Is Salt Toxic to Pets?
Yes — salt is toxic to cats. Yes — salt is toxic to dogs. Yes — salt is toxic to horses.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Toxic compound
- Sodium
- Toxic parts
- Playdough, salt dough ornaments, rock salt, sea water, large amounts of salty snacks
- Also known as
- playdough, salt dough
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Horses (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate salt
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your dog ate salt
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your horse ate salt
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your horse ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Large salt intakes cause vomiting, extreme thirst, tremors and seizures. Homemade playdough is a common cause.
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Frequently asked questions
Is salt toxic to cats?
Yes — salt is toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is salt toxic to dogs?
Yes — salt is toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is salt toxic to horses?
Yes — salt is toxic to horses. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Which parts of salt are toxic?
Playdough, salt dough ornaments, rock salt, sea water, large amounts of salty snacks.
What makes salt toxic?
Sodium.
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