Is Ivermectin horse paste Safe for Cats?
Why it’s a problem
Cats are exceptionally vulnerable to ivermectin overdose, and paste formulated for horses leaves no margin for error. Signs include dilated pupils, drooling, tremors, stumbling, apparent blindness, and seizures, which can progress to coma and death. Cats are exposed by licking a dropped dab of paste or grooming it off another pet.
How to keep your pet safe
Store horse dewormers in closed tack boxes away from all pets, and clean up any paste a cat could find. Never use horse products on a cat — feline parasite control should come only from a veterinarian. If a dog in the home was treated with any ivermectin product, keep the cat away from its mouth and fur.
Warning signs to watch for
Dilated pupils, drooling, tremors, stumbling, apparent blindness, slow breathing, seizures, coma.
When to call the vet
Treat any known or suspected exposure as a same-hour emergency: call a veterinarian or pet poison hotline immediately. Neurological signs can worsen over hours, so early professional care is the cat’s best chance.
Common questions
My cat licked horse ivermectin paste — will it die?
It can — cats are extremely sensitive to ivermectin overdose, which causes neurological damage and can be fatal. Call a veterinarian or pet poison hotline immediately, before symptoms begin.
Is a tiny amount of horse paste safe for a cat?
No. There is no self-dosed amount — feline parasite treatment should only ever be a veterinary product at a veterinary dose.
More medications hazards for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).