Xylitol: The Poorly Known Toxin

Most pet owners are aware that chocolate and grapes are dangerous for dogs, but did you know to be on the lookout for xylitol as well? Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that has become a popular artificial sweetener in sugarless gum, candy, throat lozenges, chewable vitamins, toothpaste, protein powder and baking sugar substitute. It is present in numerous everyday products. This sweetener is safe for humans but extremely dangerous to dogs.

When dogs ingest xylitol, their insulin level rises and their blood sugar level drops to dangerously low levels. The low blood sugar causes weakness and disorientation. The pet-owner may notice that his or her dog seems drunk or dizzy. Dogs may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.

Severe reactions to xylitol include liver failure, seizures, coma and death. The effects of xylitol stay in a dog's system for several days, requiring prolonged hospitalization, even in less serious cases.

How much xylitol is dangerous? Surprisingly little. Most gums that have xylitol listed as the main sweetener contain about 1 gram of xylitol per stick. At a dose of 0.1 gram per kilogram, dogs can experience dangerously low blood sugar levels. This is about 1 stick of gum for a small dog, such as a Bichon. At a dose of 0.5 gram per kilogram dogs are a risk for liver toxicity. A Labrador eating one pack of gum would be a high risk for liver failure.

Successful treatment requires prompt action. If you think your dog has ingested xylitol, call your veterinarian right away. Xylitol in candy is rapidly absorbed and can cause toxicity in as little as 30 minutes. With gum there is a little more time since the xylitol needs to be absorbed from the gum. Often, much of the xylitol can be removed from the body by inducing vomiting and preventing the toxicity. Dogs that have ingested a toxic dose of xylitol need to be hospitalized for days while they are monitored and treated for low blood sugar and liver failure.

Don't take a chance with your dog's life! Be sure to keep your pets away from any products containing this artificial sweetener.