PSA for those with dogs

[Puppmom]

Took my pup to the vet today because he’s got an infected lump (at the moment thinking either sebaceous cyst or some sort of bite). The vet prescribed antibiotics and said to take them with food. I asked for clarification if it has to be a meal or if a spoonful of peanut butter was enough. She said with a meal but then warned me that some companies are adding the artificial sweetener Xylitol to peanut butter and it is poisonous to dogs. Who knew!? Not me.

I checked our PB and that’s not an ingredient but I know there are lots of animal lovers on this forum and, figured if I didn’t know, then maybe some of you didn’t either.

 

[Queenie60]

Thank you for this information. Who would have known?

 

[Arcadian]

yes all true, I do natural peanut butter only and thats because of the dog. There was a huge discussion on on of the greyhound boards about this very thing. They're sticking Xylitol in damn near anything. Bad part is, its "naturally occuring" so this is how some manufacturers use it without consequense. I believe whole foods even carried it at one point (they may have stopped)

So if you buy peanut butter, get the one that says peanuts and only peanuts (ok maybe salt is ok)

 

[yennyfire]

Oh my goodness! Thanks for the heads up! I wasn't aware of that either!

 

[AGBF]

I don't have a dog at the moment, but I am very glad I read this. Thank you so much, Puppmom! (I always buy the natural peanut butter for myself, but we have the bad stuff-Skippy, I think-in the house because my daughter eats it.)

Deb

 

[Puppmom]

I didn’t realize it’s classified as naturally occurring. So tricky!

We usually do natural but I sometimes buy the JIF whipped. That has surprisingly few ingredients thank goodness!

 

[AGBF]

I didn’t realize it’s classified as naturally occurring. So tricky!

I don't know if I even knew that xylitol was poisonous to dogs, let alone that it could be in peanut butter! The peanut butter I eat is only peanuts and salt, but now I have to worry about other things that might contain xylitol!

 

[luv2sparkle]

I did know that because I use xylitol in my coffee. But I use it in nothing else for that very reason. I am not too worried about my coffee cup since the dogs don't have access to it, but won't use it in anything else. It's a shame because it is a darn good natural sweetener made from birch bark.

 

[lovedogs]

I don't know if I even knew that xylitol was poisonous to dogs, let alone that it could be in peanut butter! The peanut butter I eat is only peanuts and salt, but now I have to worry about other things that might contain xylitol!

Yup. I found that out after we fed my pup 1/2 of a gummy bear when she was young (because it was cute to see her eat something gummy, and obviously we didn't give her much), and then panicked when I realized it had xylitol in it!

 

[kenny]

Thanks for the heads up.

 

[TooPatient]

Yep! In all sorts of food now. I read the ingredients of anything we buy (do mostly fresh ingredients and cook) and won't purchase anything with that awful stuff.

I prefer to get my peanut butter from one of the stores with grinders so I can grind what I want myself and know that it is just peanuts.

When I am in hurry, I buy the Safeway organic brand. (Ingredients list in pic)

 

[Austina]

Thanks, the Spinoni groups I belong to sent out the alert a while ago as they do love peanut butter

 

[Lorelei]

That's an excellent reminder as Pup-lic Service Announcement, you have to be so careful with all the hidden dangers to our furbabies.

 

[missy]

I hope your sweet pup is feeling better very soon @Puppmom. Thanks for the PSA and here is a comprehensive list of things fyi.

https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-foods-your-dog-should-never-eat

 

[missy]

yes all true, I do natural peanut butter only and thats because of the dog. There was a huge discussion on on of the greyhound boards about this very thing. They're sticking Xylitol in damn near anything. Bad part is, its "naturally occuring" so this is how some manufacturers use it without consequense. I believe whole foods even carried it at one point (they may have stopped)

So if you buy peanut butter, get the one that says peanuts and only peanuts (ok maybe salt is ok)

I am not sure the salt *is* OK. I think a drop of salt is safe but more than that could be toxic. They don't tolerate or need it the way humans do. I do not know the details but just a heads up.

The following foods may be dangerous to your pet

• Alcoholic beverages
• Apple seeds
• Apricot pits
• Avocados
• Cherry pits
• Candy (particularly chocolate—which is toxic to dogs, cats, and ferrets—and any candy containing the toxic sweetener Xylitol)
• Coffee (grounds, beans, and chocolate-covered espresso beans)
• Garlic
• Grapes
• Gum (can cause blockages and sugar free gums may contain the toxic sweetener Xylitol)
• Hops (used in home beer brewing)
• Macadamia nuts
• Moldy foods
• Mushroom plants
• Mustard seeds
• Onions and onion powder
• Peach pits
• Potato leaves and stems (green parts)
• Raisins
• Rhubarb leaves
• Salt
• Tea (because it contains caffeine)
• Tomato leaves and stems (green parts)
• Walnuts
• Xylitol (artificial sweetener that is toxic to pets)
• Yeast dough

 

[luv2sparkle]

@missy, in the article you quoted it is noted that xylitol is an artificial sweetener, which it is not. While it is so very toxic to dogs, it’s important to note that a number of natural substances are toxic to dogs including certain plants and chocolate (as mentioned before) The only reason I bring this up, is to say that it is not toxic or bad for humans. It is a sweetener that does not spike blood sugar and can be effective for some people trying to control that. There are some xylitol made from corn but the best for blood sugar are made from the bark of a birch tree.

