Emergency? Call now - do not wait for symptoms.
Is Xylitol toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Food | Last reviewed: April 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
EMERGENCYCats
CAUTIONXylitol and dogs
Xylitol triggers a massive insulin release in dogs, causing life-threatening hypoglycaemia. Liver failure can follow even in dogs that recover from the initial episode. As little as 100mg/kg can cause hypoglycaemia; higher doses cause acute liver failure. Always check peanut butter and sugar-free products for xylitol.
Onset
30 minutes to 1 hour for hypoglycaemia; liver failure 24-72 hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - weakness
- - stumbling
- - collapse
- - seizures
- - hypoglycaemia
- - liver failure
What to do now
Emergency situation. Rush to an emergency vet immediately - do not wait. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) en route. Time is critical.
Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.
Xylitol and cats
Cats appear to be less sensitive to xylitol than dogs, possibly because they lack the same insulin response. Current evidence does not show the same acute hypoglycaemia risk in cats, but caution is warranted as research is limited.
Onset
Unknown
Symptoms
- - possible vomiting
- - lethargy
What to do now
Contact your vet for guidance. Monitor closely for any signs of weakness or vomiting.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - Pet Poison Helpline
- - JAVMA 2006 - Xylitol-containing products and their potential for toxicosis in dogs
Last reviewed: April 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.