Symptoms of iron toxicity in dogs can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Rapid heartrate
- Low blood pressure
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
If you think your dog has eaten iron pills, call your veterinarian or the nearest animal poison control center immediately. Be prepared to provide the following information:
- The type of iron pill your dog ate
- The number of pills your dog ate
- The time your dog ate the pills
- Your dog's weight
- Your dog's age and breed
Your veterinarian will likely recommend some tests to assess your dog's condition and determine the best course of treatment. This may include blood tests, x-rays, and an ultrasound.
Treatment for iron toxicity may include:
- Giving your dog intravenous fluids to flush out the iron from its system
- Administering chelating agents to bind to the iron and prevent it from being absorbed
- Performing surgery to remove the iron from your dog's stomach or intestines
- Providing supportive care such as pain medication and anti-vomiting medication
Prognosis for iron toxicity depends on the severity of the poisoning and the promptness of treatment. Iron toxicity can be fatal if left untreated, but with early treatment, most dogs recover fully.
To prevent iron toxicity, keep iron pills and other medications out of reach of your dog. Be sure to store medications in a secure cabinet or drawer, and make sure your dog does not have access to your purse or backpack.