Household Items that are Toxic to Dogs

Let's discuss household items that are toxic to dogs. As a dog owner you are probably aware that chocolate can be toxic to dogs as well as household cleaners. However, did you know that you probably have other common products in your home that can be toxic to your pooch. This article will explain what xylitol toxicity in dogs is.

You've probably never heard of xylitol, but it's probably been in your mouth. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is used in many products as a sweetener. It is most commonly used in things such as candy, gum, baked goods, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

Obviously, you wouldn't give those things to your dog, but dogs sometimes get into trouble by eating things that they shouldn't. If a dog ingests xylitol is can be toxic. Symptoms of xylitol toxicity include vomiting, seizures, lethargy, collapse, and loss of coordination. These symptoms of likely to develop in a half hour or less after the dog has ingested the xylitol product. In some cases, if a dog has eaten sugar-free gum containing xylitol the symptoms can develop up to 12 hours after consumption.

Xylitol toxicity can be serious it can cause internal bleeding in a dog's stomach or intestines. It can also lead to liver failure if a dog has low blood sugar. Xylitol is toxic to dogs because it increases insulin and causes a decrease in blood glucose. Depending on a dog's weight, ingestion of a single piece of sugar-free candy could be toxic.

If your dog does have xylitol toxicity your veterinarian may induce vomiting and put the animal on a fluid therapy regimen. If liver failure doesn't occur, most dogs lead a full recovery, however liver failure should lead to a dogs death.

To prevent your dog from experiencing xylitol toxicity make sure all of your gum, candy, toothpaste, etc. is somewhere that your dog can't get to. Keep them in locked cabinets and don't leave your purse on the floor.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.