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Xylitol (Birch Sugar)

Pet toxin reference — educational information only.
Pet toxins

What to know

Xylitol (Birch Sugar) — toxicity in dogs

EmergencyApplies to: dogs.

Overview

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. It is found in sugar-free gum, sugar-free candy, some peanut butters, toothpaste, mouthwash, sugar-free baked goods, and certain vitamins or supplements. In dogs, xylitol triggers a massive release of insulin from the pancreas, causing a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) that can occur within 30 minutes. At higher doses, xylitol causes acute liver failure. As little as 0.1 g/kg of body weight can cause hypoglycemia in dogs. Xylitol may also be labeled as birch sugar or birch sap on ingredient lists. Cats appear to be less affected, but caution is still advised.

Symptoms

Vomiting, collapse, seizures, liver failure, hypoglycemia

Typical onset

30-60 minutes

What to do

Seek emergency care immediately. Xylitol causes rapid, life-threatening blood sugar drops in dogs.

This page is educational and does not replace veterinary advice. If your pet may have been exposed, call UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

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Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. It is found in sugar-free gum, sugar-free candy, some peanut butters, toothpaste, mouthwash, sugar-free baked goods, and certain vitamins or supplements. In dogs, xylitol triggers a massive release of insulin from the pancreas, causing a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) that can occur within 30 minutes. At higher doses, xylitol causes acute liver failure. As little as 0.1 g/kg of body weight can cause hypoglycemia in dogs. Xylitol may also be labeled as birch sugar or birch sap on ingredient lists. Cats appear to be less affected, but caution is still advised.

Symptoms
Vomiting, collapse, seizures, liver failure, hypoglycemia
Onset
30-60 minutes
What to do now
Seek emergency care immediately. Xylitol causes rapid, life-threatening blood sugar drops in dogs.
Call UVEC now: (801) 218-2227
This tool is informational only and does not replace veterinary advice. If ingestion may have happened, contact UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.