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Xylitol is a white crystalline substance that is commonly used as a sugar substitute in sugar free candies, chewing gum, and other products. Even a small amount of xylitol in a large dog can cause immediate and serious medical concerns.

How do I know if a food has xylitol in it?

Check the label on anything maked "sugar free". Often the label will have the word "xylitol" right in the list of ingredients.

What are the symptoms of xylitol poisoning?

Dogs will show symptoms anywhere from 45 minutes to 24 hours after ingestion of the substance. You may notice one or more of the following:

Diarrhea

Loss of appetite

Loss of muscle control, particularly in your dog's legs

Seizures

Weakness

 If you suspect that your dog has eaten xylitol, you need to seek medical attention immediately even if he or she is not displaying any symptoms.

What can be done for my pet if he or she has xylitol poisoning?

There is no antidote for xylitol toxicity. Generally if an animal is suspected to have been poisoned, a material called “activated charcoal” is used to induce vomiting and promote expulsion of the poison. Unfortunately, not even activated charcoal is effective against xylitol. Your veterinarian will provide supportive care with fluid therapy to maintain hydration and constant monitoring of their blood glucose, electrolyte status, and other compromised values. Sadly, even with quick and appropriate medical care, many animals still develop internal bleeding, liver failure and may even succumb to death. Fortunately, prevention of xylitol toxicity is very easy. Make sure to keep all foods containing that product out of your pet’s reach. Keep in mind that xylitol is not the only human food that is toxic to animals, and your pet should only be fed treats and food for pets.

 Please find a list of common foods poisonous to animals below. If you have a question about the safety of a specific food, please contact your local veterinarian.

The following foods may be dangerous to your pet:
Alcoholic beverages
Apple seeds
Apricot pits
Avocados—toxic to birds, mice, rabbits, horses, cattle, and dairy goats
Cherry pits
Candy (particularly chocolate, which is toxic to dogs, cats, and ferrets, and any candy containing the sweetener Xylitol)
Coffee (grounds, beans, chocolate covered espresso beans)
Grapes
Hops (used in home beer brewing)
Macadamia nuts
Moldy foods
Mushroom plants
Mustard seeds
Onions and onion powder
Peach pits
Potato leaves and stems (green parts)
Raisins
Rhubarb leaves
Salt
Tea (caffeine)
Tomato leaves and stems (green parts)
Walnuts
Yeast dough
 

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, The Toronto Humane Society, and St. John's Poison Resource Center

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