Pet Toxin Reference

Ibuprofen

Severe
Dogs, Cats
Usually within hours; kidney injury may take longer
NSAID
Act now: Remove access immediately. Save the package, label, or plant photo. Call your veterinarian or a poison service right away; do not wait for symptoms. Go to an emergency clinic immediately if any signs are present or if a large/known exposure occurred.
Related Toxins

Quick Facts

Common Sources
Loose tablets, bottles in purses, nightstands, countertops
Highest Risk
Human NSAID tablets (high-dose accidental ingestion)
Category
Medication
Early Signs
Vomiting, drooling, poor appetite, abdominal pain
Emergency Signs
Bloody vomit, black stool, kidney failure, seizures, collapse
Call Your Vet
Call as soon as exposure is suspected, even if your pet seems normal.

Triage & Next Steps

Why this is dangerous
Ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney injury in pets, even when it seems like 'just one pill.'
Go to ER immediately if
Go now for collapse, repeated vomiting, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, marked weakness, severe drooling, pale gums, trouble urinating, or any rapidly worsening signs.
What not to do
Do not induce vomiting, give milk/oil/bread, or try home remedies unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to.
Prevention
Store all human medicines and supplements in closed cabinets, use pill organizers only in pet-inaccessible places, and never give a human medication unless your vet prescribed it.

This tool provides rapid educational guidance and is not a substitute for direct veterinary advice. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic promptly.

Reviewed by
Andrew Rocco, DVM

Dr. Rocco is a practicing small animal veterinarian with experience in emergency and urgent care medicine. PetToxin.com was built to give pet owners clear, evidence-based information about common toxin exposures.