Discovering your dog has consumed too much Apoquel can be a frightening experience for any pet owner. Understanding the signs of an overdose and knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in your dog's recovery.
When used correctly, Apoquel helps manage itching and skin inflammation in dogs, but an overdose requires immediate attention. Let's explore what you need to know to keep your dog safe if this medication emergency occurs.
Top Questions About Apoquel Overdose in Dogs
Is an Apoquel overdose always an emergency?
An Apoquel overdose requires veterinary attention in all cases, though not always as an emergency. The severity depends on how much was consumed relative to your dog's weight. Minor overdoses might cause temporary digestive upset, while larger overdoses can suppress the immune system. Call a veterinarian right away if you suspect an overdose, even if your dog seems normal.
How do I know if my dog needs emergency care?
Your dog needs emergency care if they show severe vomiting that won't stop, unusual shaking, extreme low energy, or collapse after an Apoquel overdose. Pale gums, breathing problems, or seizures also warrant quick veterinary attention. Less urgent but still concerning signs include mild stomach upset or decreased appetite, which should be evaluated by a veterinarian soon.
Should I make my dog throw up if they ate too much Apoquel?
Never try to make your dog vomit without direct veterinary guidance. The decision depends on how recently the medication was consumed and your dog's current condition. Some situations make vomiting dangerous, such as if your dog is already showing unusual behavior or is extremely tired. Call a veterinary professional immediately for personalized instructions.
When should I drive to an emergency facility?
Drive to an emergency facility immediately if your dog shows severe symptoms like uncontrollable vomiting, breathing difficulties, collapse, seizures, or significant behavior changes. Call the emergency facility first to alert them you're coming. Even with milder symptoms, it's best to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian within a few hours.
Why an Apoquel Overdose Happens
Apoquel overdoses typically happen through accidental double-dosing when multiple family members each give medication. Dogs may also find and eat an entire bottle if medications aren't stored securely. Confusion about dosing instructions can lead to giving too much, especially when changing between different strengths. Always keep medications in secure containers and maintain a clear medication log to prevent these accidents.
Spotting Mild Cases
Mild Apoquel overdose cases may appear as slight low energy, temporary decreased appetite, or mild digestive upset. Your dog might seem a bit "off" but still respond normally to you. Even these subtle signs warrant a call to your veterinarian. Mild symptoms can sometimes progress to more serious issues, so continued monitoring is essential.
Recognizing Serious Cases
Serious Apoquel overdose cases require immediate veterinary attention and may include persistent vomiting, diarrhea with blood, extreme weakness, or collapse. Tremors, seizures, or confusion indicate a severe reaction requiring emergency care. Breathing difficulties, pale gums, or a racing heart rate are life-threatening signs. Don't wait to see if these symptoms improve – seek help right away.
What to Do
Step 1: Check the Medication Label
Locate the Apoquel bottle to confirm your dog's prescribed dose and compare it with what was consumed. Note the medication strength and estimate how many tablets were ingested. This information helps the veterinarian assess the severity and determine appropriate treatment.
Step 2: Call a Veterinary Clinic
Contact a veterinary clinic right away, even if your dog isn't showing symptoms yet. Describe what happened, how much medication was consumed, when it happened, and any symptoms your dog is showing. Ask whether you should bring your dog in immediately or watch them at home, and what signs would indicate a worsening condition.
Step 3: Watch for Symptoms
Watch your dog closely for any changes in behavior, energy level, or physical symptoms. Keep track of when symptoms started and whether they're getting worse. Look for vomiting, diarrhea, low energy, weakness, tremors, or breathing problems. This information helps veterinarians assess how the overdose is affecting your dog.
Step 4: Prepare for Safe Travel
If advised to bring your dog to a clinic, transport them safely and calmly. Place small dogs in a secure carrier and use a leash for larger dogs. Bring the medication bottle to show the veterinarian. If your dog is very tired or having seizures, place them on a flat surface for transport to avoid injury.
Potential Life-Threatening Conditions
Apoquel works by suppressing certain immune system functions, so an overdose can compromise your dog's ability to fight infections. This may allow infections to develop rapidly, particularly in dogs with existing conditions. Severe allergic reactions can cause breathing difficulties. Stomach bleeding or dehydration from persistent vomiting and diarrhea can also become life-threatening without quick treatment.
Helping Your Pet Before the Vet Visit
Offer Small Sips of Water
If your dog isn't actively vomiting, you can offer small amounts of water to prevent dehydration. Limit water to just a few laps at a time, waiting 30 minutes between offerings to ensure it stays down. Call your veterinary clinic for guidance on appropriate water amounts for your dog's size. Do not offer food unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional.
Keep Your Dog Calm
Keep your dog in a quiet, comfortable environment while waiting for veterinary care. Excessive movement can worsen symptoms and speed up the absorption of medication. Stay near your dog to monitor their condition, but avoid unnecessary handling that might cause stress. Keep other pets away to maintain a peaceful setting.
Preventing Future Overdose
Store all medications in secure containers placed well out of your dog's reach, ideally in a closed cabinet. Create a medication log or use a pill organizer to track when doses are given, especially in households with multiple caregivers. Set phone alarms as reminders for medication times. Consider asking your veterinarian about alternative dosing schedules if you frequently forget whether you've given medication.
We're Here to Help
We understand how frightening a possible Apoquel overdose can be for you and your dog. For mild symptoms like slight low energy or decreased appetite, contact your primary veterinarian for guidance. If your dog shows severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, breathing difficulties, or collapse, call an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. If you're not sure, call us — we can talk you through the situation.
Key Takeaways
- An Apoquel overdose requires quick action and professional veterinary guidance, even if symptoms seem mild initially.
- Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect an overdose, as early intervention can prevent serious complications.
- Keep all medications securely stored and maintain a consistent dosing schedule to prevent future medication accidents.
The information contained in the article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of the advice of a veterinarian.
