Are you aware that something as seemingly innocuous as table salt can pose a major threat to the health of your pet? Sodium poisoning, often caused by ingesting too much salt or salty snacks, is an increasingly serious concern among pet owners. Not only can sodium poisoning potentially cause severe harm to our four-legged friends, but it’s also indicative of other underlying medical issues that need attention. Continue reading below to learn about how an excessive amount of sodium affects pets and what steps you can take if you suspect poisoning in your fur baby.
Salt Toxicity
There are different forms of salt found in many different places. You can use table salt for cooking, rock salt as a deicer during winter, find salt water at the beach, and that’s just the beginning. Due to its vast range, the risk factor of your pet encountering and ingesting it is high. Salt is an essential nutrient in animals’ diets like humans, but an excessive amount of salt can lead to poisoning.
Sodium Poisoning Symptoms
There are several telltale signs that your pet is suffering from sodium poisoning. Your pet may try to combat it themselves first by drinking fresh water. If this doesn’t help, then the symptoms can quickly worsen. If the symptoms are aggressive and left untreated, death can follow. Potential signs of sodium poisoning include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Incoordination
- Excessive thirst or urination
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
Treatment
If you suspect that your pet is experiencing sodium poisoning, immediately call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for medical assistance. Taking your pet to the veterinary clinic may be required. Your pet will need IV fluids and electrolytes to aid in hydration. If the poisoning is severe your pet may need to be hospitalized for further care and monitoring. Always monitor your pet’s environment to avoid any potential poisoning incidents.
