Allergic Reactions to Paracetamol in a Cat and its Therapeutic Management- A case report

Paracetamol chemically named N-acetyl-p-aminophenol, is a widely used over the counter analgesic and antipyretic. Paracetamol is extremely toxic to cats, which lack the necessary glucuronyl transferase enzymes required to metabolize paracetamol via glucuronidation pathway. A one year old house male cat was presented with history of lethargy and vomition at veterinary dispensary, South Gate, Madurai. Clinical examination of the cat revealed sub normal rectal temperature of 36.5°C and facial edema. Further history revealed that animal was given paracetamol for fever by the owner himself without the consultation of veterinarian. Based on the history and clinical observation, animal was treated with Inj. Chlorphenaramine maleate @ 0.5mg/kg B. Wt. IM and Inj. Ranitidine @ 1 mg/kg B. Wt. IM along with supportive therapy for three days consequently. Animal had an uneventful recovery.