Birth-control pills

Q: What if my cat ate Birth-control pills?

Caution: Caution — a few pills usually cause stomach upset, not a hormone crisis. Still call if a pack is missing. Most combination oral contraceptives cause vomiting or diarrhea if a cat eats several tablets. They are not in the same league as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Iron-containing prenatal “vitamins” are a different, more serious product. Source: ASPCA.

Q: Is ADHD and stimulant medicines also safe for cats?

Dangerous: Dangerous — amphetamines and related stimulants cause life-threatening agitation.

Caution

Verdict

Caution — a few pills usually cause stomach upset, not a hormone crisis. Still call if a pack is missing.

Toxic principle: estrogen / progestin (usually GI upset at typical pill counts; not usually catastrophic)

Also called: contraceptive, the pill, birth control pills

Source: ASPCA · Verified 2026-08-13

Verdict

Most combination oral contraceptives cause vomiting or diarrhea if a cat eats several tablets. They are not in the same league as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Iron-containing prenatal “vitamins” are a different, more serious product.

Symptoms to watch for

• vomiting
• diarrhea

What to do

Count the missing pills. Call a vet or poison control if a large number disappeared or the product is a prenatal vitamin.

Related foods

ADHD and stimulant medicines

Dangerous

Dangerous — amphetamines and related stimulants cause life-threatening agitation.

Prescription

SSRI antidepressants

Toxic

Toxic in overdose — serotonin syndrome is an emergency. Do not start these at home.

Prescription

Thyroid medication

Toxic

Toxic in overdose — too much thyroid hormone or methimazole is a vet problem, not a home adjustment.

Prescription

Blood-pressure medication

Toxic

Toxic in overdose — the cat can become profoundly weak or collapse.

Prescription