We want to make our clients aware
of a sugar substitute which is toxic to dogs and is now being used in some peanut
and other nut butters. This product is
called Xylitol. Because peanut and other
nut butters are a treat that pets commonly enjoy, we feel that it is important
that our clients are aware of this potential danger.
Xylitol is safe for humans to
consume due to our different metabolic rate.
Xylitol is absorbed relatively slowly in humans causing little to no
reaction and quite rapidly in dogs causing blood sugar levels to drop which can
be quite harmful.
Although we are not certain
why, Xylitol can also cause damage to the liver. Signs and symptoms typically develop 8 – 12 hours
after exposure. How a pet reacts is
dependent on the amount of xylitol ingested in relation to the size of the dog.
Complications can range from temporary illness to acute liver failure and even
to death.
Symptoms of Xylitol poisoning
include:
·
Vomiting · Lethargy and weakness
· Diarrhea
· Collapse
· Seizures
At Streetsville Animal
Hospital, we often hear from clients about how their pets enjoy peanut butter
as a treat, as a filling for their Kong or as a way to administer
medication. It is very important that
labels are checked before offering any type of nut butter, especially ones
purchased at health-food stores.
Some alternative names for
Xylitol are:
·
1,4-anhydro-d-xylitol· Anhydroxylitol
· Birch bark extract
· Birch sugar
· D-xylitol
· Xylite
· Xylityglucoside
· Zylatol
Treatment for Xylitol
poisoning differs depending on how quickly it is discovered. If it is within 30 minutes, vomiting can be
induced although beyond that timing, hospitalization and aggressive supportive
care is required.
If you have any additional questions regarding this information, as
always please feel free to give us a call and we would be more than happy to
help!
-Jennifer
