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XyLitol and Birch Sugar are one in the same
If you are a pet owner, you’ve probably heard about Xylitol, but did you know that Xylitol is now being marketed as Birch Sugar?
What exactly is Xylitol? Xylitol is a lower-calorie sugar substitute with a low glycemic index. It is fine for people to use, but it is toxic to dogs. If a dog digests it, Xylitol can cause liver failure or death. The reason it is called Birch Sugar is because it is found in birch trees. This sugar substitute is often used to replace sugar or carborhydrates in diet foods.
When a dog digests Xylitol, it causes the body sugar to release large amounts of insulin, which in turn can lead to low blood sugar levels, and eventually death. Some symptoms of xylitol poisoning can include: vomiting, lethargy, confusion, weakness, unconsciousness and seizures. Symptoms may appear as quick as 10 minutes after digestion and up to 24 hours.
What foods have Xylitol?
Many toothpastes and mouthwashes have Xylitol in them because of the health benefits. When brushing your dog’s teeth, always use a dog toothpaste because human toothpastes are not safe.
Here’s a list of some other products that may have Xylitol (Birch Sugar) in them: Chocolate or candy, Sugar-free chewing gum, meal replacement shakes, Powdered drinks, Peanut Butter, Flavored gelatins, Ice Creams, Non-fat or sugar-free yogurts and Greek yogurts, and some condiments.
What should I do if I think my dog has eaten a product with Xylitol?
Call your vet immediately. There are treatments for this, but they need to be administered immediately so don’t wait. Also, don’t try to make your dog vomit without first consulting your vet.
Until next time,
Hugs and Pug kisses,
Candy
