Toxic to cats · Foods

Is Salt toxic to cats?

Extreme severity

Not a classic poison, but a real health concern — best kept out of their diet.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Incoordination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Excessive urination
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Death

How vets treat it

Call a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately for life-saving treatment advice. Do not use salt to induce vomiting.

Why it's dangerous

Ingestion of excessive salt leads to hypernatremia, causing fluid shifts that result in gastrointestinal distress and severe neurological dysfunction.

Toxic compound: Sodium

Good to know

Common sources include homemade play dough, rock salt, paintballs, and enema solutions. Salt is no longer recommended as an emetic.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

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