Vitamin Supplements That May Harm Your Pet
- posted: Aug. 10, 2025
Vitamin Supplements That May Harm Your Pet
Many of us take vitamin supplements for our health. Sometimes, our pets need supplements, too. But, did you know, some common vitamins may actually be toxic to dogs and cats? Let’s explore some common supplements that need to stay out of reach of our four-legged friends.
- Vitamin D—Vitamin D supplements are typically used to improve calcium absorption for bone health and may improve muscle and aid the immune system. However, if dogs and cats accidentally ingest vitamin D, they can experience serious toxicity and high doses may even be fatal. As little as 1mg (1000 micrograms) i.e. four 25mcg tablets or capsules can be highly toxic to a 20lb dog. Cats are even more sensitive. High doses cause increased calcium in the bloodstream which damages the kidneys leading to increased drinking and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and decreased appetite. Severe toxicity can lead to respiratory issues, heart arrhythmias, GI bleeding, kidney failure and death. Symptoms can occur within 12-36 hours.
- Iron—commonly used to combat anemia in people, iron supplements can be toxic to dogs and cats. As little as 200mg (roughly four 65mg tablets) can cause symptoms in a 20lb dog. Higher doses can be fatal. Iron toxicity causes vomiting and diarrhea (which may contain blood), lethargy, elevated heart rate, shock, tremors, seizures, or coma.
- Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)-not a true vitamin, but this anti-oxidant has been used to protect cells from free-radical damage, to control blood sugar and to reduce symptoms of neuropathy in people. In pets, ingestion of ALA can cause vomiting, wobbly gait or weakness, low blood sugar, seizures and possible liver or kidney damage. Cats are more susceptible than dogs. As little as 60mg can be highly toxic to a 10lb cat.
- Zinc—often used to treat and lessen cold symptoms, zinc melts, lozenges and other formulations can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potentially more serious issues like anemia and kidney damage. High doses can lead to death. Zinc can also be found in coins like pennies, in hardware like screws, and in some sunscreen products and ointments.
If you think or know your pet may have accidentally ingested a vitamin tablet or capsule, a multi-vitamin containing any of these supplements, or an ointment or object containing zinc, call a pet poison control helpline (855-765-7661—usage fees apply) and have your pet seen immediately by your veterinarian or an ER. Keep all vitamins and medications out of reach of pets. Symptoms may not immediately be apparent and early intervention with accidental poisonings saves lives.
This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.
Location
Patton Veterinary Hospital
425 E Broadway
Red Lion, PA 17356