 

[missy]

@missy, in the article you quoted it is noted that xylitol is an artificial sweetener, which it is not. While it is so very toxic to dogs, it’s important to note that a number of natural substances are toxic to dogs including certain plants and chocolate (as mentioned before) The only reason I bring this up, is to say that it is not toxic or bad for humans. It is a sweetener that does not spike blood sugar and can be effective for some people trying to control that. There are some xylitol made from corn but the best for blood sugar are made from the bark of a birch tree.

Good point luv. Here’s more info for those who want to know more about Xylitol.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/xylitol-101#section1


For the purposes of this thread it is critical to repeat that Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs though it seems safe for most humans. As you point out and in some of the above links there are many natural and not natural substances that are dangerous to our beloved furbabies. It’s a good thread to serve as info and a reminder. We must be ever vigilant to protect our babies.

 

[AGBF]

Grapes are (supposedly) poisonous to dogs, but I saw a video of some Newfies eating them off the vine while on a walk with their owner without harm. (I am assuming that the owner never got the memo about grapes.) That doesn't mean I would ever feed my dog a grape, now that I know they are supposed to be harmful, anymore than I would feed a dog chocolate, but I find it interesting that the dogs gravitate towards grapes in nature. It isn't as if they have a built-in aversion to them as one would think they should. (I mean they are not some unnatural occurring sweet substance like anti-freeze that dogs encounter; they exist in the dogs' natural environment.)

 

[Lorelei]

Grapes are (supposedly) poisonous to dogs, but I saw a video of some Newfies eating them off the vine while on a walk with their owner without harm. (I am assuming that the owner never got the memo about grapes.) That doesn't mean I would ever feed my dog a grape, now that I know they are supposed to be harmful, anymore than I would feed a dog chocolate, but I find it interesting that the dogs gravitate towards grapes in nature. It isn't as if they have a built-in aversion to them as one would think they should. (I mean they are not some unnatural occurring sweet substance like anti-freeze that dogs encounter; they exist in the dogs' natural environment.)

I know Deb it's weird.

I remember my vets having a dog in who had got into the Christmas cake, main ingredient currants and raisins so they had to give him an emetic. Saved his life though.

 

[asscherisme]

I don't have a dog (I have kitties), but as a HUMAN, thanks for the warning! I don't like peanut butter, buy my kids love it. And I am careful about what I feed them. My youngest with autism is VERY sensitive to artificial sweetener and she loves peanut butter.

 

[AGBF]

I am not sure the salt *is* OK. I think a drop of salt is safe but more than that could be toxic. They don't tolerate or need it the way humans do. I do not know the details but just a heads up.

I just saw your list, missy! My huge lab, Biscuit, never got the memo about the cherries! The only way we found out we had a cherry tree behind one of our houses was that Biscuit ate so many cherries (and then pooped out the pits) that we eventually figured out the big tree out in the back yard had to be a very, very mature cherry tree. That dog ate all the fruit that fell onto the ground!!!! And was never the worse for it, either! I wonder if my dogs have lived through things because they are so big? Although I have to tell you that when I was a child we had two Cocker Spaniels (by definition, small) who between them ate six Mounds bars and all they got was diarrhea. That was before anyone knew chocolate was poison to dogs. Maybe there was a good coconut to chocolate ratio in the Mounds bars. I remember there being six bars in the box for some reason....

 

[Arcadian]

I remember the first time my dog ate chocolate....thankfully she's not a tiny little something because she ate half a bag of chocolate chps! Ok so caveat, this wasn't dark chocolate....

The vet laughed, said she didn't eat enough to be toxic for her size, but to be safe, watch for any projectile diareah Nada, she didn't even burp.

Xylitol though is very potent in small amounts. On greyhound board a dog got into her moms handbag and got a piece of gum. Literally 1 piece! Dog was on deaths door for a few days and this was a sizable greyhound! I can't imagine what that would do to a much smaller dog!

If your animal eats commercial dog food, trust and believe they're getting way more sodium than you think!

I mean sure she gets her human treats (the dog loves popcorn and corn chips...and triscuits!) so its a once in a day type of thing. Generally the amount of salt in a teaspoon of natural peanut butter should be quite low.

