Due to the rapid absorption of xylitol, common poisoning treatments are not effective. Because of the potential for rapid onset of clinical signs of hypoglycemia, emesis should ideally be attempted only under veterinary supervision and in asymptomatic animals. As some dogs may already be hypoglycemic, inducing vomiting can make them worse! *Pet Poison Helpline, is an animal poison control service available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Activated charcoal does not appreciably bind xylitol and is not recommended. The form of xylitol used in a product affects its toxicity, as well. J Vet Pharmacol Therap 32 (5), 465-469 PubMed. If you are a dog, xylitol is potentially lethal. This sometimes fatal toxicosis has unfortunately become all too common with the advent of trendy gums, such as Ice Cubes, Orbit and some Trident products, which contain large amounts of the toxic sweetener. Signs of liver injury may not occur until ≥24-48 hr after ingestion of xylitol, although increases in liver enzymes are often detectable within 8–12 hr of ingestion. Signs of hypoglycemia can develop within 30 min of ingestion or may be delayed up to 12–18 hr if the xylitol is in a substrate that slows its absorption (eg, some gum products). Toxicity Calculator (calculator can take a few seconds to load) Individual Sensitivity. Read our article to find out about the common causes and symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs and what to do if your dog is poisoned by xylitol. Dosages of xylitol over ~75–100 mg/kg (34–45 mg/lb) have been associated with hypoglycemia in dogs. Xylitol is a carbohydrate found in the birch tree and several kinds of fruit. Matthew S. Mellema DVM, PhD, DACVECC, in Small Animal Toxicology (Third Edition), 2013 Toxicokinetics. Xylitol is very toxic. Blood glucose should be monitored every 1–2 hr for at least 12 hr, while liver values should be evaluated every 24 hr for at least 72 hr. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs, leading to hypoglycemia and liver failure. Xylitol does not stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas in humans. However, when non-primate species like dogs eat something containing xylitol, the xylitol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, resulting in a potent release of insulin from the pancreas. Hyperphosphatemia is considered a poor prognostic indicator, because it was present in 4 of 5 dogs that died of liver failure after xylitol ingestion (phosphorus was not measured in the fifth dog). Signs of xylitol toxicity Common signs of hypoglycemia, which may develop in as few as 15 minutes, include vomiting, walking as if drunk/weakness, depression, tremors/seizures, and coma. The prognosis is good for dogs that are treated before clinical signs develop, or for dogs that develop uncomplicated hypoglycemia that is quickly reversed. xylitol toxicity calculator Hyperphosphatemia is considered a poor prognostic indicator, because it was present in 4 of 5 dogs that died of liver failure after xylitol ingestion (phosphorus was not measured in the fifth dog). Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. However, some dogs may not show symptoms for up to 48 hours after ingestion. Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs. Higher doses (> 0.5 g/kg) of xylitol have been associated with acute hepatic necrosis. Dogs are the only species in which xylitol … Do not induce vomiting or give anything orally to your dog unless specifically directed to do so by your veterinarian. Xylitol Toxicosis in dogs (cats appear to be unaffected) occurs mainly by ingestion of sugar-free gums and candies, but other exposures have occured. Blood work should be monitored frequently to make sure that blood sugar and liver function remain normal. The use of xylitol has some health benefits and is still better than some other sugar substitutes such as coconut sugar, agave, sucralose, or saccharin. In the past 5 years, Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control based out of Minneapolis, MN, has had over 1500 calls for xylitol poisoning, due to the growing awareness of this common kitchen toxin. Fast and aggressive treatment by your veterinarian is essential to effectively reverse any toxic effects and prevent the development of severe problems. The toxicity of xylitol for cats and other species is not documented at this time, although there has been some concern that other non-primate species (e.g., cats, ferrets, etc.) If your dog has just eaten xylitol but has not yet developed any clinical signs, your veterinarian may induce vomiting to prevent further absorption, depending on what your dog's blood glucose level is. The compound doesnt affect glucose levels in people, but when ingested by dogs it can cause a dangerous surge of insulin. It is highly toxic to dogs. The dog has not yet shown any signs or symptoms of xylitol consumption as yet, hence the absorption of xylitol in dog has not yet happened or is currently happening. No. *Pet Poison Helpline, is an animal poison control service available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. It’s regularly found in sugar-free chewing gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, vitamin supplements, a small handful of peanut butter brands, and other 'low sugar' or sugar-free products. Xylitol Toxicity is becoming more and more of a concern for our companion pets. Xylitol is a common sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs in even small amounts and it can be fatal. NUTRIENT BALANCE INDICATOR™ This symbol offers a visual representation of a food's nutritional strengths and weaknesses, with each spoke representing a different nutrient. If the dog lapses into a coma, the prognosis is very poor. Why Is Xylitol Dangerous To Dogs, But Not People? Insecticides, ... Chocolate Toxicity Calculator Chocolate toxicosis may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and CNS dysfunction. