Can dogs and cats eat Xylitol (birch sugar)?
Xylitol is a sweetener in sugar-free gum, mints, some peanut butters, baked goods and toothpaste. In dogs it causes a rapid, severe drop in blood sugar and can cause liver failure.
Why
Xylitol (triggers massive insulin release in dogs; liver damage at higher doses)
Signs to watch for
- vomiting
- weakness, wobbliness
- collapse
- tremors
- seizures
- yellow gums or skin (later, liver damage)
Good to know
Dogs: very small amounts can be dangerous — a few pieces of gum can be enough for a small dog. Signs can start within 30–60 minutes. Cats seem much less affected, but there is little data, so keep it away from cats too. Check labels for 'xylitol', 'birch sugar' or E967.
If you think your pet has been poisoned
If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten or touched something poisonous, contact your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately, even if your pet seems fine – some poisons take hours or days to show signs, and early treatment works best. Do not try to make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to, as this can cause more harm. Take the packaging, label or a piece of the plant with you, and note what was eaten, roughly how much, and when.
Sources
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Xylitol Toxicosis in Dogs
- Pet Poison Helpline – Xylitol toxicosis in dogs
- ASPCA – People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Checked against these sources in October 2026.