What is serotonin syndrome?
Drugs such as SSRIs (fluoxetine/Prozac, sertraline), SNRIs and tricyclics raise serotonin levels. When a pet swallows too much, the excess causes agitation, tremors and a dangerously high body temperature — serotonin syndrome.
Why speed matters
Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.
Symptoms of antidepressants poisoning
- Restlessness, agitation, pacing
- Tremors or shaking, muscle twitching
- Very high body temperature, panting
- Vomiting, diarrhoea
- Seizures, severe rigidity (emergency)
What to do right now
- Call your vet or poison control immediately.
- Tell them exactly which drug and dose — many are different medicines under one name.
- Do not give anything else and do not try home treatment for "calming".
- Serotonin syndrome is treatable but needs urgent hospital care — fluids, cooling and specific medicines.
Sources & further reading
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
- Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
- Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
- Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance
Other poisonings with overlapping signs
- Decongestants (Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine) — shares signs: restlessness, vomiting, seizures
- Thyroid Medicines (Levothyroxine) — shares signs: restlessness, vomiting
- 5-HTP & Herbal Supplements — shares signs: vomiting, seizures
Owners also ask
- How can I prevent my dog from eating a decongestant tablet left on the party table?
- My dog only licked one of my thyroid medication tablets — is that still dangerous?
Frequently asked questions
Is Antidepressant (SSRI) Poisoning poisonous to a dog or cat?
Drugs such as SSRIs (fluoxetine/Prozac, sertraline), SNRIs and tricyclics raise serotonin levels. When a pet swallows too much, the excess causes agitation, tremors and a dangerously high body temperature — serotonin syndrome.
What are the symptoms of antidepressants poisoning?
Restlessness, agitation, pacing; Tremors or shaking, muscle twitching; Very high body temperature, panting; Vomiting, diarrhoea
What should I do if my pet ate Antidepressant (SSRI) Poisoning?
Call your vet or poison control immediately. Tell them exactly which drug and dose — many are different medicines under one name. Do not give anything else and do not try home treatment for "calming".
Not the substance you were looking for? Browse every answer.