Medicines
Is vitamin d supplements toxic to cats and dogs?
Also sold as cholecalciferol, vitamin D3, calcipotriol psoriasis cream
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicHigh-strength vitamin D supplements, some rat baits and psoriasis creams raise calcium to dangerous levels and cause kidney failure. Signs appear after 12–36 hours. Call a vet straight away.
By Maya HartIf your pet got into it
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now, even if your pet seems fine.
- Have the packet ready: the vet needs the name, strength and how much may be missing.
- Do not make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and loss of appetite
- Drinking and urinating more
- Weakness
- Kidney failure after one to three days
How much is dangerous
High-strength capsules (thousands of units each) can poison a small dog. Psoriasis creams are dangerous in small amounts.
Keeping it safe
- Store supplements in closed cupboards
- Wash hands after applying psoriasis creams before touching pets
The details
Vitamin D is essential in small amounts but has a narrow safety margin. Because signs are delayed, early treatment — before calcium rises — is much easier and more successful than treating kidney damage later.
Questions owners ask
Is vitamin d supplements toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic.
Is vitamin d supplements toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic.
How much is dangerous?
High-strength capsules (thousands of units each) can poison a small dog. Psoriasis creams are dangerous in small amounts.
What should I do if my pet got into it?
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now, even if your pet seems fine. Have the packet ready: the vet needs the name, strength and how much may be missing. Do not make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts