Booze Hounds: Can Pets Drink Alcohol?

A beer shared with your enthusiastic pup. Your favorite cocktail and your #1 cat. Sipping wine with wagging tails—sharing a toast with your soulful sidekick might sound cute or amusing, but before you start mixing the Manhattans for man, mutt, and mouser, let's explore why pets and alcohol don’t mix.

Myths vs. reality: Pets and alcohol exposed

Some pet parents might think a little sip of alcohol won't hurt their dog or cat, but the truth is, pets can't handle their liquor like we can. Even a small amount can lead to serious health issues. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions, once and for all.

Misconception 1: "A little beer won't hurt my dog."

Reality: False. A little beer may actually hurt your dog. In fact, even a tiny sip can cause big trouble. Dogs process alcohol much differently than we do, so they are much more sensitive to its effects. Their tolerance is basically zero.

Misconception 2: "Wine is safe for pets in small doses."

Reality: No. In fact, no type of alcohol is pet-safe. Wine, beer, and cocktails all pose significant risks, including alcohol poisoning. 

Misconception 3: "My pet can handle a little drink; they seem fine."

Reality: Just because your pet isn’t slurring their woofs or stumbling around right away doesn't mean they're in the clear. Symptoms may not be immediate, but alcohol can cause severe internal damage.

Behind the booze: Expert insights

Figo vet spokesperson, Nell Ostermeier, DVM, shares her expert insights on the dangers of alcohol for pets, helping you make informed decisions that prioritize your pet's health. She explains that pets face serious risks from even small amounts of alcohol, which are absorbed much faster in dogs and cats compared to humans. Even a tiny amount can cause severe side effects such as staggering, vomiting, and even collapse.

Are some alcoholic beverages 'safer' for pets than others or do they all lead to the same effects?

Dr. Ostermeier emphasizes, “No alcoholic beverages are safe for pets. Never, ever give your dog or cat any type of alcohol, beer, or wine!”

 How does a pet’s liver process alcohol, and how is this different from humans?

 “Alcohol is rapidly absorbed in the GI tract and spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream. It's metabolized by the liver and removed by the kidneys,” explains Dr. Ostermeier. Dogs and cats are very sensitive to alcohol, and even a small amount can lead to intoxication symptoms. Dehydration is also a concern. “Never give your dog (or cat) any type of alcohol, beer, cocktail, or wine!”

How can alcohol affect a pet's health in both the short and long term?

“Alcohol ingestion affects dogs similarly to humans, but dogs do not know what to expect,” says Dr. Ostermeier. The severity of the effects depends on the amount ingested and the pet’s weight. Symptoms can range from “mild staggering and lethargy to severe incoordination, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, hypothermia, and collapse.”

If a pet ingests alcohol, is there anything we can do to help them?

“You should contact your veterinarian immediately,” advises Dr. Ostermeier. “They can determine if the amount ingested is toxic and if supportive care is needed. If your dog or cat shows signs of intoxication, such as staggering or disorientation, go to your vet or an emergency facility right away. If less than 15 minutes have passed since ingestion, your vet can induce vomiting to remove the alcohol.”

How do vets treat alcohol poisoning in pets?

If less than 15 minutes have passed since ingestion, “your vet will induce vomiting.” For longer periods, treatments depend on the severity of symptoms. These may include “hospitalization with IV fluids, diagnostics for organ damage, and other supportive care until the alcohol is eliminated and your pet recovers.”

Sober truth: The risks of alcohol for pets

Dogs and cats are highly sensitive to alcohol, Dr. Ostermeier explains. The alcohol is quickly absorbed in their gastrointestinal tract and spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream. Their liver can't effectively process alcohol, leading to severe symptoms and high sensitivity.

When it comes to alcohol, our pets face the risk of some serious health hazards. Let’s break down the consequences they can face, and what happens in their little bodies with each drink.

1. Dehydration: Severe dehydration, worsening other symptoms.

2. Hypoglycemia: Dangerous drop in blood sugar levels.

3. Acidosis: Metabolic imbalance affecting body's pH.

4. Respiratory Depression: Slowed breathing, risk of respiratory failure.

5. Cardiovascular Issues: Impact on heart rate and blood pressure.

6. Organ Damage: Harm to liver and kidneys.

7. CNS Depression: Drowsiness, sedation, or coma.

8. Death: Potentially fatal in severe cases.  Understanding the grave consequences of alcohol ingestion in pets is crucial for every pet parent.

By being aware of these dangers, you can take the necessary precautions to keep your curious copilots safe.

Furry party foul: What to do if your pet gets tipsy

If your pet ingests alcohol, acting quickly is crucial. Here’s what you need to do to help ensure their safety.

• Immediate Action: Call your vet immediately. Time is of the essence. 

• Symptoms to Watch For: Look for signs of intoxication such as staggering, disorientation, vomiting, and lethargy. 

• Emergency Help: If symptoms appear, visit a vet or emergency facility immediately. 

• Induce Vomiting: If less than 15 minutes have passed since ingestion, your vet can induce vomiting to remove the alcohol. 

• Supportive Care: Treatments include hospitalization with IV fluids, diagnostics for organ damage, and other supportive care until the alcohol is metabolized and your pet recovers. 

By recognizing the signs of alcohol poisoning and knowing the steps to take, you can protect your pet from serious harm. Always keep alcoholic beverages out of reach and educate anyone who might come into contact with your pet about the dangers. Your vigilance can make all the difference in keeping your furry friend safe and healthy.

Cheers sans booze: Mocktails for mutts

You may be wondering, what are some safe alternative drinks that an owner can give their dog? According to our vet, dogs and cats should never drink alcohol. No matter how "cool" you think your pet is, giving them alcohol is just not a good idea.

If you do insist on having your dog join in on the libations, consider giving them a "dog beer." These pet-safe beverages contain no alcohol and are mostly water with bone broth. And if you want to experiment with new tastes together, try one of these pet-safe and people-pleasing drinks you can both enjoy! You can serve these alcohol-free drinks to your pet as a treat (in moderation, of course). It should not replace their actual diet, and if you're not sure about the ingredients, it's best to contact your veterinarian.

Remember, keep the booze for yourself. Your sidekick may be soulful but that doesn’t mean they need to be sipping on anything harder than water or the occasional “dog beer.” No matter how tempting it might be to let your furry friend join in on the fun and share your party beverages, it's just not worth the risk.

Let's keep our pets healthy and happy— Raise your glasses (but not for your pets) and cheers to that!

Annie Turner is the senior copywriter and editor for Figo Pet Insurance. Based out of Columbus, Ohio, she loves synonyms, enjoys painting rocks for her kids to hide in their garden of towering sunflowers, and rocks a mean messy bun.