Is Xylitol Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Xylitol is severely toxic to dogs and can cause a sudden blood-sugar crash and liver failure. It is also risky for cats. Call a vet immediately.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is severely toxic to dogs and can cause a sudden blood-sugar crash and liver failure. It is also risky for cats. Call a vet immediately.
Also known as: birch sugar, sugar alcohol, sugar-free gum, sugar-free candy, peanut butter sweetener.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- A dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) within 30–60 minutes
- Vomiting, weakness, and staggering
- Seizures from low blood sugar
- Possible liver failure within hours to days
🐈 In Cats
- Possible low blood sugar with drooling and weakness
- Vomiting
- Liver effects are less documented in cats but cannot be ruled out
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline immediately — do not wait for symptoms.
- Note the product and how much was eaten.
- Unless directed by a professional, do not induce vomiting (blood sugar can crash fast).
- Have honey or corn syrup on hand only if a vet tells you to use it for low blood sugar.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Any xylitol-containing product was eaten
- Vomiting, weakness, or staggering
- Seizures or collapse
- Jaundice (yellow gums or eyes) or reduced appetite in the following days
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What products contain xylitol?
Sugar-free gum, mints, and candy are the most common, but xylitol also appears in some peanut butters, baked goods, toothpaste, mouthwash, chewable vitamins, and supplements. Check labels for "xylitol" or "birch sugar".
How fast does xylitol affect dogs?
Blood sugar can drop within 30 to 60 minutes, causing vomiting, weakness, and seizures. Liver damage can follow over hours to days. Because it acts fast, do not wait for symptoms — call a vet immediately.
Should I make my dog vomit after eating xylitol?
Not on your own. Because xylitol can crash blood sugar very quickly, inducing vomiting without professional guidance can be dangerous. Call a veterinarian or poison hotline first and follow their instructions.
Is xylitol dangerous to cats?
Cats appear less sensitive than dogs, but xylitol is still considered risky for cats and can cause low blood sugar and vomiting. Call a vet if a cat eats a xylitol product rather than waiting to see what happens.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
- ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Toxicology
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poisons
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11