Sweeteners
Is Xylitol safe for dogs and cats?
Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs and should be kept away from all pets.
If your pet already ate this and seems sick, contact a veterinarian or
pet poison hotline now. Bring the package label, amount eaten, and the
time of exposure if you have them.
Quick verdict
| Dogs | Toxic |
|---|---|
| Cats | Avoid |
| Risk level | High |
For dogs
In dogs, xylitol can cause a rapid insulin release and a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Some exposures are medical emergencies.
For cats
Cats are not reported to be at the same hypoglycemia risk as dogs, but xylitol products should still be kept away from cats.
Symptoms to watch for
Vomiting, weakness, stumbling, collapse, seizures, and signs of liver injury can occur in dogs.
What to do
If your dog ate gum, candy, baked goods, toothpaste, or peanut butter with xylitol, contact a veterinarian or pet poison hotline immediately.
Sources
- FDA - Potentially Dangerous Items for Your Pet (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
- FDA - Paws Off! Xylitol is Toxic to Dogs (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
- ASPCA - People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center)
- Merck Veterinary Manual - Food Hazards (Merck Veterinary Manual)
- Merck Veterinary Manual - Xylitol Toxicosis in Dogs (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Last reviewed: .