Emergency? Call now - do not wait for symptoms.
Is Grapes toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Food | Last reviewed: June 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
EMERGENCYCats
TOXICGrapes and dogs
Tartaric acid is now the leading suspected toxic agent in grapes and raisins, identified by ASPCA Animal Poison Control researchers in 2021. Because tartaric acid content varies hugely between grapes (by variety, ripeness, growing region, and season), there is no reliable safe dose. Some dogs have eaten a single grape and developed acute kidney failure; others have eaten more with no symptoms. Do not gamble.
Onset
12-24 hours for kidney symptoms; vomiting often within hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - diarrhoea
- - lethargy
- - loss of appetite
- - abdominal pain
- - decreased urination
- - kidney failure
What to do now
Treat any grape or raisin ingestion as an emergency. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or rush to an emergency vet immediately. Kidney damage can be irreversible.
Grapes and cats
Cats are rarely drawn to grapes, but the same toxic mechanism applies. Any ingestion should be treated urgently.
Onset
12-24 hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - lethargy
- - kidney damage
What to do now
Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or your vet immediately.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - Tartaric acid as the suspected toxic principle in grapes and raisins - JAVMA 2021 (ASPCA APCC)
- - Pet Poison Helpline
Last reviewed: June 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.
This page is a quick verdict. For a comprehensive guide including serving sizes, nutritional benefits, and safe preparation methods, see: candogseatgrapes.com