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. Rapid diagnosis and treatment is imperative! If enough xylitol is ingested it can cause life-threatening low blood sugar (even within 10-15 minutes of ingestion) and acute liver failure. In most mammals, xylitol has no significant effect on insulin levels, but in dogs, xylitol stimulates a rapid, dose-dependent insulin release that can result in profound hypoglycemia. When brushing your pets’ teeth, only use toothpaste intended for pets, never one made for human use. Learn more about Xylitol uses, effectiveness, possible side effects, interactions, dosage, user ratings and products that contain Xylitol Winter Holiday Hazards for Pets. This is enough time for symptoms of poisoning to show, including vomiting and hypoglycemia. Xylitol comes in the form of a finely granulated powder that can be used 1:1 with sugar, meaning you’ll measure it the same as natural sugar in recipes. ADDITIONAL CONTENT Test your knowledge. At prescribed doses, these should not result in xylitol poisoning; however, if ingested in large amounts, can potentially result in poisoning. Emergency Situations, Medical Conditions, Others, Pet Services. Since xylitol toxicity can cause both low blood glucose and low potassium levels, your veterinarian will perform blood work to determine whether these problems need to be treated. 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. Xylitol is a natural, sugar-free sweetener commonly found in chewing gums, mints, foods (e.g., pudding, gelatin snacks, sauces, syrups, jams, etc. Mechanism of Toxicity. Typically, patients should be monitored for 12 hours and if, hypoglycemia occurs, 24-48 hours of therapy may be needed. The trusted provider of veterinary information since 1955, Insecticides, Acaricides, and Molluscicides. Behavior. Dogs are the only species in which xylitol toxicosis has been reported. Effective treatment for xylitol toxicity that is <0.5g/kg includes emesis, blood glucose monitoring, IV fluids and dextrose supplementation if hypoglycemia develops. Some dogs ingesting xylitol at dosages >500 mg/kg (227 mg/lb) may develop severe hepatic insufficiency or failure, the mechanism of which is unknown. Beyond this, a sugar IV drip is prudent for a good 24 hours.So far National Animal Poison Control has no reports of xylitol toxicity in the cat. Higher doses (> 0.5 g/kg) of xylitol have been associated with acute hepatic necrosis. Severe increases in liver enzymes and/or signs of liver insufficiency indicate a more guarded prognosis; in one study, 62.5% of dogs with signs of liver injury died or were euthanized despite aggressive veterinary intervention. Xylitol toxicity can occur after just 30 minutes. Since xylitol toxicity can cause both low blood glucose and low potassium levels, your veterinarian will perform blood work to determine whether these problems need to be treated. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and history of exposure. Hypoglycemia may persist as long as 24 hr or more, so treatment should be continued until the dog can maintain a normal blood glucose level without supplemental dextrose. Clinical signs of liver injury include depression, vomiting, icterus, and coagulopathy; other findings include hyperbilirubinemia, thrombocytopenia, and hyperphosphatemia. Why is xylitol toxic to dogs? Xylitol Toxicity Treatment The most common treatment for poisoning such as this is inducing vomiting. Xylitol is classified as a five-carbon sugar alcohol which has many uses. This causes the body to rid itself of any more poisonous substance that hasn’t yet been absorbed. It is important to get treatment for your dog as quickly as possible. Xylitol is about as sweet as sucrose, but contains only about two-thirds of the calories. Xylitol can also cause liver damage in dogs. or liquids. The acronym SLUD stands for salivation, lacrimation, urination, and defecation, which are the clinical signs associated with muscarinic cholinergic overstimulation caused by certain toxins. Clinical signs of hypoglycemia include vomiting, weakness, ataxia, depression, hypokalemia, seizures, and coma. Sourcing xylitol from corn cobs is cheaper and less damaging to the environment.In 2011, EFSA approved a marketing claim that foods or beverages containing xylitol or similar sugar replacers cause lower blood glucose and lower insulin responses compared to sugar-containing foods or drinks. With xylitol poisoning, it is imperative to calculate whether a toxic dose has been ingested. Xylitol toxicity can occur between a few minutes to an hour after ingestion and dogs can crash quickly. In severe