ADVIL / NSAID TOXICITY (IBUPROFEN, NAPROXEN, ASPIRIN)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
NSAIDs designed for humans can cause GI ulcers, vomiting blood, kidney failure, and sometimes seizures in dogs and cats. Even one dose can be toxic.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD OR SELF-LIMITING CAUSES (COMMON)
• Accidental lick of a dropped pill (may still be dangerous)
MEDICAL CAUSES THAT NEED DIAGNOSIS (MODERATE CONCERN)
• Small single dose
• Early vomiting or lethargy
EMERGENCY CAUSES (HIGH CONCERN)
• Repeated dosing
• Vomiting blood
• Black stool (melena)
• Kidney failure signs
• Seizures (high doses)
RED FLAGS: WHEN THIS IS AN EMERGENCY
• ANY ingestion of ibuprofen or naproxen
• Vomiting blood or black tarry stool
• Collapse
• Seizures
If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Seek immediate veterinary care
• Bring pill bottle for dose assessment
• Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed
These steps do not replace a veterinary exam if symptoms continue or worsen.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Induce vomiting if appropriate
• Activated charcoal
• Kidney values
• GI protectants
• IV fluids
• Anti-ulcer medications
• Hospital monitoring for 24–72 hours
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES (BASED ON 40 YEARS OF CASES)
• NSAID toxicity
• GI ulceration
• Kidney injury
BREEDS OR AGES AT HIGHER RISK
• Cats (extremely sensitive)
• Senior pets
• Dogs with kidney disease