Cat Survives Overdose After Ingesting Canine Medication

Tangerine exhibited immediate distress, including squinty eyes and an elevated third eyelid, prompting his owner to contact the Pet Poison Helpline. Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist, noted that the facility has seen a rising volume of calls regarding Apoquel, a medication that poses significant risks to cats or dogs who ingest doses beyond their prescription. While the drug is therapeutic for canine skin conditions, the quantity ingested by the cat threatened his liver, kidneys, and white blood cell count.

The feline spent two days at the Veterinary Care and Emergency Specialist South in Indianapolis. Medical staff utilized intravenous fluids, liver support, and intensive monitoring of his cardiovascular health to flush the toxins from his system. Dr. Schmid emphasized that without this aggressive treatment, the ingestion would likely have resulted in fatal, irreversible organ damage. Tangerine has since made a full recovery, serving as a stark reminder for pet owners to store all medications in secure locations inaccessible to curious animals.