PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate 5-HTP supplements? What to do
5-HTP mood and sleep supplements can cause serotonin syndrome in dogs, with tremors, seizures, high temperature and even short-term blindness.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Keep the bottle and bring it with you.
- Call before signs start if you can. Vets have more options early on.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Wobbly walking
- Sleepiness or dullness
- Overreacting to touch or sound
- High body temperature
- Big pupils or short-term blindness
- Vomiting, diarrhea or crying out
When signs appear: 1 to 4 hours
Why
5-HTP is a building block of serotonin, a brain chemical. Too much can overload the brain and nerves, a problem called serotonin syndrome.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicoses in Animals From Human Dietary and Herbal Supplements
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisoning from Human Over-the-Counter Drugs
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.