Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs
Background
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is found in everything from chewing gum to peanut butter to ice cream to toothpaste. It’s often listed under other names, including birch sugar, birch extract, or wood sugar. While considered safe for humans, xylitol is highly poisonous to dogs. If a dog consumes xylitol, blood sugar can drop dangerously low, resulting in seizures, liver failure, and even death.
Signs
Common signs of xylitol poisoning include:
- Vomiting
- Lack of coordination
- Weakness
- Collapse
- Seizures
Treatment
If you think your dog has ingested a product containing xylitol, take them to your veterinarian or an animal hospital immediately.
Prevention
The prevalence of xylitol and a lack of consistent labeling can make it difficult for pet owners to determine which products are safe. Be careful when purchasing products advertised as “sugar-free” or “low sugar,” and keep all questionable items out of your pet’s reach.
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Emergency & Critical Care
As New York City's only Level 1 Veterinary Trauma Center at a hospital accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), AMC is the premier veterinary emergency room in the tri-state area. Where you go first for emergency care matters, and there is no better place than the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center.
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