The best treatment is to avoid giving pets access to products containing xylitol
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute. The name derives from Ancient Greek: ξύλον, xyl[on], "wood" + suffix -itol, used to denote sugar alcohols. Xylitol is categorized as a polyalcohol or sugar alcohol. It has the formula CH₂OH(CHOH)₃CH₂OH. It is a colorless or white s…
What should I do if my dog ate gum?
If you suspect that your dog may have consumed sugar-free gum or any other product containing xylitol, immediately call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680). Do not induce vomiting or give anything orally to your dog unless specifically directed to do so by your veterinarian.
Can large dogs eat sugar-free gum?
Larger dogs have more body mass and have larger livers than smaller dogs do, which means that they are more likely to recover from eating a given quantity of sugar-free gum than a smaller dog will (this is also why a small amount of even dark chocolate likely won’t cause trouble for a large dog, although it can be deadly for a more petite pooch).
What can I give my Dog for a sweet tooth?
If you feel compelled to treat your dog’s sweet tooth, give her a carrot or a blueberry or two.
What happens if a dog eats bubble gum?
If an owner reports that their dog ate regular sugared bubble gum (not the sugarless type), then you most likely will not have to take them in. But, if your dog did eat a lot of gum, even the sugary kind, you can still expect some digestive upset to occur.
Can a dog survive eating sugar free gum?
Sugar free gum and candy contain a sugar substitute called xylitol which is extremely toxic to dogs. Each piece of sugar free gum contains enough xylitol to make a small dog deathly ill. The poison acts quickly and can cause seizures and complete liver failure in a matter of hours.
How do you treat xylitol poisoning in dogs at home?
There is no antidote for xylitol poisoning, although treatment with intravenous dextrose (glucose) supplementation and liver protective drugs are beneficial.
What do vets do with dogs that eat gum?
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Gum. If you know that your dog has ingested gum with xylitol in it, bring them to their vet or an emergency vet clinic immediately. The vet may run blood tests to determine if your dog has decreased blood glucose levels and/or elevated liver enzymes.
How long does it take for xylitol poisoning in dogs?
15 to 30 minutesSymptoms of Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs Symptoms of xylitol poisoning can be evident in as little as 30 minutes. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a very real danger with xylitol consumption. Symptoms of this effect can appear within 15 to 30 minutes but may be delayed up to 12 hours. Seizures and collapse are common.
Can a dog recover from xylitol poisoning?
Depending on the amount of xylitol ingested, they may recommend keeping your dog in the hospital to monitor their blood sugar and possibly starting medication to protect the liver. Most dogs do recover even with large xylitol ingestions, but veterinary intervention is often required.
How do I make my dog throw up after eating xylitol?
Treatment for Xylitol Poisoning Do not induce vomiting or give anything orally to your dog unless specifically directed to do so by your veterinarian. It is important to get treatment for your dog as quickly as possible. If a dog is already exhibiting signs of hypoglycemia, inducing vomiting could make them worse.
What are the symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs?
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs include vomiting, followed by symptoms associated with the sudden lowering of your dog's blood sugar, such as decreased activity, weakness, staggering, incoordination, collapse and seizures.
What happens if a dog eats gum without xylitol?
If the gum is sugary without xylitol, your dog may end up with digestive upset, especially if he ate a lot of it. You should keep a close eye on your dog because an intestinal blockage may occur. Symptoms of intestinal blockage in your dog include drooling, vomiting, lack of appetite and abdominal pain.
Does xylitol go away after chewing gum?
Approximately 99.4% of xylitol is removed from the gum within the first 15 min, and another 15 min of chewing time reduced the xylitol content below the method limits to detect.
How do you treat a dog that has been poisoned?
How to Treat a Poisoned Dog or CatNotify your veterinarian. ... Keep your pet calm.If the poison is on your pet's skin, bathe him or her. ... If the poison was ingested, get a sample of the poison's container so your veterinarian can determine the best treatment.More items...
What are signs of liver failure in dogs?
The signs of liver failure in dogs are jaundice, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, spontaneous bleeding, and dependent edeoma-swollen lower limbs. Treatment of liver failure is directed toward treating the liver disease that is causing it.
How much sugar free gum is toxic to dogs?
Even small doses of xylitol can cause a pooch to become gravely ill. Only 0.1 gram of xylitol per 2.2 pounds of body weight can cause hypoglycemia, while only . 5 grams can cause liver failure. Since a piece of sugarless gum can have between 0.3 and 1 gram of xylitol, it will only take a few pieces to poison a dog.