And also, my dog is a booze hound. She does indeed like beer (but can't stand anything with apples in it)

 

[Puppmom]

Arcadian, the gum seems particularly dangerous because a lot of dogs will dig in your purse and eat anything in it. My MIL’s dog does that. I think he’s usually on the prowl for tissues but will eat anything he finds.

 

[missy]

I just saw your list, missy! My huge lab, Biscuit, never got the memo about the cherries! The only way we found out we had a cherry tree behind one of our houses was that Biscuit ate so many cherries (and then pooped out the pits) that we eventually figured out the big tree out in the back yard had to be a very, very mature cherry tree. That dog ate all the fruit that fell onto the ground!!!! And was never the worse for it, either! I wonder if my dogs have lived through things because they are so big? Although I have to tell you that when I was a child we had two Cocker Spaniels (by definition, small) who between them ate six Mounds bars and all they got was diarrhea. That was before anyone knew chocolate was poison to dogs. Maybe there was a good coconut to chocolate ratio in the Mounds bars. I remember there being six bars in the box for some reason....

Hi Deb! I bet size had something to do with the cherries for sure. Thank goodness Biscuit (love that name) was fine after eating them. It's hard to resist cherries. I love them too.

And for your smaller Cocker Spaniels I agree with you in that maybe the chocolate content isn't that much in a Mounds bar. And thank goodness no dogs were harmed in either incident.

I wish we could adopt a few dogs. I love dogs so much.

 

[doberman]

Grapes are (supposedly) poisonous to dogs, but I saw a video of some Newfies eating them off the vine while on a walk with their owner without harm. (I am assuming that the owner never got the memo about grapes.) That doesn't mean I would ever feed my dog a grape, now that I know they are supposed to be harmful, anymore than I would feed a dog chocolate, but I find it interesting that the dogs gravitate towards grapes in nature. It isn't as if they have a built-in aversion to them as one would think they should. (I mean they are not some unnatural occurring sweet substance like anti-freeze that dogs encounter; they exist in the dogs' natural environment.)

I was attending a lax game for one of my kids and noticed the coach's partner feeding grapes to their puppy. When I told her they were poisonous to dogs she looked at me like I'd grown two heads. But at least she stopped.

 

[luv2sparkle]

I wonder if some of the things listed are toxic to some dog breeds but not all. My boys used to feed our two mini dachshunds frozen grapes in the summer when they were eating them. I never noticed so much as an upset stomach in either of them. I only recently read that you shouldn't feed dogs grapes. There are very few things these two wouldn't eat if given the chance. We have had german shepherds and every single one of them ate avocados in huge amounts since we had a tree. They had the most beautiful coats from eating them. And how many dogs eat pizza crust leftovers? Some of the items on the list are reasonable, like pits but some of those have not been a problem for any animal I have ever had.

 

[KaeKae]

Thank you for the information
Our one dog is on a prescription diet, so all food and treats are doctor approved, only. But while we mostly keep the other dog on the same diet, for convenience (our vet approved that, too) we do occasionally sneak her other treats, I'll have to check our peanut butter, to be sure.

 

[missy]

Additional info from another respected source.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4801869/

Household Food Items Toxic to Dogs and Cats
Cristina Cortinovis1 and Francesca Caloni1,*
Author information ► Article notes ► Copyright and License information ► Disclaimer

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Abstract
Several foods that are perfectly suitable for human consumption can be toxic to dogs and cats. Food-associated poisoning cases involving the accidental ingestion of chocolate and chocolate-based products, Allium spp. (onion, garlic, leek, and chives), macadamia nuts, Vitis vinifera fruits (grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants), products sweetened with xylitol, alcoholic beverages, and unbaked bread dough have been reported worldwide in the last decade. The poisoning episodes are generally due to lack of public knowledge of the serious health threat to dogs and cats that can be posed by these products. The present review aims to outline the current knowledge of common food items frequently involved in the poisoning of small animals, particularly dogs, and provides an overview of poisoning episodes reported in the literature.

Keywords: chocolate, ethanol, grape, macadamia nuts, onion, poisoning, pets, xylitol
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Introduction
Several foods, while safe for humans, may pose a serious threat to the health of dogs and cats. Food-associated poisoning cases involving the accidental ingestion of chocolate, onions, macadamia nuts, Vitis vinifera fruits (grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants), xylitol, and ethanol have been recorded worldwide in the last decade (1–3). Foods accounted for 14.8% of hazardous exposure cases reported to the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Chocolate- and cocoa-based products were most commonly involved, followed by products sweetened with xylitol, onions and garlic, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts, and ethanol (3). In general, the poisoning episodes resulted from a lack of public knowledge of the health hazard to small animals that may be posed by these products. Dogs and cats may be fed harmful foodstuffs by owners unaware of the danger or given the wide occurrence of these products in the home, pets may easily have accidental access to them. Dogs are undiscriminating in their eating habits and will readily ingest potentially harmful foodstuffs, thus being far more commonly affected than cats (4). While some foodstuffs, such as chocolate, have long been known to cause poisoning in dogs and cats, others such as grapes had previously been considered unlikely to cause problems and have emerged as a potential concern only in the last few years (5). As a consequence, cases of significant exposure had been wrongly diagnosed for many years (5). This review aims to outline the current knowledge of common household foods frequently involved in the poisoning of small animals, particularly dogs, and provides an overview of poisoning episodes reported in the literature.


