Mary Allen
If your dog is in pain, of course every owner would like the dog not to have to suffer anymore. Therefore, the question quickly arises as to whether dogs can also take ibuprofen for pain relief.
After all, almost everyone has the painkiller in their own medicine cabinet. However, this is not a good idea. Unfortunately, ibuprofen is highly toxic to dogs.
In this article you will find out what effect ibuprofen has on the dog’s body and what symptoms can occur after ingestion.
In a nutshell: Can I give my dog ibuprofen?
No! For us humans, ibuprofen is a common medication to relieve pain. But for dogs, the drug is very harmful.
In no case should it ever take ibuprofen. Even small amounts of ibuprofen can cause major damage to dogs.
The spectrum of side effects ranges from poisoning to blood clotting disorders and damage to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys or intestines.
Why is ibuprofen toxic to dogs?
Human painkillers like ibuprofen and Co. are very concentrated. Due to the high concentration, they attack the inner mucous membranes of dogs.
This in turn leads to more pain. Instead of helping the dog with ibuprofen, the situation is made worse.
You should never be tempted to give your dog human painkillers. Instead, you should always use pain relievers prescribed by your veterinarian.
Interesting:
CBD is all the rage these days for relieving physical ailments and helping you relax. This health-promoting effect can also be observed in dogs.
CBD, a cannabidiol, has no intoxicating effect. Instead, it boosts the endocannabinoid system that dogs also possess. This system is responsible for good sleep, normal digestion and a balanced mood.
Taking CBD stimulates the EC system, which in turn can reduce pain. For example, CBD can be mixed in the form of powder with the feed of the four-legged friend.
Can my dog die from ibuprofen?
Dogs can die from ingesting ibuprofen. Because it can quickly lead to life-threatening poisoning after ingestion.
Already between 20 and 25 mg ibuprofen per kilo of body weight can pose a life-threatening danger for the dog.
In other words: if your dog weighs 20 kg, a normal 400 mg ibuprofen tablet is enough to trigger severe poisoning in your dog.
It is therefore important that you react quickly if your dog does eat ibuprofen.
Dog ate ibuprofen – what to do?
Despite all caution, it can happen that your dog has found and eaten ibuprofen. Fast action is required here.
As soon as you notice the situation or the first symptoms of poisoning appear, you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. He can then take immediate action.
If the ingestion happened recently, the vet will make the dog vomit. This prevents the painkiller from being fully absorbed.
If this is not sufficient, the dog is given additional activated charcoal.
Activated charcoal causes the active ingredients in the intestine to not be properly absorbed.
Sometimes an infusion is also necessary. Especially if your dog has already vomited, this can have a positive effect. The infusion keeps the dog’s circulation in balance.
Ibuprofen poisoning: recognize the symptoms
There are several signs that point to ibuprofen poisoning. The exact signs can vary in severity from dog to dog.
Ibuprofen hits the gastrointestinal tract in most dogs. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, for example. In many cases, this manifests itself in the form of vomiting and diarrhea.
Other signs include abdominal pain, excessive thirst, increased urination and abdominal pain. Neurological seizures can also be an indication of poisoning.
As a result, the internal organs of dogs can be damaged. These include, for example, the kidneys, liver, stomach and intestines.
What painkillers can I give my dog?
But what to do if the dog is in pain? If your dog is in pain, then you should take him to the vet. They can recommend the right pain reliever for your dog.
Your dog may also be prescribed strong prescription pain relievers after surgery or a serious illness. However, this is only necessary in exceptional cases.
For mild pain, over-the-counter painkillers can be used. These include Traumeel, Arnica and Hemp. These are homeopathic remedies and are safe for your dog.
Conclusion
Human painkillers are absolutely taboo for dogs. They can lead to severe poisoning and even become life-threatening for your dog.
Vomiting, diarrhea, severe thirst and urinary urgency are sure signs of poisoning. If you have these symptoms, you should see a veterinarian urgently to prevent worse consequences.
If your dog is in pain, you should use alternative, herbal painkillers. The effect is not that strong and is well tolerated by dogs.
Has your dog ever had to take painkillers?