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Xylitol in dogs: even a small amount can be life-threatening

Written by Mara |

Many people have heard that chocolate is dangerous for dogs. What is less well known is that xylitol can be even more dangerous for dogs. Even a small amount can cause serious health problems. Xylitol is increasingly being used as a sugar substitute in products for people. As a result, dogs are also coming into contact with it accidentally more often. A piece of chewing gum, a sugar-free sweet or a leftover piece of cake can sometimes be enough to cause an emergency.

Dog lying on sofa

What is xylitol?

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that belongs to the group of sugar alcohols. It is used as a substitute for ordinary sugar and has roughly the same sweetness, but contains fewer calories.

Xylitol is safe for people. For dogs, it is different. Their body reacts very differently to this substance, which means even small amounts can have serious consequences.

Where is xylitol found?

Xylitol is used in all kinds of products that we use every day. Many dog owners do not realise that these products can be dangerous.

Xylitol can be found in, among other things:

  • sugar-free chewing gum
  • sugar-free sweets
  • mints
  • toothpaste
  • mouthwash
  • cough syrup
  • vitamin supplements
  • protein bars
  • diet products
  • peanut butter (some brands)
  • cakes and baking products without sugar (also watch out for ‘light’ ontbijtkoek!)

Therefore, always check the ingredients list if a product is described as “sugar-free”.

Relevant products

Why is xylitol so dangerous for dogs?

When a dog eats xylitol, the body reacts as if a large amount of sugar has entered the body. This causes a lot of insulin to be released in a short time. The sharp rise in insulin can cause the blood sugar level to become dangerously low. This is called hypoglycaemia. In addition, xylitol can cause serious liver damage at higher doses.

How much xylitol is toxic to a dog?

The amount that causes problems depends on:

  • the weight of the dog
  • the amount of xylitol
  • the concentration of xylitol in the product

Signs of low blood sugar can occur from around 0.05 grams of xylitol per kilogram of body weight. Higher doses increase the risk of serious liver damage.

Because the amount of xylitol varies greatly from one product to another, it is wise to take every ingestion seriously.

How quickly does xylitol affect dogs?

Xylitol poisoning can develop very quickly. In many dogs, the first symptoms appear within 30 minutes to a few hours after ingestion. In some cases, symptoms may become visible within fifteen minutes. Liver problems usually develop later and may only appear after several hours to days. Precisely because symptoms can appear quickly, acting fast is very important.

Symptoms of xylitol poisoning

The first symptoms are usually caused by a low blood sugar level.

Common signs include:

  • lethargy
  • weakness
  • walking unsteadily
  • trembling
  • restlessness
  • vomiting
  • disorientation
  • difficulty getting up

In severe poisonings, the following may also occur:

  • seizures
  • loss of consciousness
  • coma

When liver damage occurs, the following symptoms may also be seen:

  • reduced appetite
  • jaundice
  • bleeding problems
  • severe lethargy

What should you do if your dog has eaten xylitol?

Has your dog possibly eaten xylitol? Contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. With xylitol poisoning, every minute can count.

If possible, try to provide the following information:

  • what the dog has eaten
  • how much was eaten
  • when this happened
  • the weight of the dog

Preferably take the product packaging with you to the veterinarian.

Do not give food, sugar or other remedies on your own initiative without consulting a veterinarian. The right treatment depends on the situation and the amount of xylitol that has been ingested.

Can a dog die from xylitol?

Unfortunately, yes. Without rapid treatment, severe xylitol poisoning can be fatal. Severe hypoglycaemia and liver failure in particular can be life-threatening. Fortunately, many dogs recover fully when they receive medical help quickly.

That is why it is important to treat any possible ingestion of xylitol as an emergency.

Can you prevent xylitol poisoning?

Prevention is the best protection. Always store products containing xylitol out of reach of pets, in closed cupboards. Not in handbags left on the floor and not loose on tables or bedside tables.

Also ask family members and visitors to be careful with chewing gum, sweets and other products that may contain xylitol.

Frequently asked questions about xylitol in dogs

What are the symptoms of xylitol in dogs?

The first symptoms are often lethargy, trembling, weakness, vomiting and walking unsteadily. In severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness may occur.

How quickly does xylitol affect dogs?

Symptoms can occur within 15 to 30 minutes, but sometimes it takes several hours before signs become visible.

When do symptoms of xylitol poisoning occur?

Usually within a few hours after ingestion. Liver problems may develop later.

What should I do if my dog has eaten xylitol?

Contact a veterinarian immediately, even if your dog is not yet showing any symptoms.

How much xylitol is dangerous for dogs?

That depends on the weight of the dog and the amount of xylitol in the product. Because even small amounts can cause problems, every ingestion must be taken seriously.

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About the author

Mara van Brussel-Broere, Veterinarian at Vetsend

Graduated as a companion animal veterinarian from Utrecht University, she uses her practical experience to advise customers and share knowledge at Vetsend. She finds it important to provide pet owners with clear information about health and wellbeing.

Read more about Mara