Allium spp.
Onion (Allium cepa), garlic (Allium sativum), leek (Allium porrum), and chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are all members of the genus Allium (Amaryllidaceae family). These bulbous plants are strongly aromatic, producing a characteristic odor when crushed, and are commonly used (fresh, cooked, or dehydrated) as ingredients in many dishes. The components responsible for their toxicity are organosulfoxides. Chewing the plant converts organosulfoxides to a complex mixture of sulfur compounds. The primary toxicological mechanism of Allium-derived sulfur compounds is oxidative hemolysis characterized by the development of methemoglobinemia and Heinz body formation in the erythrocytes (6, 7). Cooking, drying, and processing do not eliminate the toxic effect of Allium spp. (7, 8). Dogs and cats are highly susceptible to Allium toxicosis and the ingestion of 5 g/kg of onions by cats and 15–30 g/kg by dogs is enough to cause clinically important hematologic changes (8). In the case of dogs, hereditary high erythrocyte-reduced glutathione and potassium concentrations observed in certain breeds (e.g., Akita, Shiba, and Jindo) lead to greater susceptibility to onion-induced oxidative damage (9). Clinical signs of Allium toxicosis may appear 1 day or several days after consumption depending on the amounts ingested. Common clinical signs initially include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and depression. Due to the developing anemia, pale mucous membranes, weakness, rapid respiratory and heart rates, jaundice, and dark urine (reddish or brown) indicating hemoglobinuria are subsequently observed (7). Several cases of dog and cat poisoning by Allium spp. have been reported in the literature. Poisoning has been reported to occur after the ingestion of Catalan spring onion commonly known as “calcot” (10), baked garlic (11), onion soufflè (12), butter-cooked onions (13), and Chinese steamed dumplings containing Chinese chives (Allium tuberosum) and garlic (14). A case in which a dog was intentionally fed a large quantity of raw onions by the owner has also been reported (15). From 1994 to 2008, 69 cases of canine poisoning and 4 cases of feline poisoning by Allium spp. ingestion (16) were recorded by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS). In the case of dogs, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and, less frequently, anemia, hematuria, and convulsions were reported. Two cases of death occurred and two dogs were euthanized. In the case of cats, gastrointestinal signs, lethargy, and polydipsia occurred in one case, while anemia and icterus were observed in the second case. One cat remained asymptomatic without treatment, and the other cat died from hemorrhage into the pleural and abdominal cavities (16). Recently, hypertension associated with garlic-induced hemolytic anemia has been reported in the case of a dog (11). No specific antidote is available for Allium toxicosis. Inducing vomiting should be considered in asymptomatic dogs and cats, provided there are no complicating factors and not more than 2 h have elapsed since ingestion (8). The administration of activated charcoal is indicated after vomiting has stopped. Once clinical signs have manifested themselves, treatment should consist of supportive care. Severely anemic animals may require a blood transfusion (8).


Ethanol
Ethanol or ethyl alcohol is a two-carbon alcohol found in a variety of products, such as alcoholic beverages, paint and varnish, medication, perfume, mouthwash, certain types of thermometers, and certain forms of antifreeze. It is also used as a disinfectant, a fuel substitute, and if administered intravenously, as a competitive substrate in the treatment of dogs and cats poisoned by ethylene glycol. Ethanol toxicosis in small animals generally occurs as a result of accidental ingestion of alcoholic beverages (17–20). Ethanol intoxication has also been reported in the case of dogs, following ingestion of rotten apples (21), sloe berries used to make sloe gin (22), and uncooked bread and pizza dough (23–25). The latter contains the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which metabolizes carbohydrate substrates to ethanol and carbon dioxide (26). Once ingested, ethanol is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and crosses the blood–brain barrier (27). The mechanism of action of ethanol is not completely clear. Ethanol is suspected of inhibiting N-methyl-d-aspartate glutamate receptors in brain cells and the related production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (27). Clinical signs usually develop within an hour of ingestion and include central nervous system (CNS) depression, ataxia, lethargy, sedation, hypothermia, and metabolic acidosis (27). Animals may become comatose and develop severe respiratory depression. A distended and painful abdomen due to excessive gas production may be noted in animals that ingest uncooked bread dough (25). Emesis should be induced with extreme caution and only in cases of very recent ingestion by animals that prove to be asymptomatic (27). Recently, hemodialysis has been shown to be beneficial for the rapid removal of ethanol in patients with severe toxicosis (20). Yohimbine, an alpha 2-adrenergic antagonist which readily crosses the blood–brain barrier, has been recommended as an arousal agent in the treatment of ethanol intoxication (25). In previous case reports, most patients recovered when monitored closely and given supportive care (22, 24, 28). Fatal ethanol intoxication was reported in the case of a dog, following the massive ingestion of rotten apples. The dog developed vomiting, ataxia, tremors, and dehydration, and died 48 h later. However, liver damage secondary to the chronic ingestion of rotten apples (presumed to reflect chronic ethanol toxicity) was suspected as a factor in the death of this dog (21).


