Is Xylitol Toxic to Pets?
Yes — xylitol is toxic to cats. Yes — xylitol is toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Toxic compound
- Xylitol
- Toxic parts
- Sugar-free gum, candy, some peanut butters, toothpaste, baked goods
- Also known as
- birch sugar, sugar-free gum, sugar free gum
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate xylitol
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your dog ate xylitol
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
In dogs, xylitol causes a sudden drop in blood sugar within minutes to hours and can cause liver failure. Data in cats is limited; treat any exposure as an emergency.
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Frequently asked questions
Is xylitol toxic to cats?
Yes — xylitol is toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is xylitol toxic to dogs?
Yes — xylitol is toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Which parts of xylitol are toxic?
Sugar-free gum, candy, some peanut butters, toothpaste, baked goods.
What makes xylitol toxic?
Xylitol.
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