Many pet owners believe they are aware of what is toxic to dogs. Chocolate, caffeine and grapes are just a few that dog owners are well aware of. However, many dog owners are not aware of the danger of xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in many sugar-free products. When ingested by dogs, xylitol may cause vomiting, weakness, lethargy, loss of coordination, seizures, hypoglycemia, liver failure and even death. Below are a few common products that may contain xylitol:
- Sugar-free gums
- Candies
- Breath mints
- Children’s chewable vitamins
- Toothpastes
- Mouthwashes
- Baked goods
- Some peanut and nut butters
Signs of xylitol toxicity appears quickly – usually within 15-30 minutes of consumption. If you suspect that your dog has ingested xylitol, contact your veterinarian immediately. If you do use products containing xylitol, store them in a safe place that is completely out of reach of your pets.