Can a dog survive xylitol?
Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure or even death in dogs.
How do you treat a dog that has been poisoned?
How to Treat a Poisoned Dog or CatNotify your veterinarian. ... Keep your pet calm.If the poison is on your pet's skin, bathe him or her. ... If the poison was ingested, get a sample of the poison's container so your veterinarian can determine the best treatment.More items...
What are signs of liver failure in dogs?
The signs of liver failure in dogs are jaundice, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, spontaneous bleeding, and dependent edeoma-swollen lower limbs. Treatment of liver failure is directed toward treating the liver disease that is causing it.
How do I know if my dog has xylitol poisoning?
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs include vomiting, followed by symptoms associated with the sudden lowering of your dog's blood sugar, such as decreased activity, weakness, staggering, incoordination, collapse and seizures.
HOW SUGAR-SUBSTITUTE XYLITOL CAN HURT PETS
Xylitol has long been known to cause hypoglycemia, or abnormally low blood glucose levels, in dogs. Within 30 minutes of ingestion, xylitol can cause the pancreas to secrete large amounts of insulin. This encourages the dog’s muscle and fat tissue to use too much blood glucose.
What to do if your dog eats xylitol
If you suspect your canine companion has ingested a product containing xylitol, it is important that a veterinarian intervenes as soon as possible. Xylitol can be digested and reach maximum levels in the body in as few as 30 minutes.
How to prevent your dog from eating gum?
The best way to treat xylitol poisoning is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
What Happens if a Dog Eats Gum?
Any time a dog eats an item that is not meant to be ingested, they can become sick. If a dog has eaten chewing gum, the following symptoms may arise:
How much gum kills a dog?
It is difficult to say how much gum will kill a dog, as it depends on the size and weight of the dog and the amount of gum consumed . But, any amount of gum can be harmful to your pup, so it is best to keep them away from it altogether.
Can a dog survive Xylitol?
Yes, a dog can survive Xylitol if it is treated right away by a veterinarian. The earlier the treatment, the better the prognosis for your pup. But, prevention is the best treatment.
Can Gum Kill Dogs?
Chewing gum, especially sugar-free chewing gum, can be dangerous for your dog. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener and sugar substitute that can be found in some gums and other foods. If your pet eats too much Xylitol, it could lead to fatal poisoning.
How to know if the gum contains Xylitol?
To know if the gum your dog has eaten contains Xylitol and how much it contains, you need to read the label on the package. Xylitol is usually listed as an ingredient , so check the ingredients list on your dog’s gum. If it contains Xylitol, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately .
How long does xylitol poisoning last in dogs?
The most severe cases of xylitol poisoning can be fatal, so it is important to treat your dog right away. If your pup receives treatment within 10 hours of the Xylitol ingestion. In that case, they have a great chance of recovering from their symptoms.
What Happens If My Dog Eats Xylitol?
Ingestion of xylitol causes your dog’s pancreas to release large amounts of insulin into their bloodstream which causes a sharp drop in their blood sugar levels. If these sugar levels become too low, they suffer from hypoglycemia, a condition that can cause harmful side effects. Irreversible liver failure can also be seen in some cases and is potentially fatal. The following symptoms may be seen in a dog suffering from xylitol poisoning:
How Can I Tell If Chewing Gum Contains Xylitol?
Xylitol is found in variable quantities in many sugar-free or low sugar type products so check the packet ingredients to see if it is listed. If you aren’t sure or can’t find the packaging it is still safest to call your veterinarian in an emergency.
Is Chewed Gum Dangerous to My Dog?
A dog that has only eaten a small piece of already chewed gum will be at lower risk (as much of the xylitol will be gone), than a dog that consumed a whole new gum pack. However, we are unable to measure the exact amount that was left in the chewed gum so it is still best to call your veterinarian for advice.
Are There Any Other Poisonous Ingredients in Gum?
Xylitol is what we are most concerned about for our pets – most of the other ingredients are not harmful though they may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.
What to do if your dog eats xylitol?
If you think your dog may have eaten a product containing xylitol, call your vet, emergency clinic, or animal poison control center right away.
Why is Xylitol Dangerous to Dogs, but Not People?
In people, xylitol does not stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas. However, it’s different in canines: When dogs eat something containing xylitol, the xylitol is more quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, and may result in a potent release of insulin from the pancreas.
