Xylitol is dangerous to dogs and cats, as it can cause the pet to become severely hypoglycemic (low blood sugar), liver failure, seizures, and even death.

Xylitol is becoming increasingly popular as it has a sweet taste, but fewer calories than normal sugar.  It's seen in many diabetic snacks and gums, but has grown to be used in baked goods and several brands of Peanut Butter, once presumed perfectly safe for pets.

Don't worry!  Your dog can still enjoy Peanut Butter!  You just have to read the label.  If it doesn't contain Xylitol (or chocolate or other known substance that's bad for dogs), then it's safe.  If it says it has Xylitol, don't feed it to your pets!

Use caution buying homemade dog treats from others as well.  Quiz them on the ingredients: did they check before making them that there was no xylitol in anything they used?  If not, then don't take the risk!  It's not worth your pet's life for a special, tasty treat.

How can Xylitol poisoning be treated?  Xylitol poisoning symptoms include weakness, lethargy, stumbling/incoordination, vomiting, tremors/seizures, and collapse.  Treatment depends on how much was ingested and how long ago.  Your vet may induce vomiting if it happened just before you called.  Blood work will evaluate glucose, electrolyte levels, and liver values to determine the damage done.  Treatment is supportive with intravenous fluids and dextrose, liver supplements, and close monitoring.

Caught early and with small amounts, prognosis can be favorable.  Caught late or in large amounts, especially once liver damage develops, prognosis is poor.

Be sure to keep all candies, mints, gum, dental hygiene products, and anything else possibly containing xylitol out of reach of your pets.  If you suspect your pet may have ingested xylitol, have the wrapper/container in hand (if possible) and call your veterinarian immediately.  The sooner your pet begins treatment, the better the prognosis.

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