Cats rarely ingest alcohol voluntarily, but they are very sensitive to alcohol toxicity. There are different types of alcohol that can cause intoxication in cats. Most cats will recover from intoxication without long-term consequences, but you should speak to a vet for specific advice. 

Alcohol intoxication is rare in cats, but may happen from liquors containing cream or from alcohol gels that stick to their coat. Windshield de-icers and antifreeze may contain a type of alcohol (methanol). There are also reported cases of alcohol intoxication from “natural” flea treatments that contain alcohol solutions in a spray bottle. The symptoms of alcohol poisoning are very similar to what we see in people, but small amounts cause severe intoxication in cats, and recovery takes longer. 

What causes alcohol poisoning in cats? 

The toxic dose of alcohol in cats is not well known, but even small exposures can cause severe symptoms. 

• With concentrated products like hand sanitisers or flea sprays, cats can sometimes intoxicate themselves simply by licking the product off their coat, or even from absorption through the skin. 

• Alcohol is quickly absorbed from the stomach into the blood, and from there it can reach the liver and brain, where it causes most of its damage. 

• Alcohol directly damages the cells in the gut lining and liver, and the nerve cells in the brain are particularly sensitive to being destroyed by alcohol. 

• Severe intoxications may cause coma and death, and long-term exposure may lead to liver problems or brain damage. 

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in cats

• Drooling

• Vomiting

• Confusion, disorientation or sleepiness

• Wobbly, stumbling movement

• Excessive drinking

• Excessive peeing

• Drop in body temperature

• Slow breathing

• Trembling

• Seizures

• Coma

• Death

Cats at higher risk for alcohol poisoning

• Any cat can be affected, but cats that already have liver problems are likely to be more severely affected.

Diagnosis of alcohol poisoning in cats

• Diagnosis is usually based on knowing about exposure and typical symptoms.

• General blood and urine tests may provide some clues. They are also useful in monitoring how the body is being affected by alcohol.

• Blood tests to rule out ethylene glycol poisoning may be recommended if this is a possibility.

Veterinary treatment of alcohol poisoning in cats

The first and most important step in treating intoxication is stopping the poison from entering the blood and organs. Unfortunately, this is very difficult to achieve with alcohol, given how quickly it’s absorbed.

If treatment can be started before symptoms develop, your vet may recommend emptying your cat’s stomach. This may not be safe to do once symptoms start. If the exposure was on the skin, bathing may be recommended instead.

• Most cases will need to be hospitalised for 8-12 hours. This is to ensure close monitoring and treatment of symptoms. Treatment usually includes intravenous fluids to maintain hydration, protect kidney function and help the body eliminate toxins.

• Antiemetics are often used to prevent continued vomiting and help the stomach settle.

• Anti-epileptic medications will be used if seizures develop.

• Activated charcoal is not thought to be beneficial, unlike with many other intoxications. 

Home treatment of alcohol poisoning in cats

Symptomatic treatment is important to prevent complications and to make sure your cat has the best possible chance of a full recovery.  If your cat has ingested or been exposed to alcohol, speak to a vet immediately for a detailed assessment and further advice.

Prevention of alcohol poisoning in cats

• Keep alcohol containing products safely stored and out of reach of your pets, especially if they have an enticing flavour or smell. 

• Alcohol-based flea products are generally not recommended due to the risk of intoxication, and also because they are less effective.

Living with alcohol poisoning in cats

• Most cats will recover fully from mild to moderate cases of alcohol poisoning if symptoms are treated promptly. 

• Severe or repeated exposure may lead to liver disease.

When to worry about alcohol poisoning in cats

Always speak to a vet immediately if you suspect your cat has ingested alcohol, so the risk can be assessed and treatment advice given. If your cat develops any of the following symptoms, see a vet as soon as possible:

• Severe vomiting or drooling

• Confusion or wobbliness

• Weakness or collapse

• Trouble breathing

• Seizures

• Excessive drinking and urination