Is Soy Sauce Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Soy sauce is moderately toxic to cats and mildly toxic to dogs due to its very high sodium content. See symptoms and what to do.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Usually minor, but watch for symptoms.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Soy Sauce?
Soy sauce is moderately toxic to cats and mildly toxic to dogs due to its very high sodium content. See symptoms and what to do.
Also known as: soy, tamari, shoyu.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐈 In Cats
- Salt (sodium ion) poisoning
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Lethargy and "walking drunk"
- In severe cases: tremors or seizures
🐕 In Dogs
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Mild sodium ion imbalance with small amounts
- Vomiting or diarrhea with larger amounts
What to Do If Ingested
- Offer plenty of fresh water right away.
- Wipe any sauce off the fur or face.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Vomiting that will not stop
- Lethargy or weakness
- Tremors, stumbling, or seizures
- A large amount was ingested (more than a lick)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a small amount of soy sauce hurt my cat?
A tiny lick is unlikely to cause serious harm, but soy sauce is extremely salty, and cats are small. Larger amounts can cause sodium ion poisoning with vomiting, lethargy, and in severe cases tremors or seizures. Offer water, watch closely, and call a vet or poison hotline if you see any symptoms.
Why is soy sauce worse for cats than dogs?
Cats are generally smaller and more sensitive to sodium imbalances than dogs, so the same spill reaches a toxic dose more easily. The high salt can quickly upset their electrolyte balance.
What about low-sodium soy sauce or tamari?
Low-sodium and tamari versions still contain far more salt than is safe, and tamari is wheat-free soy sauce, not salt-free. Treat any of them the same way: small taste = monitor, larger amount = call a vet.
Should I make my pet throw up after eating soy sauce?
No. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison control professional specifically tells you to. Giving water and calling a hotline for guidance is the safer first step.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11