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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
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Atomic Absorbance Spectroscopy to Measure Intracellular Zinc Pools in Mammalian Cells
Published on: May 16, 2019
Zinc intoxication in dogs: 19 cases (1991-2003)
Carolyn M Gurnee1, Kenneth J Drobatz
1Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5438, USA.
Summary
Zinc toxicosis in dogs commonly causes anemia and vomiting, particularly in young, small breeds. Prompt treatment offers a good prognosis, with most dogs recovering quickly.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Zinc toxicosis is a serious condition in dogs.
- Understanding its clinical presentation and outcomes is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify physical examination findings, clinicopathologic changes, and prognosis in dogs diagnosed with zinc toxicosis.
- To characterize the typical signalment and historical complaints associated with zinc toxicosis in dogs.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case series design was employed.
- Medical records of 19 dogs diagnosed with zinc toxicosis between 1991 and 2003 were analyzed.
- Data collected included signalment, clinical signs, clinicopathologic findings, zinc levels, treatments, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- The most frequent historical findings were vomiting and pigmenturia.
- All dogs (n=19) presented with anemia, and 12 had hyperbilirubinemia.
- The median age was 1.3 years, and the median weight was 5.6 kg.
- 17 out of 19 dogs survived, with a median hospital stay of 2 days.
Conclusions:
- Zinc toxicosis frequently affects young, small-breed dogs.
- Hemolytic anemia is a primary clinicopathologic change.
- The prognosis for dogs with zinc toxicosis is favorable with appropriate treatment, often involving a short hospitalization period.
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