Why are macadamia nuts toxic to dogs?
The mechanism is unknown, but macadamia nuts trigger a temporary, non-fatal toxicosis in dogs: weakness, wobbliness, tremors and fever typically starting within 12 hours and lasting 12–48 hours. Cases are rarely fatal, and recovery is usually complete with supportive care.
Clinical cases are reported from as little as ~2.4 g of nuts per kg (about one nut for a 10 kg dog can sometimes cause mild signs).
Most reported cases fall between ~2.4 and 63 g/kg. Below ~0.5 g/kg symptoms are unlikely; above ~7 g/kg symptoms are likely. This is a published-range estimate.
Symptoms of macadamia poisoning
- Weakness in the hind legs, wobbliness
- Vomiting, lethargy
- Tremors, fever, panting
- Difficulty standing or walking
What to do right now
- Contact your vet for any significant amount; mild cases may only need observation.
- Do not induce vomiting without instruction.
- Keep your dog warm and quiet and let them rest.
- Check for chocolate co-ingestion — chocolate-covered nuts need chocolate triage too.
Sources & further reading
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
- Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
- Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
- Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance
Other poisonings with overlapping signs
- Mothballs (Naphthalene, Paradichlorobenzene) — shares signs: vomiting, tremors
- 5-HTP & Herbal Supplements — shares signs: tremors, vomiting
- Antihistamines (Diphenhydramine) — shares signs: tremors, vomiting
Owners also ask
- My dog just ate one mothball that fell from the closet. What should I do?
- Is 5-HTP more dangerous for kittens than adult cats?
Frequently asked questions
Is Macadamia Nut Toxicity Calculator poisonous to a dog or cat?
The mechanism is unknown, but macadamia nuts trigger a temporary, non-fatal toxicosis in dogs: weakness, wobbliness, tremors and fever typically starting within 12 hours and lasting 12–48 hours. Cases are rarely fatal, and recovery is usually complete with supportive care.
What are the symptoms of macadamia poisoning?
Weakness in the hind legs, wobbliness; Vomiting, lethargy; Tremors, fever, panting; Difficulty standing or walking
What should I do if my pet ate Macadamia Nut Toxicity Calculator?
Contact your vet for any significant amount; mild cases may only need observation. Do not induce vomiting without instruction. Keep your dog warm and quiet and let them rest.
How much Macadamia Nut Toxicity Calculator is dangerous?
Most reported cases fall between ~2.4 and 63 g/kg. Below ~0.5 g/kg symptoms are unlikely; above ~7 g/kg symptoms are likely. This is a published-range estimate.
Not the substance you were looking for? Open the full answer index.