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My cat got theophylline twice in 6 hours. Is it an overdose?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 10.5 lbs

Is it serious if my cat was dosed twice within 6 hours of theophylline SR 100mg?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 31st, 2017

Unfortunately, this could be serious. As I'm sure you know, this is an extended release product, and the typical dose is 100mg per cat every 24 hours, so yes, I believe you very well might see toxicity from this, including (on the mild side) excitement, hyperactivity, vomiting, and diarrhea, all the way up to seizures. You have a couple of options: you can call the ASPCA's toxin hotline at (888) 426-4435; they will charge you for the call ($45) but they keep an extensive database on all types of overdoses and will be able to tell you if this is a significant overdose. Your other option is to take Nox to an emergency clinic now to have vomiting induced, and have him treated for the ingestion. They will be able to administer activated charcoal to absorb any residual toxins in the gut as well.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Yes, it can be serious in that the serum level of the drug can reach toxic levels in the blood and can cause nausea, vomiting, insomnia, diarrhea, tremors, restlessness, and seizures. I would take Nox into an ER vet immediately. He will need supportive treatment to prevent any toxic effects from occurring, and the vet can provide them for him. These include inducing vomiting with a shot, charcoal administration, and monitoring of the heart rate, respiratory rate, fluid, and electrolytes.

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