What Can You Give A Cat For Pain?

If your cat is showing signs of pain, such as howling or hiding behaviors, you may feel understandably concerned and want them to feel better. 

So what can you give your cat for pain? Fortunately, there are several options a veterinarian can prescribe to provide pain relief to your pet.  

Here you will learn about commonly prescribed pain medications and the reasons why human over-the-counter medications should be avoided for your cat.  

What Can You Give a Cat for Pain?

Cats should only get pain medications that are prescribed or recommended by a veterinarian. The right treatment depends on the cause and severity of your cat's pain. 

Medications that are safely given to people can cause significant harm in cats because of the differences in the way these medications are processed by the body. Cats have a genetic mutation that interferes with their ability to process certain pain medications. This is why veterinary guidance is necessary to choose the correct medication and dosage for their safety. 

Veterinarians commonly prescribe the following pain medications to cats:  

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs): Medications such as robenacoxib can be given to cats to manage pain and reduce inflammation (swelling), especially when they have arthritis or have undergone surgery. 

• Opioids: Medications such as buprenorphine provide stronger pain relief than NSAIDs and are commonly given to cats who are in the postoperative period, who have traumatic injuries, or who have chronic pain. 
• Gabapentin: Cats who have chronic nerve, muscle, or bone pain may benefit from gabapentin as part of a treatment plan.  

• Corticosteroids: Medications such as prednisolone can reduce inflammation that contributes to pain in cats. 

If you are waiting to see a vet to discuss your cat’s pain and management strategies, you can provide them comfort at home in variety of ways:  

• Provide a soft, cozy blanket (such as the PetAmi waterproof blanket) or bed (such as the Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut bed) for your cat to rest on in a quiet, private area of the home. 

• Use a pet ramp (like the PetSafe CozyUp ramp) if they want to get to higher furniture or areas of the home.  

• Use a tall pet gate such as the Unipaws Extra Tall gate to block off stairs to avoid accidental falls and injuries.  

Can You Give a Cat Ibuprofen?

No, you should not give ibuprofen to cats.  

Ibuprofen is toxic to cats and can cause stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and other serious complications. Cats cannot metabolize ibuprofen, which contributes to its toxicity.  

Signs of ibuprofen toxicity vary based on the amount swallowed, and may include the following:  

• Vomiting (may contain blood) 
• Diarrhea or black, tarry stools 
• Decreased appetite 
• Abdominal pain 
• Increased thirst or urination 
• Seizures 
• Lack of coordination 
• Death 

If your cat eats ibuprofen, seek immediate veterinary care. A prompt diagnosis and treatment are very important to reduce absorption and prevent complications. 

Can You Give a Cat Tylenol?

No, you should not give Tylenol to your cat.  

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is highly toxic to cats and can damage red blood cells and the liver, even in small amounts. If a cat swallows Tylenol, it prevents their red blood cells from carrying oxygen to organs and other parts of the body. 

Symptoms of acetaminophen toxicity in cats include:  

• Abdominal pain 
• Vomiting  
• Diarrhea 
• Swelling in the legs or face 
• Blue-tinged gums 
• Rapid breathing 
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin 
• Weakness 

If your cat has eaten Tylenol, seek emergency veterinary care.  

If it has been a recent exposure, the veterinarian may induce vomiting and give activated charcoal to prevent absorption into the cat’s bloodstream.  

Additional treatment may include:  

• Hospitalization  
• Oxygen therapy 
• Intravenous (IV) fluids 
• Antidotes, such as acetylcysteine, to protect the liver and counteract toxic effects 

When To Call Your Vet

Cats often hide their pain until it becomes more significant. Signs of pain to watch for include: 

• Howling 
• Decreased appetite 
• Lethargy 
• Hiding 
• Behavioral changes, such as irritability  
• Obvious physical changes, such as limping 

Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 right away if your cat shows signs of pain. Seek emergency care immediately if they have swallowed ibuprofen, Tylenol, or another medication meant for human use.  

Before calling the veterinarian, be sure you know what medication was eaten (including strength), how much they ate, and how long ago your cat ate the medication.