Xylitol Poisoning

The Animal Poison Control Center of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has managed a substantially increased number of cases involving xylitol poisoning in dogs.  Found in sugar-free chewing gum, candy, and baked goods, xylitol is a sweeterner than can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening problems for pets.

The center managed more than 170 cases of xylitol poisoning in 2005, up from approximately 70 in 2004.  As of August, the center had managed nearly 114 cases in 2006.

While it was previously thought that only large concentrations of xylitol could cause problems in dogs, lesser amounts of the sweeterner may also be harmful.  With smaller concentrations of xylitol, the onset of clinical signs could be delayed as much as 12 hours after ingestion.

Dogs ingesting substantial amounts of items sweetened with xylitol could develop a sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in depression, loss of coordination, and seizures.  These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 3- minutes after ingestion of the product.  Therefore, it is crucial that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately.  There also appears to be a link between xylitol ingestion and the development of liver failure in dogs.  For more information on xylitol and other products poisonous to pets, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Contro Center by loggin on to www.aspca.org.