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My dog ate magnesium pills. Is it an emergency? What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | 2 years and 1 month old | 80 lbs

My dog ate a bottle of magnesium pills (146 400mg ea.) and the preservative container. He’s 80lbs

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 29th, 2018

The amount ingested calculates out to about 1600mg/kg. This is a potentially toxic dose.
Ideally, Cooper should be examined by your veterinarian or at the nearest veterinary ER. Either can induce vomiting via injection since the ingestion occurred less than 2 hours ago. Activated charcoal may be given afterwards to further reduce absorption.
Excess magnesium may cause gastrointestinal upset, depression or negative cardiac or nervous system effects.
You can also contact the Pet Poison Helpline. There will be a fee for the call. They will work with you and your veterinarian to help Cooper through this episode. Their number is 855-764-7661.

9Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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