Xylitol: Danger for dogs. Xylitol can result in serious health issues for dogs.

Xylitol poses significant danger for dogs. It does not take a lot of it to make your dog sick. When it is consumed, it does not take long before symptoms occur. Because it is found in many everyday products you may not even be aware that your dog has ingested it.

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I did some research to learn more about what Xylitol is, where it comes from, how it is used in our foods and other household products and how it will affect our pups should they swallow any.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol and is used as a sugar substitute in many foods. It looks like regular sugar but has significantly fewer calories. It is derived from various fruits and vegetables and is also found in certain types of wood.

There are several natural sources of Xylitol including:

Strawberries

Raspberries

Cauliflower

Mushrooms

Oats

Corn on the cob

Birchwood

Because Xylitol has a lower caloric content than sugar it is used in the production of many calorie reduced foods. It is a source of sweetener for a diabetic diet or a calorie reduced weight loss plan. It can also be found in medications and oral care products. Xylitol has even been identified as an effective agent against oral bacteria. This results in reduced cavities and is thought to lower the incidents of tooth decay.

Xylitol can be found in the following common household items:

Chewing Gum

Mints

Sugar Free or Calorie Reduced Candies

Peanut Butter

Jams

Honey

Syrup

Fruit Drinks

Sugar Free Gelatine

Sugar Free Pudding

Toothpaste

Oral Care Rinses

Nasal Spray

Cough Syrup

Cough Drops

Vitamins

Prescription Medications

Formulas Used in Feeding Tubes

I am neither a veterinarian nor a medical professional. The information in this article has been researched and sourced at the end of the post. All medical issues or questions regarding your pet’s health or symptoms should always be brought to the attention of your veterinarian for clarification, assessment, advice and treatment.

All these potential sources are found in the average household’s pantries and cabinets. Because of this it is important to be sure you are keeping them all away from your dog. A dog consuming just a little can be extremely harmful. If you suspect that your dog has come into contact with something containing Xylitol get him to the vet immediately.

When you are out for a walk, it’s important to remember that people toss chewing gum on the ground. It is not uncommon to spill mints or candies when sharing them among friends. Garbage cans get blown around and the contents are scattered over parks, trails, sidewalks and lawns. I see this daily when dog walking, in all neighborhoods. Dogs are quick to pick things up. You may not even see it happen. It can take less than an hour and up to half a day to begin seeing the effects of Xylitol poisoning.

If you see any of the following symptoms contact your veterinarian immediately. Your dog may have ingested something you are unaware of.

Symptoms of Xylitol poisoning in Dogs:

Foods and gum containing Xylitol can be found on the ground during walks. Be sure to watch what your dog is sniffing.

Lethargic

Lack of Coordination

Vomiting

Weakness

Tremors

Seizures

Hypoglycemia

Liver Failure

Coma

Is there a Cure?

If you can reach your veterinarian quickly, they may be able to offer an IV drip that will help to restore your dog’s glucose levels. Extensive liver damage may result in death.

Because of the severity and the rapid deterioration that occurs with Xylitol poisoning, the best method of protecting your dog is prevention. Here are some things to consider:

Keep all foods and oral products in cabinets above the dog’s reach.

Do not give your dog table scraps or leftovers. Xylitol is an ingredient in many foods.

Provide only treats that are prepared specially for dogs. Many human foods can be dangerous for dogs.

Do not let children eat unsupervised around your dog. Food that is dropped may go unnoticed. Children may just want to give their furry friend a treat.

Keep backpacks, purses, jackets, suitcases or bags containing gum, mints, candies, drinks etc. zipped up and out of reach.

Keep a close eye on what your dog is sniffing when on a walk. Even though it is important to let your dog sniff, it is equally important to keep their noses where you can see them.