cases, liver cells ca… Xylitol is derived from either birch trees or corn cobs. Xylitol is safe for use in people, although like most sugar alcohols, it may have a mild laxative effect when eaten in large amounts or when first introduced to a diet. Ingested xylitol is absorbed readily, if incompletely, from the gastrointestinal tract in most species. Hypoglycaemia. Differential diagnoses for liver insufficiency include infectious (eg, leptospirosis, viral hepatitis), environmental (eg, heat stroke, trauma), and toxic (eg, iron, acetaminophen, mushroom, blue-green algae, cycad palms) causes. Other artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, are not known to be toxic in pets. Ingestion of xylitol or xylitol-containing products by dogs has resulted in development of hypoglycemia and, less commonly, hepatic injury and/or failure. Gum is different. Last full review/revision May 2013 | Content last modified May 2013, © 2020 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA), © 2021 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA, Overview of Health-Management Interaction: Small Animals. Xylitol is generally well tolerated, but … In dogs, doses > 0.1 g/kg are considered toxic and result in profound, sudden problems. If you personally use products containing xylitol, make sure they are stored safely out of reach of your pets. This is why… If you think that your dog has ingested xylitol you can call the pet poison helpline (1-800-213-6680), the animal control center or rush to … While Xylitol is safe for humans, it can be harmful to dogs. If clinical signs have developed, treatment will be based on the symptoms that are being shown. Unabsorbed sorbitol retains water in the large intestine through osmotic pressure thereby stimulating peristalsis of the intestine and exerting its diuretic, laxative and cathartic effect. Correcting low blood glucose levels and administering fluids is the mainstay of treatment early on. Read our article to find out about the common causes and symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs and what to do if your dog is poisoned by xylitol. ... Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs and Cats. , DVM, PhD, DABVT, DABT, University of Illinois. Aggression Between Familiar Dogs. Vet Rec 167 (3), 108 PubMed. We were able to calculate that Billy had ingested about 150mg/kg, which is consistent with his presentation and progression. Signs of hypoglycemia may include any or all of the following: In severe cases, the dog may develop seizures or liver failure. Although it has been used as a sugar substitute for decades, its popularity has increased dramatically in the last few years due to its low glycemic index and dental plaque fighting properties. With any poisoning, prompt decontamination and treatment is always warranted, as it's less dangerous to your pet, and less expensive for you to treat early! Particularly when we know that xylitol toxicity does have the potential to be toxic in dogs? Why is Xylitol Toxic to Dogs. Symptoms of xylitol toxicity can occur quickly, and can lead to concerning symptoms in our canine friends. Wismer said some xylitol used in candies and mints is in a powder that is absorbed quickly in the system, causing signs of illness in 30 minutes. Xylitol is safe for people, but because people have different metabolisms then animals, xylitol can be fatal for cats and dogs. Peak plasma levels occur approximately 30 minutes after ingestion. Signs of toxicity may start to appear within 10-15 minutes after ingestion, with vomiting usually being the first sign. 32, issue 5, Oct. 2009. Learn what to do if your dog gets xylitol in its system. The most common source of xylitol poisoning that Pet Poison Helpline* gets calls about comes from sugar-free gum. In dogs, xylitol stimulates the pancreas to release insulin. Pet Poison Helpline is not directly affiliated with LifeLearn. In both humans and dogs, the level of blood sugar is controlled by the release of insulin from the pancreas. The Merck Veterinary Manual was first published in 1955 as a service to the community. As we humans try and trick ourselves that we are eating healthy by avoiding products that contain sugar and sourcing those that contain the sweetener called Xylitol. Treatment of xylitol toxicity is generally considered supportive. What Is Xylitol Toxicity? Example products include sugar-free gum, candies, breath mints, baked goods, pudding snacks, cough syrup, children's chewable or gummy vitamins and supplements, mouthwash, and toothpaste. However, when your dog consumes it, it has detrimental results. Ideally, the patient can be seen quickly and can be made to vomit the gum or candy. There have been reports of some dogs eating only a small handful of grapes before then showing signs of poisoning. In many countries it has been approved for use in oral care products, pharmaceuticals and as a food additive. Symptoms Of Xylitol Toxicity In Dogs. We can be certain that some individuals are incredibly sensitive … We're here for you and your pet in 43 states. Treatment for Xylitol Toxicity. A champion among sugar alcohol sweeteners, xylitol is a veritable powerhouse of unparalleled health benefits. Xylitol is a pentitol (five-carbon sugar alcohol) having meso-configuration, being