As Halloween approaches, the scariest thing may be what your dog eats!
Most dog parents know that chocolate is dangerous to pets. What many may not know, however, is that many foods, candies and common products contain xylitol.
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that has a very low glycemic index, and has benefits to the oral health care of humans. Unfortunately, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs, and even a small amount can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar called hypoglycemia, and other medical problems.
Dog owners should read labels carefully before giving any human treats to their pets. Xylitol isn’t always listed as an ingredient. Xylitol is just one of several sugar alcohols used in foods and other products, and often labeled “sugar alcohol” or “birch sugar” or “natural sugar.” Some common products that may contain xylitol are sugar free gum, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Foods that also can contain xylitol include baked goods, some peanut butters, drink powders, candy, pudding, ketchup, barbecue sauces, and pancake syrups. Xylitol also appears in medications, especially those called “meltaways” or “fastmelts” and chewable vitamins.
Xylitol Toxicity
According to Dr. Nancy Kay, DVM, DACVIM, xylitol toxicity can occur after a dog consumes a significant amount of xylitol (0.1 gram or more of xylitol per kg of the dog’s body weight), there is a massive release of insulin from the pancreas. This, in turn, results in a dangerously low blood sugar level and symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, trembling, seizures and collapse.
Treatment of xylitol toxicity in dogs
Emergency treatment is warranted after a dog consumes xylitol. Transport your dog to a nearby veterinary clinic or 24-hour emergency hospital right away. Be sure to take the label of the consumed product with you. Time is always of the essence when treating xylitol toxicity. If vomiting can be successfully induced within the first 30 minutes or so (before the xylitol leaves the stomach), the problem may be solved. Otherwise more intense treatment may include hospitalization with round-the-clock care.
Again, Dog owners should read labels carefully before giving any human treats to their pets or leaving food within their reach.
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, xylitol pet poisoning cases more than doubled over the last 5 years. In 2020, xylitol poisoning calls to the Helpline were second only to regular chocolate poisoning calls.
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More About Pet Poison Helpline
Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based in Minneapolis, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.