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Is paracetamol toxic to cats?

Also called: acetaminophen, Tylenol, Panadol, APAP, Dayquil, cold and flu tablets

Toxic

Extremely toxic to cats. Part of one tablet can kill.

Yes, extremely. Never give paracetamol (acetaminophen, Tylenol, Panadol) to a cat. Even part of a single tablet can cause severe poisoning and death.

Signs to watch for

  • Severe anaemia, difficulty breathing, a swollen face and paws, and liver failure.

Why it's dangerous

  • Cats can't break paracetamol down safely, so toxins form that damage the liver and red blood cells.

How cats get exposed

  • Combination productsParacetamol is in many combination medicines, such as some cold and flu products.

Sources

  • Paracetamol poisoning in catsInternational Cat Care · Read 9 October 2026
    For people, paracetamol is a mild painkiller, but for cats, paracetamol is extremely toxic.
    Even just part of a single tablet can cause severe toxicity and death in cats.
    toxins are produced that cause serious damage to their liver and red blood cells.
    If you have given your cat paracetamol, contact your veterinary team immediately.
    signs of paracetamol poisoning can usually be seen within 4 hours, but almost always within 6-24 hours.
    If you’re worried your cat may be in pain, make an appointment with your veterinary clinic.
  • Acetaminophen Toxicity in CatsVCA Animal Hospitals · Read 9 October 2026
    Acetaminophen should never be given to a cat under any circumstances .
    Acetaminophen may be the only ingredient in a medication or be part of a combination product containing other medications.
  • Household Hazards – Toxic Hazards for CatsVCA Animal Hospitals · Read 9 October 2026
    fatal to a cat that ingests just one tablet, resulting in severe anemia, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and paws, and liver failure.
  • Acetaminophen Poisoning in CatsPet Poison Helpline · Read 9 October 2026
    Cats are particularly susceptible to acetaminophen poisoning because of their inefficient metabolism of the drug.
    Acetaminophen can be found in medications such as Tylenol, Dayquil, Percocet, etc.

Information from International Cat Care, VCA Animal Hospitals and Pet Poison HelplineSources checked 9 October 2026

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