Grapes and Their Dried Products (Raisins, Sultanas, and Currants)
Grapes, the fruits of Vitis vinifera, and their dried products (raisins, sultanas, and currants) have been reported to cause renal failure in dogs. The fruits may be ingested raw or cooked as ingredients of fruit cake, mince pies, malt loaf, snack bars, scones, and other baked goods (28). The toxic syndrome has also been observed with consumption of marc (the residue of grapes after pressing) (29). The toxic principle(s) and the exact mechanism of grape-induced nephrotoxicity are still unknown. The latter appears to involve a nephrotoxic agent or an idiosyncratic reaction, leading to hypovolemic shock and renal ischemia (30). There is considerable variation in the susceptibility of dogs to grapes and their dried products. In a recent study that reviewed 180 reports recorded by the VPIS between August 1994 and September 2007 on the ingestion of Vitis fruits by dogs, some animals were reported to remain asymptomatic after ingesting up to 1 kg of raisins while others died following the ingestion of just a handful (28). Published case reports have identified renal failure in dogs following the ingestion of estimated doses of raisins as low as 2.8 mg/kg (31) and as little as four to five grapes in a dog weighing 8.2 kg (32) (Table (Table1).1). Therefore, ingestion of any quantity of these fruits should be considered as a potential clinical problem. Vomiting within 24 h of ingestion is the typical clinical sign observed. Diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, and abdominal pain have also been reported (28, 31). Partially digested grapes and grape products may be present in the vomit, fecal material, or both (31–33). This is followed by signs of renal insufficiency or failure (oliguria, anuria, polydipsia, proteinuria, and elevated serum concentrations of creatinine and urea) within a short period (28, 31, 32). In cases of dogs with oliguria or anuria, the prognosis is generally poor (30, 34). The time taken to administer treatment may also play a significant role in the outcome (28). Given the large variability in the tolerance exhibited by dogs, the ingestion of any quantity of grapes or grape products by dogs should be handled aggressively (28). Following recent ingestion, prompt decontamination using emetics and repeated doses of activated charcoal is highly recommended (28, 30). All dogs should receive aggressive intravenous fluid therapy for a minimum of 48–72 h, and their renal function should be monitored for at least 72 h (28, 30).

Table 1
Range of doses of grapes and their dried products (raisins, sultanas, and currants) reported to cause renal failure in dogs.

Breed Age (years) Sex Product Dose Time to onset of clinical signs (h) Outcome Reference
Labrador Retriever (13 dogs)
Golden Retriever (4 dogs)
Others (26 dogs) Range: 0.6–13, median: 4 Male (27 dogs)
Female (16 dogs) Raisins (28 dogs)
Grapes (13 dogs)
Raisins and grapes (2 dogs) Raisinsa:
range: 2.8–36.4 g/kg,
median: 19.6 g/kg <24 (35 dogs)
24–48 (8 dogs) Recovery (23 dogs)
Died (5 dogs)
Euthanized (15 dogs) (31)
Grapesb:
range: 19.6–148.4 g/kg, median: 40.6 g/kg
Labrador Retriever 3 Male Raisins 3 g/kg –c Died or euthanized (35)
Dachshund 5 Male Grapes 4–5 grapes in an 8.2-kg dog – Recovery (32)
German Shepherd Dog cross 4 Male Grapes 4 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
Norwegian Elkhound 5 Male Raisins 4.8 g/kg – Died (32)
Labrador Retriever cross 3.5 Male Grapes 6 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
American Pit Bull Terrier 8.5 Male Raisins 6 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
Labrador Retriever 3.5 Male Currants 7.8 g/kg 12 Recovery (36)
– – – Grapes (5 dogs) 11.6–31.2 g/kgd Few hours Recovery (5 dogs) (33)
Raisins (5 dogs) Died (2 dogs)
Euthanized (3 dogs)
Labrador Retriever 6 Female Raisins 15.7 g/kg 8 Died (32)
Australian Shepherd Dog 7 Male Raisins 18 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
Maltese 2 Female Grape skins 18.8 g/kg 12 Recovery (37)
Galgo Espaniol 1 Female Grapes and marc 20 g/kg 6–7 Euthanized (38)
Maltese 3 Male Grapes 20 g/kg 5 Died (39)
Border Collie 3.5 Male Raisins 20.6 g/kg 12 Recovery (32)
Basenji 10 Female Raisins 24 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
Golden Retriever 2 Male Raisins 30 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
Labrador Retriever 7 Male Raisins 30 g/kg – Died or euthanized (35)
Maltese 2 Female Grapes 65.2 g/kg 8 Euthanized (40)
Open in a separate window
aData are limited to 24 dogs.

