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Salt (Excessive)

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Salt (Excessive)

Additives

Toxic Dog
Excessive salt causes sodium ion poisoning — vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures. Keep salty snacks away.
Toxic Cat
Cats are sensitive to excess sodium. Causes similar toxicity as in dogs.
Toxic Bird
Birds are extremely sensitive to salt. Even salted crackers can be dangerous.
Toxic Reptile
Excess salt disrupts electrolyte balance. Never add salt to reptile food.
Caution Horse
Horses need salt (salt licks are normal) but excessive amounts with restricted water is dangerous.
Toxic Rabbit
Excess salt causes kidney damage. Never feed salty human snacks.
Toxic Small pet
Fatal to small pets in even moderate amounts due to tiny body mass.
Toxic Ferret
Excess salt causes sodium toxicity. Avoid all salty human snacks.

If your pet ate something dangerous

  1. Stay calm. Note what your pet ate, how much, and when.
  2. Call your vet or emergency animal hospital immediately.
  3. Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 A consultation fee may apply.
  4. Call Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 A consultation fee may apply.
  5. Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.
  6. Bring packaging or a sample of what was ingested to the vet.

About SafeBite

SafeBite is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your pet new foods, especially if your pet has known allergies, health conditions, or dietary restrictions. Toxicity can vary by species, breed, size, age, and individual health. When in doubt, contact your vet or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Data sources: ASPCA, FDA, Pet Poison Helpline, and peer-reviewed veterinary literature.