How long does it take for xylitol to lower blood sugar?
This rapid release of insulin may result in a rapid and profound decrease in the level of blood sugar (hypoglycemia), an effect that can occur within 10 to 60 minutes of eating the xylitol. Untreated, this hypoglycemia can quickly be life-threatening, Hartogensis says.
What does the FDA want to know about pet products?
The FDA wants to know if your pet encounters safety issues with a product, and/or unanticipated harmful effects that you believe are related to a product. “Timely reporting of problems enables FDA to take prompt action,” Hartogensis says.
Can you buy xylitol gum for dogs?
People can buy xylitol in bulk to bake sweet treats at home. In-store bakeries also are selling baked goods containing the sweetener. Some pediatric dentists also recommend xylitol-containing chewing gum for children, and these products could end up in a dog’s mouth by accident.
Can a six month old dog eat chocolate?
Your six-month-old puppy, Hoover, will eat anything that isn’t tied down. Like many dog owners, you know chocolate can be dangerous to your pooch. But you may not know that if Hoover sticks his nose in your handbag and eats a pack of sugarless chewing gum, the consequences could be deadly. Sugarless gum may contain xylitol, a class ...
Can xylitol poisoning cause seizures in dogs?
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs include vomiting, followed by symptoms associated with the sudden lowering of your dog’s blood sugar, such as decreased activity, weakness, staggering, incoordination, collapse and seizures.
What to do if my dog eats gum?
Key Takeaways: My Dog Ate Gum! What Do I Do? 1 While no gum is “good” for dogs, some are much more dangerous than others. The primary concern is that some gums (mostly sugar-free varieties) contain xylitol, which is very dangerous to dogs. 2 You’ll want to solicit immediate veterinary care if your dog has consumed gum containing xylitol. It’s also wise to contact your vet if your dog is exhibiting signs suggestive of xylitol ingestion, such as lethargy, tremors, or a rapid heart rate, among others. 3 A variety of other products contain xylitol; gum isn’t the only potential danger in your home. In addition to a variety of sugar-free sweets, things like supplements, medications, and breath sprays may also contain the dangerous sugar substitute.
What to give a dog with a sweet tooth?
If you feel compelled to treat your dog’s sweet tooth, give her a carrot or a blueberry or two . These types of foods are already crazy sweet – they just don’t taste that way to us because most people eat a ton of sugar, so our taste buds are a bit desensitized to it (try going without sugar for a few weeks — your taste buds will reset and you’ll realize just how sweet most fruits are).
How to dispose of chewing gum?
Use care when discarding chewing gum. Don’t just throw your chewed gum on the top of the trash. Wrap it up well and bury it down deep, so your pup doesn’t pluck it off the top. You may also want to purchase a pet-proof trash can for additional safety.
How long does it take for a dog to get Xylitol poisoning?
Symptoms of Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs. Xylitol poisoning symptoms often appear quite quickly, within just 30 – 60 minutes of consumption. Occasionally symptoms can manifest 12 hours or so after ingestion, so don’t let your guard down after just a few hours. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
Why is chocolate bad for dogs?
Larger dogs have more body mass and have larger livers than smaller dogs do , which means that they are more likely to recover from eating a given quantity of sugar-free gum than a smaller dog will (this is also why a small amount of even dark chocolate likely won’t cause trouble for a large dog, although it can be deadly for a more petite pooch).
What to do if your dog is poisoned?
Call your vet or the Pet Poison Hotline immediately.
Is gum bad for dogs?
While no gum is “good” for dogs , some are much more dangerous than others. The primary concern is that some gums (mostly sugar-free varieties) contain xylitol, which is very dangerous to dogs.
What should I do if my dog eats something containing xylitol?
If you suspect that your dog has eaten a xylitol-containing product, please contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control center, at 1-800-213-6680 immediately.
How many pieces of gum are toxic?
With other common brands of gum which contain 1 g/piece of gum, only 2 pieces would result in severe hypoglycemia, while 10 pieces can result in liver failure. As there is a large range of xylitol in each different brand and flavor of gum, it is important to identify whether a toxic amount has been ingested.
Why is xylitol toxic to dogs?
In both humans and dogs, the level of blood sugar is controlled by the release of insulin from the pancreas. Xylitol does not stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas in humans. However, when dogs eat xylitol, the xylitol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, resulting in a potent release of insulin from the pancreas. This rapid release of insulin causes a profound drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), an effect that can occur as quickly as 10-60 minutes after ingestion. If untreated, hypoglycemia can be life-threatening. The process by which xylitol can cause liver failure in dogs is poorly understood.
