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My Chihuahua puppy ate a lot of tuna. Is mercury poisoning a risk?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | 3 years old | 2 lbs

Hi my small Chihuahua puppy ate a ton of Tuna. Will she have mercury poisoning?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 16th, 2018

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Mercury poisoning happens over a long time, so it is very very unlikely for her to have Mercury poisoning. Tuna however can be very 'rich' and if it was in oil and not water, then it is very fatty. I would just watch Minnie for gastritis (vomiting, diarrhea, painful abdomen). If this occurs she might need to go to the vet, but otherwise she should be fine. Best of luck with Minnie.

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    Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 16th, 2018

    Hello and welcome back! I wouldn't worry about the Mercury poisoning, that is more a chronic ingestion problem. Since the tuna was in oil, she is liking going to have gastritis or pancreatitis from this oil She might have some vomiting or diarrhea. You can feed her boiled/boneless/skinless chicken breasts with boiled rice in small frequent meals to try to treat the gastritis. If she has severe vomiting or diarrhea please bring her to your vet. Best of luck with Minnie!

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