My dog ate vitamin d supplements / psoriasis creams (calcipotriene) — what should I do?
🚨 RED — Go to an emergency vet NOW
Raises calcium dangerously -> kidney failure. Calcipotriene creams are extremely potent.
What to do now
- Call an emergency vet or animal poison control right now, even if your dog seems fine — signs can be delayed.
- Head to the nearest emergency vet; call ahead on the way.
- Remove any remaining material and keep packaging/labels — the vet will want product names and amounts.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control expert tells you to.
- Note the time it was eaten, roughly how much, and your dog's weight.
Why it's a problem
Raises calcium dangerously -> kidney failure. Calcipotriene creams are extremely potent.
Symptoms to watch for
Vomiting, thirst, urination, weakness, kidney failure.
When: 12-36 hours
Frequently asked questions
Is vitamin d supplements / psoriasis creams (calcipotriene) dangerous for dogs?
Yes. Raises calcium dangerously -> kidney failure. Calcipotriene creams are extremely potent. Treat it as an emergency and contact an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately.
What are the symptoms if my dog ate vitamin d supplements / psoriasis creams (calcipotriene)?
Vomiting, thirst, urination, weakness, kidney failure.
How soon do symptoms appear after a dog eats vitamin d supplements / psoriasis creams (calcipotriene)?
12-36 hours
What should I do if my dog ate vitamin d supplements / psoriasis creams (calcipotriene)?
Call an emergency vet or animal poison control right now, even if your dog seems fine — signs can be delayed. Head to the nearest emergency vet; call ahead on the way.
Who can I call for help?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, both 24/7 (fees may apply), or your nearest emergency vet.
Dose guidance
Merck: cholecalciferol >0.5 mg/kg warrants monitoring; calcipotriene is toxic at microgram doses. Any amount = RED at home.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)
- Pet Poison Helpline: cholecalciferol
- Pet Poison Helpline: calcipotriene
Last verified against these sources: 2026-10-13. Where sources disagree, PawPanic uses the more conservative guidance.
Also known as: cholecalciferol, calcipotriene, dovonex, vitamin d3 · Category: Medication · Last reviewed 2026-10-14