derived from xylose by reduction of the carbonyl group. Untreated, this hypoglycemia can be life-threatening. Diagnosing Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs Your dog will undergo a complete blood profile, including a chemical blood profile, a complete blood count, and a urinalysis. Xylitol is a sugarless sweetener that’s gaining popularity as an ingredient in candy, chewing gum and toothpaste. We were able to calculate that Billy had ingested about 150mg/kg, which is consistent with his presentation and progression. In all cases, your dog will require hospitalization for blood sugar monitoring, dextrose administration, intravenous fluids, liver protectants, and any other supportive care that may be needed. Clinical signs of liver injury include depression, vomiting, icterus, and coagulopathy; other findings include hyperbilirubinemia, thrombocytopenia, and hyperphosphatemia. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used to sweeten sugar-free products such as gums, candies, and baked goods. Here is the calculation we used: Amount of Xylitol per stick of Trident Original gum: 0.17g (170 mg) Number of sticks per pack: 18 (yes, it was unopened and he likely ate the whole thing) Billy’s weight: 20 kg (44 lbs) Lesions of dogs succumbing to liver injury have included hepatic necrosis with loss of normal hepatic architecture. Experimental acute toxicity of xylitol in dogs. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is found in many sugar-free products such as chewing gum. Some brands of gum contain fairly small amounts of xylitol, and it would take up to 9 pieces of gum to result in severe hypoglycemia in a 45 pound (20 kg) dog, while 45 pieces would need to be ingested to result in liver failure. An additive in dental care products, baked goods, nicotine gum, vitamins and more, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs with symptoms ranging from lethargy to hypoglycemia. Twp deadly effects of xylitol are hypoglycemia and hepatic necrosis. Adopting a Shelter Dog. Lead Poisoning in Dogs and Cats. And as the use of xylitol in foods becomes more common, xylitol poisoning in dogs is becoming more common. ), candies (chocolate and non-chocolate), oral rinses, toothpastes, OTC supplements (e.g., sugar-free chewable multivitamins, fish oils, etc. Mild increases in liver enzyme usually resolve within a few days. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, vol. Xylitol. Xylitol is also showing up in over-the-counter nasal sprays, laxatives, digestive aids, allergy medicines, and prescription human medications, especially those formulated as disintegrating drug tablets (sleep aids, pain relievers, antipsychotics, etc.) Although xylitol has many potential health benefits, particularly for preventing dental cavities, ingesting large amounts of the sweetener could pose some health risks for children. 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. If you suspect that your pet has eaten a xylitol-containing product, please contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680) immediately. Your veterinarian will also ask you various questions to ascertain the underlying cause for your pet's condition. This occurs because xylitol may not be completely digested in the intestines until the digestive system adapts. In most mammals, xylitol has no significant effect on insulin levels, but in dogs, xylitol stimulates a rapid, dose-dependent insulin release that can result in profound hypoglycemia. The higher the dose ingested, the more the risk of liver failure. Chocolate (especially dark chocolate) may be beneficial to our health, but it is poisonous to our dogs. Behavior. In both humans and dogs, the level of blood sugar is controlled by the release of insulin from the pancreas. There is no antidote for xylitol toxicity, although treatment with sugar supplementation, IV fluids, and liver protective drugs are beneficial. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol found in fruits and plants with diuretic, laxative and cathartic property. Use our chocolate toxicity calculator for dogs to work out whether your dog has eaten a potentially toxic amount. Xylitol is a common sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs in even small amounts and it can be fatal. ©Copyright VCA Hospitals all rights reserved. The spoke for dietary fiber is colored green, protein is blue, vitamins are purple, minerals are white, and yellow represents a group of commonly … This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: Here is the calculation we used: Amount of Xylitol per stick of Trident Original gum: 0.17g (170 mg) Number of sticks per pack: 18 (yes, it was unopened and he likely ate the whole thing) Billy’s weight: 20 kg (44 lbs) If liver failure or a bleeding disorder develops, the prognosis is generally poor. Since xylitol toxicity can cause both low blood glucose and low potassium levels, your veterinarian will perform blood work to determine whether these problems need to be treated. 