Calcium chloride

What is calcium chloride?

Calcium chloride is a salt that consists of two parts chlorine and one part calcium. It is a white, crystalline powder that dissolves easily in water. Calcium chloride has various properties that make it useful for different purposes. For example

• It is a drying agent, i.e. it removes moisture from the environment. This makes it suitable for preserving food or drying gases, for example.
• It is a stabilizer that prevents other substances from decomposing or changing. This makes it suitable for the production of cheese or tofu, for example.
• It is a flavor enhancer that intensifies the taste of salty or sour foods. It is therefore suitable for the production of pickled vegetables or soy sauce, for example.

What effects does calcium chloride have on dogs?

Calcium chloride can have both advantages and disadvantages for dogs. Here are some examples:

Benefits:

• Calcium chloride can help meet the calcium needs of dogs suffering from a deficiency. Calcium is an important mineral for the health of bones, teeth and muscles in dogs. A deficiency can lead to weakness, tremors and bone fractures.
• Calcium chloride can help regulate the blood pH of dogs suffering from acidosis. Acidosis can lead to respiratory distress, vomiting or unconsciousness. Calcium chloride acts as a buffer and neutralizes excess acid in the blood.

Disadvantages:

• Calcium chloride can lead to a calcium overdose if it is administered in too large quantities or too frequently. An overdose of calcium can lead to kidney stones, cardiac arrhythmia or coma.
• Calcium chloride can cause irritation of the mucous membranes if it comes into contact with the eyes, nose or mouth. The irritation can lead to redness, swelling or pain.

How can you give your dog calcium chloride safely?

Calcium chloride is not toxic to dogs, but it is not a miracle cure either. It should only be given after consultation with a vet and in appropriate amounts. Here are some tips on how to give your dog calcium chloride safely:

• Only give your dog foods or products with calcium chloride that are suitable for dogs. Avoid foods or products with calcium chloride that are intended for humans or contain other ingredients that may be harmful to dogs.
• Only give your dog as much calcium chloride as recommended by your vet. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or label exactly. Do not exceed the recommended amount or frequency.
• Monitor your dog for possible side effects after administering calcium chloride.