Caffeine & Stimulants
Caffeine Pills/Espresso: Safe for Dogs and Cats?
If your pet ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
EmergencyDogs
Concentrated caffeine sources like pills and espresso deliver far more stimulant per bite than a cup of coffee, and ingestion should be treated as an emergency.
Toxic principle: caffeine (methylxanthine)
Watch for
- vomiting
- restlessness
- panting
- rapid heart rate
- muscle tremors
- seizures
EmergencyCats
Cats are more sensitive to caffeine than dogs, so a caffeine pill or spilled espresso shot warrants the same emergency response.
Toxic principle: caffeine (methylxanthine)
Watch for
- vomiting
- restlessness
- panting
- rapid heart rate
- muscle tremors
- seizures
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.