Why is it risky?
Ethanol is rapidly absorbed in cats and produces CNS and respiratory depression at doses far lower than in humans. Cats have significantly lower body weight and different hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase activity, making them acutely sensitive. Even small amounts of beer, wine, or spirits cause serious toxicity. Fermented products (bread dough, overripe fruit) also generate ethanol in the GI tract.
Affected Systems
Nervous · Cardiovascular · Respiratory
Symptoms
Sedation, ataxia, disorientation, vomiting, slow or labored breathing, hypothermia, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, coma, death.
What To Do
Emergency vet. IV fluid support, temperature management, respiratory support as needed.
Notes
Raw bread dough is a particular concern, yeast ferments sugars in the warm stomach producing ethanol in situ, while the expanding dough causes additional mechanical gastric distress. Relevant products: kombucha, water kefir, some vinegars, mouthwash (ethanol-based). Dispose of unfinished alcoholic drinks before cats can access them.
Sources
→ ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — aspca.org
→ Merck Veterinary Manual — https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/toxicoses-from-household-hazards/toxicoses-from-alcohols-in-animals?query=ethanol