Some drugs are OK, others are not; check with your veterinarian

Published on Page 9 of the September 4, 2013 issue of Morgan Hill Life:

Dr. Jeanne Haggerty-Arcay

Dr. Jeanne Haggerty-Arcay

Dr. Jeanne Haggerty-Arcay

It is common for owners to self-medicate their pets with human and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Pain medications, antacids, anti-diarrheals and antibiotics are commonly shared with four-legged friends. Although many veterinary drugs are the same as human drugs, there are very significant differences in dosing, drug interactions and species-specific toxicities. Dogs and cats are not small humans. The way they metabolize drugs is different and they have different sensitivities to drugs.

Antihistamines: Many OTC and prescription antihistamines are used, especially in dogs. However, dosages are different and dependent on the condition being treated. Talk to your veterinarian about what may be an appropriate drug and dosage for your pet.

Pain medications: It is far too common for pet owners to give their animals a dose of human pain medications to treat their pet. Human pain medications should never be given to your pet unless instructed by your veterinarian. A single dose of human pain medication is often fatal or life-threatening in a dog or cat. Cats are particularly susceptible to pain medications and can suffer from kidney failure, even after an appropriate dose of pain medication.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Dogs and cats are much more sensitive to acetaminophen toxicity than humans. Cats are much more sensitive than dogs because they lack the enzyme necessary to metabolize the drug, often leading to fatal toxicity. It is never used in cats.

Aspirin: Although once used as an inexpensive pain medication in animals, it is no longer used much due to the availability of much safer and more effective drugs. Aspirin can cause bleeding in the stomach and intestines and is generally not considered very effective.

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Midol): Ibuprofen is not safe for use in dogs nor cats. The dosage that may be effective for pain is too close to the toxic dose.

Narcotics: Although some narcotics are used in pets, many have severe side effects (anxiety, drowsiness, vomiting, urinary obstruction), especially in cats. Many are mixed with Tylenol, which can be toxic. Narcotics should never be given to your pet except under veterinary advice.

Antacids: Some OTC antacids are safe for use in pets. If your pets has a sensitive stomach, talk to your veterinarian about whether antacids may be beneficial for your pet.

Anti-diarrheals: Although some anti-diarrheals can be used in dogs and cats, OTC formulations are not recommended. Many are mixed with aspirin and the dosing differs from human use.

It is tragic to see a beloved pet unintentionally poisoned by their owner in an attempt to self-medicate. It is never safe to give your pet medications unless instructed by your veterinarian.

If it is after hours and you feel your pet needs medication, you should go to the closest emergency clinic. If your pet frequently requires medication, talk to your veterinarian about what may be appropriate to keep in his/her first aid kit. If your pet accidentally ingests medication, bring him/her and the medication to the veterinarian immediately.

Dr. Jeanne Haggerty-Arcay received her undergraduate degrees in Biology, Biochemistry and Spanish from the College of Notre Dame in Belmont. She then went on the graduate from U.C. Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002 with an emphasis in Mixed Animal Medicine. Raised in the Bay Area, she returned to continue practicing both large and small animal medicine. She has a special interest in comparative medicine and client education. She strives to provide her patients with individualized care in order to improve compliance and treatment outcomes. Outside of the profession, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three young children. She also enjoys running, cycling and plans to return to her equestrian pastime in the near future.