TailVilleWhy
Seaweed has minerals and fiber, so plain unseasoned sheets can be a small treat. Seasoned gim is brushed with sesame or perilla oil and salt, which can upset the stomach and add too much sodium. Dried wakame or kelp eaten as-is can swell several times over in the gut and cause a blockage. Seaweed is high in iodine, so check with your vet first if your pet has thyroid disease.
How to give it / if eaten
Offer fingernail-sized pieces of plain roasted seaweed (the kind used for gimbap) now and then, keeping treats under 10% of daily calories. Give wakame only fully rehydrated and cooked without seasoning, and store dried seaweed out of reach.
Watch for these signs
Lots of seasoned gim can cause vomiting, diarrhea and heavy thirst. After eating dried seaweed, a swollen belly, repeated vomiting, retching or loss of appetite needs a vet right away.
FAQ
My dog ate a sheet of seasoned gim. Is that okay?
One or two small sheets usually aren't a problem; just make sure water is available. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea continues.
Can I give my pet seaweed soup (miyeokguk)?
Seaweed soup is made with soy sauce, garlic and salt, so don't share it. If you want to offer some, use a few strands of seaweed boiled without seasoning, chopped small.
General information only. Weight, age and health conditions change how a pet reacts, so ask your vet if you are worried.