Characterization of incidental kratom exposure in companion animals

To describe exposure characteristics and clinical signs of companion animals following incidental exposure to kratom.

Cases were identified from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Animal Poison Control Center electronic database between February 2014 and December 2024. Geographic, exposure details and clinical variables were collected.

From 2014 to 2024, there were 139 animals (128 dogs, 9 cats, 1 pig, and 1 rabbit) that had incidental exposure to kratom. Oral ingestion was the primary route of exposure. Doses when available ranged from 1.2 mg/kg to 4,775 mg/kg (median 203.5 mg/kg). The most common clinical signs seen in dogs were lethargy/weakness/sedation, followed by vocalization and hypersalivation/lip licking. In cats, lethargy, mydriasis, and vocalization were the most reported clinical signs. The outcomes were unknown for most animals.

Incidental kratom exposure in companion animals may occur predominantly through ingestion with clinical signs in dogs consisting of lethargy, vocalization, and hypersalivation, while in cats, lethargy, mydriasis, and vocalization are most common. Because most cases had unknown outcomes, the long-term prognosis is unclear.

Veterinarians should consider kratom exposure in the differential for nonspecific lethargy, vocalization, or nausea, especially in states where kratom is legal.