Salt

Ingestion of large amounts of salt can cause sodium ion poisoning in pets. Products of concern include table salt, homemade play dough, paint balls, de-icing salts, sea water and baking soda.

In addition to dogs and cats, birds are also indicated for this toxicity.

Signs and symptoms of toxicity: Vomiting is most often the first clinical sign of toxicity. Others signs may include diarrhea, depression, lethargy, tremors, seizures, shortness of breath, and disorientation. These signs have been reported within 3 hours of ingestion.

Toxic Consumption: Toxicosis may occur with 2-3 g/kg of sodium chloride ingestion. Consumption of 4 g/kg can be fatal.

Dogs: Sodium Chloride Toxic Consumption
X-Small Yorkie, Chihuahua	Small Pug, Boston Terrier, Poodle	Medium Beagle, Scottish Terrier	Large Boxer, Cocker Spaniel	X-Large Retriever, German Shepherd	XX-Large Great Dane, St. Bernard
1 – 10 lbs. (0.45 – 4.6 kg)	11 – 25 lbs. (5 – 11.4 kg)	26 – 40 lbs. (11.8 – 18.2 kg)	41 – 70 lbs. (18.6 – 31.8 kg)	71 – 90 lbs. (32.3 – 40.9 kg)	91 – 110 lbs. (41.4 – 50 kg)
> 0.05 Tbsp	> 0.5 Tbsp	> 1.3 Tbsp	> 2 Tbsp	> 3.5 Tbsp	> 4.5 Tbsp

Cats: Sodium Chloride Toxic Consumption
Most Cats	Large Cats
1 – 10 lbs. (0.45 – 4.6 kg)	11 – 25 lbs. (5 – 11.4 kg)
> 0.05 Tbsp	> 0.5 Tbsp

References:
– Osweiler, G, et al. (2011). Blackwell’s five-minute veterinary consult clinical companion. Small Animal Toxicology. [Kindle version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com