Pet Toxin Reference
Xylitol
Severe
Act now: Remove access immediately. Save the package, label, or plant photo. Call your veterinarian or a poison service right away; do not wait for symptoms. Go to an emergency clinic immediately if any signs are present or if a large/known exposure occurred.
Quick Facts
Common Sources
Sugar-free gum, mints, candies, baked goods, peanut butter, supplements, toothpaste, some medications
Highest Risk
Sugar-free gum and mints (high xylitol per piece)
Category
Food
Early Signs
Vomiting, weakness, sleepiness, wobbliness
Emergency Signs
Seizures, collapse, coma, liver failure
Call Your Vet
Call as soon as exposure is suspected, even if your pet seems normal.
Triage & Next Steps
Why this is dangerous
In dogs, xylitol can trigger a rapid insulin surge that causes life-threatening low blood sugar and sometimes liver injury.
Go to ER immediately if
Go now for collapse, repeated vomiting, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, marked weakness, severe drooling, pale gums, trouble urinating, or any rapidly worsening signs.
What not to do
Do not induce vomiting, give milk/oil/bread, or try home remedies unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to.
Prevention
Keep human foods out of reach, use closed trash bins, warn guests and children, and check ingredient labels before sharing any treat.