Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat licked Icy Hot. Is it dangerous for cats? What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat licked icy hot. How concerned should I be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 3rd, 2015

Hi, and thanks for your question. I've looked up some information for you about Icy Hot. It contains menthol, which should be harmless, but it also contains salicylates, which are essentially the same as aspirin. This is potentially harmful to a cat, especially their GI tract and kidneys. Unfortunately I don't have any information about dosage - how much is definitely dangerous. I would contact an emergency clinic in your area, who can contact the Animal Poison Control line run by the ASPCA - they will hopefully have some information about previous Icy Hot ingestions in cats and they should be able to guide you.

Vote icon

49Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on December 20th, 2019

    The menthol in the patch will probably cause nothing worse than some minor stomach upset. The salicylates (basically aspirin) though, can be harmful if she licked enough of it off. The safest option would be to visit the nearest veterinary ER or contact an animal poison control resource, such as the Pet Poison Helpline, ( https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com ) to determine if Ashes is at risk of serious toxicity. Be sure to have the package with you whether you go to the ER or contact poison control. There is a fee associated with the call to the helpline.

    Vote icon

    4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?
Is your cat overweight? A certified vet offers guidance to help your tubby tabby lose weight. Get essential diet and food recommendations to slim down your cat!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Cat sick and still has fleas after vinegar treatment. What now?
Cat still scratching and not eating after vinegar flea treatment? A certified vet reveals why it fails and offers effective solutions for your cat and home.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My kitten had ringworm. Vet says in blood, untreatable, no meds?
Confused about your 6-month-old kitten's ringworm diagnosis, oral meds, or vaccinations? A trusted vet offers a second opinion on your pet's health concerns.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My cat has a weepy wound she keeps licking. Does it need stitches?
Is your cat's weepy wound concerning you? A certified vet offers guidance on home care, when to disinfect, and signs to watch for before seeking professional help.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my cat's chin abscess keep coming back after antibiotics?
Is your cat's chin abscess returning after antibiotics? A certified vet discusses why this happens, from resistant infections to foreign objects, and next steps.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored