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Winter 2010

Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs

Xylitol is a white crystalline substance that is used as a sugar substitute sweetener. It is being used more frequently in food products such as chewing gum, sugar free candy and other foods. It is also available in a granulated form for baking, and is now being included in some toothpastes and mouth rinses due to it’s anti-cavity properties.

In humans, xylitol is absorbed slowly and has only minimal effect on our blood glucose. In dogs, it is absorbed very quickly into the bloodstream, and promotes insulin release, which then causes profound hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Problems associated with hypoglycaemia can start with vomiting, lethargy, weakness, diarrhoea, collapse and seizures.

Xylitol can also cause liver failure and bleeding disorders that can lead to death. The toxic dose of xylitol is estimated to be about 100mg/kg. There is about 1g of xylitol in 1 piece of chewing gum, so 1-2 pieces of chewing gum (that is only, or largely sweetened with xylitol) can be enough to cause hypoglycaemia in a 10kg dog.  

 

1 cup of baking xylitol contains about 190 grams. There is no antidote for xylitol, treatment is by providing supportive therapy and controlling the blood sugar levels, and it can take days for the blood sugar to normalise.

Amounts in excess of 500mg/kg have been reported to cause liver problems and bleeding disorders. Your dog will not necessarily show signs of low blood sugar if there is liver damage, which can take a few days. There is a poor chance of survival if your dog shows signs of liver failure, bleeding disorders, or slips into a coma.

The concentration of xylitol in pet mouth rinses is so dilute that your dog would almost have to drink an undiluted bottle to have toxic effects.

To date, it is unknown exactly what effect xylitol has in cats. Luckily we do not come across chewing gum eating cats too often.

 

Of course, there are many other causes for low blood sugar and the other signs mentioned subsequent to xylitol toxicity, so please consult one of our veterinarians if you have any concerns.