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Treatment

Treatment for NSAID toxicity generally requires immediate hospitalization, especially for cats that have ingested large doses of NSAIDs and are exhibiting serious clinical signs such as frequent vomiting and anemia. Once hospitalized, your veterinarian will provide medication and fluid therapy, as well as blood transfusions if your cat is severely anemic. (Note: if NSAID toxicity has led to a perforated stomach ulcer, surgery may be necessary.) If your cat has mild symptoms, on the other hand, your veterinarian will adjust its diet (a bland, low-protein diet is recommended) and provide proper at-home medication.

Living and Management

After initial treatment is completed, various symptoms should be monitored. Stool and vomit should be checked for blood, which would indicate gastrointestinal bleeding that may not develop for several days. All medications should be administered regularly for the full time prescribed, and a bland low-protein diet adhered to.

Prevention

NSAID toxicity is avoidable. Store medication in a secure location out of your cat's reach and only medicate the animal under the supervision of a veterinarian. It is also important that high-risk patients (such as older animals or those with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding) be tested before beginning any sort of NSAID therapy.