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How does lead poisoning affect animals such as dogs, birds, and cattle?

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A periodic table element box for lead (Pb) shows atomic number 82, atomic weight 207.2, electron configuration, and labels for symbol, name, crystal structure, and physical state, with a legend for color and symbol meanings. — lead Properties of lead.

Lead poisoning in animals, including dogs, birds, and cattle, occurs through the ingestion of lead-containing substances such as paint chips, improperly discarded batteries, oil, and grease. Additionally, waterfowl may ingest lead fishing sinkers or lead shot, while raptors can be exposed by preying on lead-contaminated rodents.1

The physiological effects of lead poisoning in animals are similar to those observed in humans. The metal accumulates first in soft tissues and eventually in the bones, causing damage to the gastrointestinal, renal, and nervous systems. Clinical symptoms vary widely and may include:1

Depression and lethargy1
Loss of appetite1
Dehydration1
Bloody diarrhea1
Anemia1
Seizures1
Death1

The International Union for Conservation of Nature has identified lead poisoning as a significant threat to specific wildlife populations, such as the Laysan albatross, which may ingest lead paint chips in their nesting environments.1