Can Dogs Drink Alcohol? Beer & Wine Risks for Pets (AU)
Emergency
If your pet has eaten this, contact your local vet now. After hours, call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
What it means for dogs and cats
πΆ Dogs
Dangerous β do not feed
Alcohol is rapidly absorbed and can depress a dogβs nervous system and breathing. Keep alcoholic drinks and foods containing alcohol away; contact your vet promptly after suspected exposure because effects vary by product and animal.
π± Cats
Dangerous β do not feed
Alcohol is rapidly absorbed and can depress a catβs nervous system and breathing. Keep drinks and foods containing alcohol away, and contact your vet promptly after suspected exposure.
Where Australian pets run into it
At barbecues, parties and holiday meals, pets may reach unattended drinks, spills or food. Keep glasses and leftovers beyond their reach.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Incoordination
- Depression
- Difficulty breathing
- Tremors
What to do
Contact your local vet now and describe the product and when it was accessed. You can also call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 for Australian triage advice.
What to say when you call
My (dog/cat) weighs about __ kg. About __ hours ago they ate __ (how much). Symptoms so far: __.
Common questions
Can a dog have a lick of beer?
No. Alcohol can be toxic to animals. Contact your local vet promptly if your dog may have swallowed any.
My cat drank alcohol β what should I do?
Contact your local vet promptly and describe what and when your cat drank; alcohol can cause poisoning.
Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets β ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- What are common household dangers for pets? β RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase
Content checked against these sources on 2026-10-10.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your local vet.