplements. Barbiturates, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids, diazepam, doxorubicin, fenbendazole, isoniazid, phenothiazines, propylene glycol, and anti-coagulants may interact with acetaminophen.

Precaution

Acetaminophen must be avoided in cats, ferrets, hedgehogs, and sugar gliders at any dose due to significant toxicity. Acetaminophen should be given to dogs and some small mammals only under close veterinary supervision due to the potential for toxicity.

Laboratory considerations

May cause false-positive results for urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid.

Related Questions

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Unfortunately I'm having a little trouble understand your question as I'm not sure what you mean by "My dog I heated uses tampons..." I'm wondering if Bella ate a tampon or if you wanted to use one on her while she is in heat. I will answer both to be safe. If she ate a tampon, then yes this is a medical emergency and she has to see a vet now. Tampons can easily cause obstructions in the GI tract, especially since they are absorbent and can get large in the stomach from liquid in there. if Bella ate a tampon, you need to take her into a vet immediately to get it removed. If she is on heat, no you cannot use a tampon to control her bleeding. It's not safe to use at all, and are not meant for dogs. You can put a diaper on her to catch any bloody discharge. There are dog specific diapers online and at pets stores, or you can use one made of a human child. Just cut a hole in it for her tail. Hopefully this answers your question. If it doesn't, I'm sorry and ask you post again in the forum for free to it can get answered!

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Cats can develop what's called diabetic neuropathy, where their hindlegs become progressively weak. The best thing to do is try to get his diabetes under control as quickly as possible. Here is a link describing the conditon: http://www.diabeticcatcare.com/DCCCOK/Neuropathy.htm

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.