bData are limited to four dogs.

cUnknown or not provided.

dData are limited to four dogs.


Hops
Hops, the inflorescences of the female plant of the species Humulus lupulus, are used for beer brewing to add a bitter taste and hoppy aroma to beer and to stabilize the beer foam. As home brewing becomes increasingly popular, companion animals may be at risk of exposure. The ingestion of both fresh and spent hops has been associated with the development of malignant hyperthermia in dogs (41). Any breed of dog may be affected, but breeds predisposed to malignant hyperthermia (e.g., Greyhounds, Labrador Retrievers, Saint Bernards, Pointers, Dobermans, Border Collies, English Springer Spaniels, and northern breeds) appear to be particularly susceptible (42). Hops contain a variety of compounds, including resins, essential oils (hycrocarbons and oxygenated compounds), phenolic compounds (tannins), and nitrogenous compounds (43). These compounds or their metabolites may uncouple oxidative phosphorylation resulting in malignant hyperthermia (6, 42). Clinical signs may be seen within hours of consuming hops and include marked hyperthermia, anxiety, tachycardia, tachypnea, panting, vomiting, abdominal pain, and seizures. Dark brown urine suggesting muscle necrosis may be observed (6, 42). Mortality can be high despite the aggressive therapy for hyperthermia (6). Duncan et al. (44) reported five cases involving dogs (four of which were Greyhounds) that exhibited marked hyperthermia, restlessness, panting, vomiting, signs of abdominal pain, and seizures, after the ingestion of hops. Four of the five dogs died despite intensive care treatment (44). Dogs suspected of recent ingestion of hops should be treated aggressively to decontaminate the gastrointestinal tract. Cooling measures, such as ice baths and cold IV fluids, should be used to lower the high body temperature. If available, dantrolene sodium, a skeletal muscle relaxant that has been used in humans to reverse malignant hyperthermia, may be administered (6, 41, 42).


Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are produced by trees of the genus Macadamia (Proteaceae family). Only two species, Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla, are plants of commercial importance as sources of food. All Macadamia spp. accumulate cyanogenic glycoside (proteacin and durrin) in their seeds but in very low concentrations in the case of commercial seeds (45). Macadamia nuts are very popular as snacks for human consumption, both as plain nuts or when used in cakes, cookies, or candy (46). They are considered to be a valuable food for their low cholesterol and sodium content and as an excellent source of manganese and thiamine (45). Macadamia nut toxicosis has only been reported in dogs to date (1, 47–49). The mechanism of action of their toxicity in the case of dogs is currently unknown and the dose required to induce toxicity has not been established precisely (46). The ingestion of as little as 0.7 g/kg of nuts has been associated with the development of clinical signs in dogs (48). In another case, a series of toxic doses ranging from 2.2 to 62.4 g/kg was reported (49). Clinical signs generally develop within 12 h of ingestion and may include weakness (particularly hind limb weakness), depression, vomiting, ataxia, tremors, hyperthermia, abdominal pain, lameness, stiffness, recumbency, and pale mucous membranes (47–49). Although macadamia nut poisoning is relatively infrequent, 83 cases were reported in Queensland, a major area for Macadamia spp. cultivation in Australia, over a period of 5 years (1). No deaths have been reported to date, and animals are expected to fully recover within 24–48 h with minimal veterinary intervention (46). The induction of emesis should be considered in cases of recent ingestion of macadamia nuts by dogs that prove to be asymptomatic (46).


