PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate psoriasis cream (calcipotriene)? What to do
Psoriasis creams with calcipotriene act like strong vitamin D. Even a lick can cause dangerous calcium levels and kidney failure in dogs.
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 tube and bring it with you.
- Call even if your dog only licked it. Small amounts can be serious.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Not eating
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drinking and peeing more
- Low energy
- Weakness
When signs appear: Usually 1 to 3 days (often 24 to 36 hours)
Why
Calcipotriene is a man-made form of active vitamin D. Swallowing it can push blood calcium to life-threatening levels.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Calcipotriene
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonings from Human Prescription Drugs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicosis in Animals From Human Topical Agents
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.