What makes it harmful
cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) — drives calcium and phosphorus so high that organs calcify and the kidneys fail
How much is dangerous
By Merck Veterinary Manual: toxic doses are far below the acute lethal dose (~13 mg/kg; LD50 ~88 mg/kg). As little as ~0.1 mg/kg can cause poisoning (VetGirl). About 1 tablespoon of cholecalciferol rat bait is toxic to a 40 lb dog. Human vitamin D drops/pills are a common accidental source.
Symptoms to watch for
Mild / early
- • Vomiting
- • Loss of appetite
- • Lethargy
- • Drooling
Severe — vet urgently
- • Increased thirst and urination (within 72h)
- • Kidney failure
- • Soft-tissue mineralization
- • Sluggish heart rate
- • Death
What to do if eaten
Treat as an emergency — call a vet or poison control immediately if vitamin D supplements or cholecalciferol rat bait are swallowed. The half-life is ~29 days, so treatment is long; early care is critical.
Frequently asked questions
- Can dogs eat vitamin d overdose?
- Dangerous — vitamin D (cholecalciferol) in rodenticides or human supplements causes fatal high calcium. By Merck Veterinary Manual: toxic doses are far below the acute lethal dose (~13 mg/kg; LD50 ~88 mg/kg). As little as ~0.1 mg/kg can cause poisoning (VetGirl). About 1 tablespoon of cholecalciferol rat bait is toxic to a 40 lb dog. Human vitamin D drops/pills are a common accidental source.
- What happens if a dog eats vitamin d overdose?
- Symptoms can include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, drooling, increased thirst and urination (within 72h), and more. Severity depends on the amount and your dog’s size.
- What should I do if my dog ate vitamin d overdose?
- Treat as an emergency — call a vet or poison control immediately if vitamin D supplements or cholecalciferol rat bait are swallowed. The half-life is ~29 days, so treatment is long; early care is critical.
Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual · Pet Poison Helpline · VCA Hospitals.
⚠️ For general guidance, not veterinary advice. Toxicity depends on your dog’s size, the amount eaten, and individual sensitivity. Always confirm with your vet for health decisions.