Methylxanthines (Caffeine, Theobromine, and Theophylline)
Methylxanthines, including caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, are plant-derived alkaloids that are commonly found in a variety of foods, beverages, human medication, and other products in the home. Caffeine is found in coffee (from the fruit of Coffea arabica), tea (from the leaves of Thea sinensis), guarana (from the seeds of Paullinia cupana), and as an additive in many soft drinks. Theobromine occurs in cacao seeds (Theobroma cacao) and in products manufactured from these seeds, such as chocolate. Theophylline is found in tea along with caffeine. Moreover, caffeine is used in human medication to increase mental alertness, and theophylline is widely used as a bronchodilator in anti-asthma drugs (50). Methylxanthines antagonize cellular adenosine receptors and inhibit cellular phosphodiesterases, causing an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) (50). Moreover, methylxanthines enhance the release of catecholamines and increase cellular calcium entry while inhibiting intracellular sequestration of calcium by the sarcoplasmic reticulum, leading to increased muscular contractility (51). These combined actions result in the stimulation of both the CNS and cardiac muscle, the relaxation of smooth muscle, most notably bronchial muscle, and diuresis (50). Methylxanthine poisoning cases have been reported after the ingestion of herbal supplements containing guarana (52), garden mulch made of cacao bean shells (53, 54), caffeine tablets (55, 56), and caffeine-containing bait (57). However, most poisoning cases occur as a result of chocolate ingestion (4, 58–62). Though the intoxication of cats may also occur, dogs are most commonly affected because of their indiscriminate eating habits (4). The presence of chocolate was noted in the 10 most common cases of toxicosis involving dogs reported to the VPIS and to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Animal Poisons Control Center (APCC) in the past few years (60, 63). Poisoning episodes frequently occur around holidays when there is a higher occurrence of chocolate products in the home (4, 60). In addition to theobromine, chocolate contains caffeine but in much lower concentrations. Theobromine and caffeine concentrations vary according to the type of chocolate (4). Unsweetened baking chocolate and cocoa powder usually contain more than 14 mg of theobromine per gram. Semisweet dark chocolate and milk chocolate often contain around 5 and 2 mg of theobromine per gram, respectively, while white chocolate is considered to be an insignificant source of theobromine (50). According to the ASPCA APCC data, mild clinical signs appear in dogs after ingesting 20 mg/kg of theobromine and caffeine, while severe clinical signs are observed at 40–50 mg/kg and seizures occur at 60 mg/kg (4). Dogs with CYP1A2 deficiency polymorphism 1117C > T may be more at risk of poisoning due to reduced metabolism (64, 65). In dogs, caffeine is absorbed rapidly after ingestion while theobromine is absorbed 10 times slower, reaching peak plasma levels at approximately 10 h (50). Initial clinical signs are generally observed within 2–4 h after ingestion and include restlessness, polydipsia, urinary incontinence, vomiting, and perhaps diarrhea. Dogs can be in an excited state and show marked hyperthermia and tachycardia. As intoxication progresses, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, premature ventricular contractions, muscular rigidity, ataxia, seizures, and coma may be observed. Death may occur from cardiac arrhythmia or respiratory failure (50). Decontamination via emesis or gastric lavage, administration of multiple doses of activated charcoal, and meticulous supportive care should be the mainstay of treatment (4, 60). Prognosis is usually good, if effective decontamination is obtained within 2–4 h of ingestion (50, 60).


Xylitol
Xylitol is a five-carbon sugar alcohol primarily used as an artificial sweetener in many products, including sugar-free gum, candy, bread, cookies, and other baked goods. It can also be purchased as a granulated powder for cooking and baking. Because of its antibacterial activity and palatability, xylitol is also included in a variety of medical and dental care products. An additional concern is that the use of xylitol is not just confined to products intended for human use. Xylitol is also an ingredient in drinking water additives developed to help maintain dog and cat dental health (66). The increased marketing and use of xylitol as a sweetener in recent years has led to increased risk of pet exposure to this agent (66, 67). Dogs are the species at the risk of developing severe, life-threatening clinical signs. In dogs, xylitol is a potent stimulator of insulin release, leading to dramatic decrease in blood glucose levels (66, 67). Doses, as low as 0.03 g/kg, have resulted in hypoglycemia in this species (68). Moreover, xylitol ingestion has been associated with liver failure in dogs. The mechanisms responsible for hepatic injury are not clear yet. It is thought to be related to either adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion secondary to xylitol metabolism, leading to hepatic necrosis or the generation of hepatocyte-damaging reactive oxygen species or both (69). According to the ASPCA APCC data, the lowest dose associated with xylitol-induced liver failure in dogs is 0.5 g/kg (70). Clinical signs of xylitol toxicity in dogs may be related to hypoglycemia or hepatopathy or both. Vomiting is usually the initial clinical sign. Clinical signs of hypoglycemia, including lethargy, ataxia, collapse, and seizures, may develop within 30–60 min after ingestion or may be delayed up to 12 h after ingestion (66, 70). In dogs developing hepatopathy, lethargy, icterus, vomiting, and coagulopathic signs, such as petechiae, ecchymoses, and gastrointestinal hemorrhages, may be observed (67, 69). Several cases of xylitol ingestion have been reported in the last decade (69, 71–75). Table Table22 summarizes the cases of xylitol-induced acute hepatic failure reported in the literature. Recently, a retrospective study of the 192 cases of xylitol ingestion by dogs, reported to three American university teaching hospitals from December 2007 to February 2012, has been performed (68). The median estimated dose ingested was 0.32 g/kg (range 0.03–3.64 g/kg). Clinical signs developed in 41 (21%) dogs and primarily included vomiting and lethargy, followed by diarrhea, ataxia, seizures, restlessness, and anorexia (68). Thirty dogs (15.6%) became hypoglycemic and no significant difference was observed between hypoglycemic and euglycemic dogs with regards to the estimated dose of xylitol ingested. No dogs developed clinical signs or showed biochemistry values consistent with liver failure. All dogs survived and were discharged, suggesting an excellent prognosis for dogs that receive prompt veterinary care and evade liver failure (68). Supportive care and monitoring are the mainstay of xylitol toxicity treatment. The induction of emesis should only be attempted early and in asymptomatic animals. Activated charcoal is not recommended because of its poor ability to bind to xylitol (68, 70). Blood glucose levels and liver function should be monitored. If hypoglycemia develops, intravenous dextrose should be administered (69, 70). Xylitol ingestion should always be considered by veterinarians as a differential diagnosis for any unexplained hypoglycemic presentation with or without accompanying liver dysfunction (76).

