Xylitol is a sugar substitute used as the main sweetener in many sugar-free gums. In our canine friends, xylitol can be very toxic! Low blood sugar and liver damage are the life-threatening consequences that may occur along with gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Peaches did experience vomiting right after ingestion of the gum BUT xylitol can be absorbed through the mucosa within the oral cavity within minutes!
Peaches was hospitalized for the night and given intravenous fluids and dextrose (sugar). Her blood sugar and liver levels were monitored closely. Sometimes this type of toxicity can cause only low blood sugar, only liver disease, or both. Peaches fortunately did not have low blood sugar but her one liver enzyme, “ALT”, was high. Her liver value initially was at 418 (normal range approximately 30-100 U/L). She was given two liver supportive medications in addition to supportive care and recommended to continue these supplements for 2 weeks after hospitalization.
Later that night, Peaches ALT value decreased to 248! She was continued on supportive care overnight. In the morning, her ALT value was back to normal!
Throughout the time Peaches was in the hospital, she appeared stable. Even though she was not showing any clinical signs other than vomiting once at home, it was still very important for her to have come in for care! Without hospitalization, Peaches may have been very sick! This is a good reminder to have fun this Halloween season but to remember to check and put away xylitol containing goodies because our furry friends like to get into everything they should not eat!