At high doses, iodide transiently inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and release (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). Also has antifungal activity against Sporothrix schenckii by unknown mechanism. Used for thyroid storm and sporotrichosis.
At a glance
Class
Iodine Supplement / Antithyroid Agent (Acute) / Antifungal
Storage
Store at room temperature; SSKI protected from light (turns brown on exposure); stable for years
Dosing
Drug of choice for canine sporotrichosis (combined with itraconazole for resista
Cats are extremely sensitive to iodide toxicity (iodism)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Signs of iodism (salivation, vomiting, dandruff)Thyroid function (T4)Serum potassiumClinical fungal response at 4 weeks
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Potassium Iodide?
Potassium Iodide is a iodine supplement / antithyroid agent (acute) / antifungal used in pets. At high doses, iodide transiently inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and release (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). Also has antifungal activity against Sporothrix schenckii by unknown mechanism. Used for thyroid storm and sporotrichosis.
›What is Potassium Iodide used for in pets?
Potassium Iodide is used in veterinary medicine for: Drug of choice for canine sporotrichosis (combined with itraconazole for resista; Cats are extremely sensitive to iodide toxicity (iodism).
›What is the Potassium Iodide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Potassium Iodide is typically dosed as follows — Drug of choice for canine sporotrichosis (combined with itraconazole for resista: 30–100 mg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Potassium Iodide dose for cats?
For cats, Potassium Iodide is typically dosed as follows — Cats are extremely sensitive to iodide toxicity (iodism): undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Potassium Iodide need a prescription?
Yes. Potassium Iodide is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database