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My cat ate ibuprofen and is very sick. Should I take him to an emergency vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 11 months old | 3 lbs

My cat may have chewed a 200 mg ibuprofen gel tab. He threw up, no blood. He is crying, has uninated, ate little. But for the most part is curled up and crying. He is purring and seems uncomfortable. It's been 5 hours. I've given him water 10ml with oral syringe. Will this pass or so I need to take him to an emergency clinic? He will move and "talk" to me but seems like he is not feeling well.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on March 5th, 2017

Oh dear! Ibuprofen is quite toxic to cats, and can cause severe stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, and even kidney failure depending on the dose ingested. Since Buddy is having symptoms of a problem and seems very uncomfortable, I would definitely recommend taking him to an emergency vet right away. He/she can do some blood work to determine how serious the problem may be, and will probably also recommend hospitalization for IV fluids, stomach protectants, and supportive care for the next day or two to try and minimize the damage.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 23rd, 2017

    Hi there and thank you for your question. Giving ibuprofen to a cat can be very very toxic. Cats are extremely sensitive to NSAIDS in general (even veterinary Rx ones), so the Ibuprofen given is certainly a serious concern here. 700mg is a lot for one 8 lbs cat to ingest. Signs of ibuprofen toxicity would include vomiting, blood vomit, diarrhea, weakness, pale gums, lethargy, loss of appetite , seizures, and back tarry stool. Ibuprofen can cause GI ulcers, liver damage, and kidney failure. I would absolutely seek emergency veterinary care and treatment for her today, keeping in mind signs of toxicity may be delayed. They will need to give her IV fluids, check her kidney and liver function, give GI protectants, and monitor her vital signs. In the future, any OTC human pain medication is toxic to give to cats and is not okay to give to Willow. I hope Willow gets well soon. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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