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My newborn kitten got formula from a Motrin syringe. Is residue safe?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | 2 days old

I have one of my kittens about 48 hours old who didn’t seem to be nursing well, I wanted to give the kitten some formula through a syringe. All I had was a children’s Motrin syringe. I washed with soap and hot water before using it to give the kitten formula. But I soon realized that the outside still smelled like children’s Motrin a little bit. I’m wondering if any trace residue amounts of Motrin will harm my kitten? I soaked the syringe in hot water before I gave the kitten any more.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Davis

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 5, 2018

Since you washed it well I'm sure there wasn't medication left. Your kitten should be fine if there was a tiny amount on the syringe so I don't think it's anything to be overly concerned about. I'm glad you are supplementing the kitten so it doesn't get weak. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for your kitten.
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