Table 2
Range of xylitol doses reported to cause acute hepatic failure in dogs.

Breed Age (years) Sex Product Dose (g/kg) Time to onset of clinical signs (h) Outcome Reference
Standard Poodle 3 Male 5 or 6 cookies 1.4–2 24 Died (69)
English Springer Spaniel 2.5 Male Homemade bread containing xylitol 3.7 1–2 Recovered (72)
Labrador Retriever 8 Female Xylitol powder 4.1 2 Recovered (69)
Cocker Spaniel 4 Male 45 pieces of gum 4.7 72 Died (73)
Dalmatian 6 Female 8 muffins sweetened with xylitol 5 9 Recovered (69)
Scottish Terrier 5 Female 30 pieces of gum 7 24 Euthanized (69)
Labrador Retriever mixed breed 6 Female Xylitol powder 13.9 24 Died (69)
Welsh Springer Spaniel 4 Male 4 large chocolate-frosted muffins sweetened with xylitol 15.9 1–2 Euthanized (69)
Miniature Dachshund 7 Female 100 pieces of gum 16 72 Recovered (69)
Chihuahua 9 Male Granulated xylitol 45 1–2 Recovered (75)
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Conclusion
The present review highlights the issue of exposure of small animals, particularly dogs, to potentially harmful foodstuffs commonly present in the home. A noticeable trend in exposure has emerged due to the increasing popularity of xylitol as a sweetener in several products. Obtaining an accurate history of exposure, early recognition of clinical signs, and rapid establishment of appropriate therapy can greatly improve the prognosis of food-related poisoning cases. Large gaps still exist in public knowledge of the hazard that certain foodstuffs may pose to the health of dogs and cats. Preventing exposure is the key to reducing the incidence of these poisoning episodes. Therefore, it is important to increase the knowledge of pet owners with regard to foodstuffs that must not be fed to dogs and cats and should be stored outside their reach.

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Author Contributions
CC and FC gave substantial contributions to the conception and design of the work; drafted the work and revised it critically for important intellectual content; gave final approval of the version to be published; and agreed to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved.

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Conflict of Interest Statement
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. The reviewer PZ and handling Editor declared their shared affiliation, and the handling Editor states that the process nevertheless met the standards of a fair and objective review.

 

[AGBF]

@missy-Biscuit ate the cherries whole, but pooped out the pits. I guess he didn't chew the cherries, just wolfed them down. I wonder if that is why he was OK. Your list said cherry pits are poisonous. My Golden ate an entire piece of lead the plumber had left on the floor (it was hot and wet when it went down it dried into a lump that looked like a tiny mound of soft serve ice cream). We didn't know she had eaten it until it passed out, whole, with her poop. And, of course, lead is poisonous to everybody. I think sometimes, dogs just don't ingest things they eat-thank goodness!

Sorry for being so graphic, but I am assuming that only pet owners who care about these things are reading this thread by now!

Deb

 

[missy]

@missy-Biscuit ate the cherries whole, but pooped out the pits. I guess he didn't chew the cherries, just wolfed them down. I wonder if that is why he was OK. Your list said cherry pits are poisonous. My Golden ate an entire piece of lead the plumber had left on the floor (it was hot and wet when it went down it dried into a lump that looked like a tiny mound of soft serve ice cream). We didn't know she had eaten it until it passed out, whole, with her poop. And, of course, lead is poisonous to everybody. I think sometimes, dogs just don't ingest things they eat-thank goodness!

Sorry for being so graphic, but I am assuming that only pet owners who care about these things are reading this thread by now!

Deb

Very interesting and yes I appreciate you sharing the details Deb. I’m relieved Biscuit was none the worse for wear after his cherry adventure.