Xylitol Metabolism In Dogs

Introduction

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in many plants, and is a common additive in many household products. It is considered safe for human consumption, and is mostly used chewing gum and oral hygiene products to help prevent tooth decay and dry mouth. It is also used as a sugar-free sweetener, mostly in gums and candies (Xylitol: Uses…). Although xylitol is safe for human consumption, it is highly toxic to dogs. Due to its prevalence in human products and attractive taste, xylitol toxicosis is common in pet dogs. The first two reported incidences of xylitol toxicosis were in 2002, and by 2008 the number of cases had increased to 2,500 cases annually (Piscitelli, et al. 2010).

Toxicology

Xylitol metabolism in dogs is far faster than in humans, and the effect that it has on their blood insulin levels is far more drastic. In some species, like humans, xylitol has little effect on insulin levels compared to glucose. However, in other species such as dogs, xylitol can increase insulin levels 2.5 to 7 times higher than an equivalent amount of glucose (Piscitelli, et al. 2010). This rapid change in insulin levels leads to hypoglycemia at doses greater than …show more content…
Most dogs will experience hypoglycemia around 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion, although this can be delayed up to 48 hours after ingestion (Piscitelli, et al. 2010). The clinical signs of hypoglycemia include weakness, loss of coordination, seizures, and lack of energy (Consumer Updates-…). Ingesting xylitol can also result in hyperglycemia, caused by increases in hormones such as glucagon, cortisol, and epinephrine in response to rapid decreases in blood glucose levels (Piscitelli, et al. 2010). Liver failure can occur as a result of hypokalemia and hypophosphatemia, caused by changes in ion concentrations associated with increased insulin levels (Piscitelli, et al.

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