Is Antidepressants (SSRIs) toxic to cats?
No. Human antidepressants — especially SSRIs like fluoxetine, sertraline, and citalopram — can cause serotonin syndrome in cats. Ingestions are genuine emergencies.
If your cat has just eaten antidepressants (ssris)
- Move your cat away from the antidepressants (ssris).
- Don't try to make your cat vomit — this is dangerous in cats.
- Note the drug name, strength, and number of tablets eaten.
- Call your vet or emergency vet immediately.
- If you can't reach a vet, call ASPCA Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) — paid triage, 24/7.
What's the full picture?
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and other antidepressants are very commonly involved in accidental pet poisonings because they are so widely prescribed. Cats are particularly susceptible.
Serotonin syndrome — agitation, tremors, high temperature, rapid heart rate, seizures — can develop within 1–8 hours.
Symptoms to watch for
Emergency vet treatment for poisoning typically costs $800–$3,000 in the US. Pet insurance covers it — and you can get a quote in under 2 minutes.
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About this guidance
Every entry on this site is compiled from published US veterinary toxicology sources — AAFP, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA APCC) references, AVMA-registered practice materials, and peer-reviewed feline medicine literature. Where the evidence is mixed, we err on the cautious side because cats are unusually sensitive to many common substances that are harmless to humans and even to dogs.
This is general information written for US cat owners. It is not personalised veterinary advice for your specific cat, their age, weight, medical history, or the exact exposure you're dealing with. If your cat has eaten something or is unwell, call your vet first. The ASPCA Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 is available 24/7 for a small fee and can tell you whether an emergency visit is needed.
Entries are reviewed and updated as new research emerges. Spotted an error? Let us know — corrections are investigated and applied within 24 hours. For more context on how we work, see about and our full disclaimer.
Last reviewed: · By the Cat Ate It editorial team