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. Chocolate poisoning occurs most commonly in dogs, although many species are susceptible. Xylitol toxicity was evaluated by intravenous infusion of varying doses of xylitol at different concentrations into rabbits. This automatic xylitol (naturally sugar free alternative extract from birch trees) weight versus volume units conversion calculator lets you instantly convert measurements of birch xylitol amounts from cups (US and Metric), serving, portion of birch xylitol, grams g, ounces oz, pounds lb, tablespoons tbsp, teaspoons tsp and from/to dekagrams dkg or dag amounts into scale … In dogs, xylitol stimulates the pancreas to release insulin. Signs of SLUD are most consistent with exposure to which of the following classes of chemicals? We do not control or have responsibility for the content of any third-party site. “You have to chew to release xylitol,” Wismer said, noting that dogs tend to swallow gum whole without chewing. Dosages of xylitol over ~75100 mg/kg (3445 mg/lb) have been associated with hypoglycemia in dogs. Since toxicity develops rapidly, your veterinarian will not wait for a confirmed diagnosis before beginning treatment. Dogs rapidly absorb xylitol after they consume a product containing it. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas to control blood sugar. Thomas H & Boag A (2008) What is your diagnosis? Some dogs ingesting xylitol at dosages >500 mg/kg (227 mg/lb) may develop severe hepatic insufficiency or failure, the mechanism of which is unknown. With xylitol poisoning, it is imperative to calculate whether a toxic dose has been ingested. If >75–100 mg/kg (227 mg/lb) of xylitol has been ingested, animals should be hospitalized and baseline blood glucose values measured; dogs ingesting >500 mg/kg (227 mg/lb) of xylitol should have baseline liver values measured. The link you have selected will take you to a third-party website. Do not share any food that may contain xylitol with your pets. Because of this, dogs need immediate veterinary care if they eat a product that contains xylitol. 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. September 28, 2015. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure or even death in dogs. Not all dogs that develop xylitol-induced liver injury develop hypoglycemia. Few studies, however, have evaluated the role of xylitol … Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs What To Do If Your Dog Ate Chocolate (FTC Disclosure: If you make a purchase via a link on this page, I may receive a small commission, at no added cost to you.What Makes Chocolate Poisonous to Dogs? What to do if your pet ingests xylitol Contact your veterinarian, animal emergency hospital, or … The legacy of this great resource continues as the Merck Veterinary Manual in the US and Canada and the MSD Manual outside of North America. One other chocolate product you definitely need to be aware of is sugar-free chocolate. That tragedy echoed an example which first reached us in May 2007 and reminds us that Xylitol has been known to be potentially toxic to dogs for a number of years now: While Xylitol is safe for humans, it can be harmful to dogs. The prognosis for uncomplicated hypoglycemia is good, if prompt treatment is obtained. Xylitol toxicity occurs when a dog eats enough of the product to cause damaging effects in the body. Zinc Poisoning in Dogs and Cats. Over recent years, the number and types of products that contain xylitol has greatly increased. Actually, Xylitol is more dangerous for dogs than cats. The form of xylitol used in a product affects its toxicity, as well. Nutrition facts and Information for Xylitol. 10 Conversion of xylitol to glucose and ultimately glycogen is possible and occurs in the liver … Please note symptoms typically occur between four and 24 hours after your dog has eaten chocolate, though assessment and treatment may be required immediately. This generally contains the sweetener xylitol (read more about xylitol poisoning) and this is horrendously toxic to dogs.It only takes a tiny amount to be deadly, causing a rapid drop in blood glucose levels and even liver failure if a dog survives for long enough. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used to sweeten sugar-free products such as gums, candies, and baked goods. Please confirm that you are a health care professional. We’re committed to keeping clients and staff safe during COVID-19 with NEW admittance and check-out processes. April 24, 2015; Sugar substitute kills Colorado dog. Chemically, it is a sugar alcohol, and found naturally in berries, plums, corn, oats, mushrooms, lettuce, trees, and some other fruits. Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs: The Peanut Butter Danger. The dose of xylitol that can cause hypoglycemia in the dog has been reported between 50 milligrams (mg) of xylitol per pound of body weight (100 mg per kg). A presumptive diagnosis of xylitol poisoning is made if you know or suspect that the dog ate something containing xylitol, and there are symptoms of hypoglycemia. The LD 50 of both caffeine and theobromine is reportedly 100–200 mg/kg, but severe signs and deaths may occur at much lower dosages, and individual sensitivity to methylxanthines varies. Contributors: Ahna Brutlag, DVM, MS, DABT, DABVT, Associate Director of Veterinary Services, Pet Poison Helpline. Xylitol may also be protective against osteoporosis, as it leads to increased bone volume and bone mineral content in rats (14, 24). J Sm Anim Pract 49 (1), 47-49 PubMed.