Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is found in a variety of chewing gums, sugar-free products, peanut butters, toothpastes, and many household products. In humans, Xylitol fails to cause a release of insulin into the blood. Insulin is responsible for pulling glucose (sugar in the blood) into the surrounding cells in the body to use for energy. In dogs, even in small amounts, Xylitol can cause a large amount of insulin to be dumped into the blood stream causing the overall blood sugar level to drop very quickly resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can be fatal in your dog if left untreated. Liver damage can also result through mechanisms that are not well understood at this time.
If your dog has ingested Xylitol, it’s recommended they be seen immediately by their veterinarian. Depending on how long ago your dog had ingested the Xylitol, vomiting would be recommended to see if we can get any of the product out. A blood panel will be run to check your dog’s glucose and liver values along with other blood parameters. Supportive care with IV fluids, glucose supplementation, liver antioxidants and supportive care, and blood monitoring would be recommended to try and get your pet through this toxicity safely. Dogs that only develop hypoglycemia have a better prognosis than those that develop issues with their liver. Those that develop liver issues will require very aggressive treatment and have an uncertain prognosis. Make sure to keep any products containing Xylitol safely tucked away from your dog!
About The Author
Dr. Jen Lassler | I was born in the Los Angeles area where I grew up with my mom, older brother, and 2 (very large and furry) mixed breed dogs. “Pumpkin” and “Barkey” were my best friends and, when I was 5, we took them to our veterinarian to get their vaccines. They were tough cookies, and didn’t cry at the doctor the way I did. I knew I wanted to help animals feel better and prevent them from getting sick. Mostly, I just wanted to be surrounded by dogs and cats! Every Career Day at school, ‘veterinarian’ stayed at the top of my list…followed by baker and private eye.
Learn more about Dr. Lassler on the “Meet Our Doctors” page.