Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) rodenticide and supplements in Pets

Vitamin D3 rat bait and supplements can damage a pet's kidneys from as little as 0.1 mg/kg. Convert grams of bait or IU to mg/kg and compare it with the 0.1 mg/kg at which signs can begin.

What It Is

Cholecalciferol is vitamin D3. In large amounts it raises calcium and phosphorus in the blood so much that minerals deposit in the kidneys, heart, blood vessels and stomach. It is used as a rodenticide and is also found in high-strength human supplements.

Where Pets Come Across It

Rodenticide baits (usually 0.075%, or 0.75 mg per gram), high-dose vitamin D capsules and drops, psoriasis creams containing calcipotriene (a related compound), and some plant fertilisers.

Which Animals Are Affected

Dogs most often; cats are also sensitive. Rabbits, birds and horses can be affected.

Published Toxic Dose

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, clinical signs may occur at doses as low as 0.1 mg/kg, and soft-tissue mineralisation is expected above 0.5 mg/kg. Reported acute lethal doses (13 mg/kg) and LD50 values (88 mg/kg) are much higher, but serious illness and death occur well below them. Vitamin D labels use IU: 1 mg = 40,000 IU.

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) rodenticide and supplements Dose Exposure Calculator

Enter your pet's weight and estimated quantity missing to compare against veterinary literature thresholds.

Affected Species Dog (Canine) Cat (Feline)

Pet Body Weight

kg lb

Total Ingested Dose (mg)

Or Enter Total International Units (IU) 1 mg cholecalciferol = 40,000 IU.

Calculating...

Signs and How Soon They Appear

Merck notes that signs and laboratory changes often develop 12 to 48 hours after ingestion: vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness, heavy drinking and urination, and later blood in vomit or stools and kidney failure. Pets that stay normal with normal calcium for 72 to 96 hours are not expected to become ill.

What to Do Right Now

Call a vet or poison line straight away with the product name and strength. Your vet may want blood calcium checks over several days. Do not induce vomiting at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources and References

• Merck Veterinary Manual: Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Poisoning in Animals
• Pet Poison Helpline: Cholecalciferol

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