How much xylitol is poisonous to a dog?
Xylitol amounts in gum vary by brand and can even vary within the same brand based on type of gum and flavor. Some brands of gum contain low amounts of xylitol, while other brands contain larger amounts. Because there is a large range of xylitol in different brands and flavors of gum, it is important to identify whether a toxic amount has been ingested. The most common source of xylitol poisoning that Pet Poison Helpline* gets calls about comes from sugar-free gum, although cases of xylitol poisoning from other sources such as supplements and baked goods are on the rise. In 2020, Pet Poison Helpline had 5,846 calls involving dogs ingesting xylitol!
How long does it take for xylitol to lower blood sugar?
This rapid release of insulin causes a rapid and profound decrease in the level of blood sugar (hypoglycemia), an effect that occurs within 10-60 minutes of eating the xylitol. Untreated, this hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.
Is xylitol good for diabetics?
Being lower on the glycemic index makes xylitol useful for diabetics or people on low carbohydrate diets. With respect to oral health, research has shown that xylitol helps reduce the formation of plaque, inhibits dental cavities, and stimulates the production of saliva.
Is there an antidote for xylitol poisoning?
No. There is no antidote for xylitol poisoning, although treatment with intravenous dextrose (glucose) supplementation and liver protective drugs are beneficial.
How to treat a dog with diabetes?
Evaluate Your Dog and Get Them the Help They Need — Fast! 1 Corn syrup or maple syrup: If you have one of these types of syrup handy and you can do so without getting bit or without overly delaying Step 2 below, rub some onto your dog’s gums. This is a TEMPORARY fix to try and raise their blood sugar and counteract the insulin released as a result of the xylitol. DO NOT pour the syrup into your dog's mouth — you could make matters significantly worse by doing so! 2 Get to the vet: Even if her concerning signs improve after you’ve rubbed syrup onto her gums, get her immediately to the vet. Again, the syrup is a temporary fix and her blood sugar is likely to plummet again. Go immediately to your vet, or to your nearest open Animal ER if your vet isn’t open or can’t get you in. Ideally call them while you’re on your way to let them know that you’re coming in and what’s wrong with your dog, that way they can be ready to initiate immediate treatment and evaluation upon your arrival.
What to bring to poison control for dog?
It's important for the team that's giving you advice and treating your dog to know what's listed on the ingredient label. Sometimes the concentration of xylitol in each serving is disclosed, which is important in evaluating the severity of the poisoning (how much xylitol versus the weight of your dog), although often the concentration of xylitol is not listed; that's why we're asking everybody to sign our petitions to manufacturers and the FDA to improve xylitol labeling standards.
How many xylitol calls did the ASPCA receive in 2015?
ASPCA-Animal Poison Control received 3,727 xylitol calls in 2014 (2015 numbers not yet reported) and Pet Poison Helpline received 2,900 xylitol calls in 2015 — and these are just the cases that get reported to the animal poison control hotlines! There are many more that never get reported, either because the attending veterinary team gets it well under control without the input from the specialists at poison control, or because the dog never even makes it to the veterinary hospital.
How long does it take for xylitol to cause low blood sugar?
Call for advice: Time is always of the essence when it comes to animal poisonings, and that’s even more so the case when xylitol is involved! Dangerously low blood sugar can develop in as little as 30 minutes! Call your veterinarian or one of the dedicated animal-specific poison control hotlines immediately for advice on what to do and what to watch for.
Is xylitol a sugar substitute for dogs?
Read more here. As xylitol is being used in an increasingly wide range and number of products, more and more dogs are getting sick from eating this “all natural” sugar substitute.
Can you put corn syrup on dogs gums?
Corn syrup or maple syrup: If you have one of these types of syrup handy and you can do so without getting bit or without overly delaying Step 2 below, rub some onto your dog’s gums. This is a TEMPORARY fix to try and raise their blood sugar and counteract the insulin released as a result of the xylitol. DO NOT pour the syrup into your dog's mouth — you could make matters significantly worse by doing so!
Can you put syrup in dogs mouth?
DO NOT pour the syrup into your dog's mouth — you could make matters significantly worse by doing so! Get to the vet: Even if her concerning signs improve after you’ve rubbed syrup onto her gums, get her immediately to the vet. Again, the syrup is a temporary fix and her blood sugar is likely to plummet again.