UK Veterinary Charity PDSA Warns Against Ibuprofen and Paracetamol Use in Pets

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), the leading veterinary charity in the United Kingdom, has issued a national alert that ibuprofen is toxic to all pets and paracetamol is highly dangerous for cats. The warning follows viral TikTok and other social‑media clips that encourage owners to give these human medicines to dogs and cats.

Veterinary surgeon Cat Henstridge, who advises over 400,000 followers online, stressed that “Ibuprofen is 100% off the menu for all pets and paracetamol is very toxic for cats.” PDSA vet Catherine Burke added that animals process medications differently from humans, making otherwise safe drugs potentially life‑threatening. The charity cautioned that such misinformation can delay proper veterinary care and urged pet owners to always consult a vet before trying any home‑treatment seen online. PDSA operates 49 pet hospitals across the UK and provides detailed guidance through its Pet Health Hub.