Many sugar-free products, such as chewing gum and breath mints, contain xylitol, which is safe for humans but toxic to dogs. Xylitol may also be labeled as “birch sugar” or “birch sap,” so it’s important for pet owners to recognize these terms when evaluating product safety.
“This can be confusing for pet owners,” explained Dr. Camille Torres-Henderson, a veterinary nutritionist at Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. “If you only know to look for ‘xylitol’ and not ‘birch sugar,’ you might miss it. Even a small amount can make a dog very ill.”
While xylitol is particularly harmful to dogs, it can also affect cats and ferrets. Therefore, it’s best to keep any products containing xylitol out of reach of all pets. If your pet is known to access places where you store these items—like sugarless gum in a backpack or purse—ensure they are securely stored.
“Dogs are more attracted to xylitol because they have more sweet receptors,” Torres-Henderson noted. “Cats may not taste sweetness as well, but they are still at risk.”
Be Aware of Sugar-Free Products
Xylitol is commonly used as a sugar substitute in:
• Chewing gum
• Candy
• Ice cream
• Chewable vitamins
• Liquid medications (like gabapentin)
• Mouthwash
• Sugar-free desserts
• Breath mints
• Peanut butter
Always be cautious with items labeled “sugar-free” or “diabetic-friendly.” Xylitol can also be found in liquid medications that might be prescribed for children. While pharmacists are becoming more aware of its toxicity to dogs, parents should be vigilant if they also have pets.
What to Do If Your Pet Consumes Xylitol
Signs of xylitol toxicity include vomiting, weakness, collapse, seizures, or uncoordinated movements. When ingested, xylitol is rapidly absorbed, leading to a quick release of insulin and dangerously low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), which can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical attention. Liver damage may also occur, but symptoms can take days to manifest.
If you suspect xylitol toxicity or know your pet has consumed a product containing it, seek immediate veterinary care. If unsure whether a product has xylitol or birch sugar, keep the packaging with the ingredient list for your vet.
“Most cases we see involve owners who rushed in after seeing their dog eat chewing gum,” said Dr. Amanda Cavanagh, an emergency veterinarian at CSU. “If the dog isn’t showing symptoms, we can induce vomiting and monitor them for low blood sugar or liver failure.”
While many pet owners are aware of xylitol’s dangers, terms like “birch sugar” and “birch sap” are less commonly recognized. To prevent xylitol ingestion, carefully check ingredient labels, store products safely out of reach, and educate everyone in your household about these risks.
Source:
Birch sugar is the same thing as xylitol and its toxic to dogs. (2021, October 8). James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Colorado State University. https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/animal-health/birch-sugar-is-the-same-thing-as-xylitol-and-its-toxic-to-dogs/
