Popular Artificial Sweetener Xylitol Could Prove Fatal If Ingested By Dogs

Xylitol could prove fatal in case it is consumed by dogs, according to a new study. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has urged dog owners to be aware of Xylitol and the products that contain this chemical.

Xylitol is a commonly used artificial sweetener, which is also contained in sugar-free gums and several other products. Over the last few years, the incidence of dogs being poisoned by Xylitol has increased significantly.

According to American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center, Xylitol-related cases of dog poisoning have increased from 82 in 2004 to 3,700 in 2014. In addition, the Pet Poison Helpline reports a 15 percent increase in the number of poisoning-related calls in 2016 itself.

Xyitol is safe for consumption for humans. However, it may have fatal consequences in dogs since their bodies do not process the chemical as humans do. According to the FDA, Xylitol does not trigger the released of insulin in humans. However, in case of dogs, Xylitolis is readily absorbed into the bloodstream. This, in turn, triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas.

Chewing gum is one of the products that contain Xylitol. Therefore, it is one of the most commonly-available everyday product that dogs should be prevented from. Others products containing Xylitol include cough syrup, toothpaste, breath mints, sugar candies and mouthwash.

Dogs who are poisoned by Xylitol may experience vomiting, followed by a sharp decrease in blood sugar. This, in turn, leads to decreased body activity, weakness, collapse, seizures and lack of coordination.

Considering their activity and hunger, dog owners should keep their dogs away from such products and also from the common areas in their homes where they tend to store Xylitol-containing products. In case people are not sure whether their dog has consumed any Xylitol, the officials suggest people look at the food product label.