Why is xylitol so dangerous for dogs?
Xylitol is absorbed rapidly in dogs and triggers a strong insulin release, causing hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) within 30–60 minutes — even before you notice anything. Higher doses can cause acute liver failure within 1–3 days.
It is found in sugar-free gum, mints, toothpaste, baked goods, vitamins, and increasingly in peanut butter. Cats are far less sensitive, but xylitol products still shouldn’t be given to cats.
About the dose levels
Reference bands (dogs): <0.05 g/kg usually no signs · 0.05–0.1 g/kg monitor · 0.1–0.5 g/kg high risk of hypoglycaemia · >0.5 g/kg high risk of liver failure. Any dose above trace amounts deserves a vet call.
Reference bands (dogs): <0.05 g/kg usually no signs · 0.05–0.1 g/kg monitor · 0.1–0.5 g/kg high risk of hypoglycaemia · >0.5 g/kg high risk of liver failure. Any dose above trace amounts deserves a vet call.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting, weakness, wobbliness (ataxia)
- Extreme lethargy, collapse
- Tremors or seizures (from low blood sugar)
- Within 1–3 days: jaundice, dark urine, liver failure
What to do right now
- Time matters — call your vet immediately and say “xylitol ingestion”.
- Do not wait for symptoms; hypoglycaemia can start within 30 minutes.
- If your dog is weak or collapsing, give sugar (corn syrup or honey on the gums) on the way to the vet — but only if swallowing is safe.
- Expect blood tests and monitoring for 24–72 hours, possibly IV glucose and liver support.
If your pet shows any of the signs above, go to the nearest emergency vet now and call ahead.
For a dose worked out against your pet's weight, use the Xylitol Poisoning Calculator.