Cat Health
Can I Give My Cat Ibuprofen UK?
Quick answer
**Never give ibuprofen (Nurofen) or any human painkiller to a cat.** Cats are extremely sensitive to ibuprofen — **even one tablet can cause fatal kidney failure**. If your cat swallowed any human medication, phone your vet or **Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000** immediately. Only use medicines prescribed by your vet.
Key takeaways
- No — never give ibuprofen, Nurofen, or any human NSAID to a cat. Cats cannot safely metabolise ibuprofen. Even one tablet can cause kidney failure and death.
- Cats are far more sensitive than dogs. A single 200 mg ibuprofen tablet can be fatal to an average cat. There is no safe human dose.
- Vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, increased thirst, and collapse. Kidney failure may develop rapidly. Early treatment is critical.
The full picture
Causes, home monitoring, treatment options and the exact signs that mean call your vet — in the complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I give my cat ibuprofen for pain?
- No — never give ibuprofen, Nurofen, or any human NSAID to a cat. Cats cannot safely metabolise ibuprofen. Even one tablet can cause kidney failure and death.
- How much ibuprofen is toxic to cats?
- Cats are far more sensitive than dogs. A single 200 mg ibuprofen tablet can be fatal to an average cat. There is no safe human dose.
- What are signs of ibuprofen poisoning in cats?
- Vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, increased thirst, and collapse. Kidney failure may develop rapidly. Early treatment is critical.
- What should I do if my cat ate ibuprofen?
- Phone your vet or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 immediately with tablet strength and number eaten. Do not wait for symptoms — early treatment saves lives.
Reviewed 2026-07-19 against UK veterinary guidance · Information only — not a substitute for seeing your vet.