Dog Ate Sugar-Free Gum? Xylitol Poisoning (Australia)
Emergency
If your pet has eaten this, contact your local vet now. After hours, call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
What it means for dogs and cats
πΆ Dogs
Dangerous β do not feed
Xylitol can trigger insulin release in dogs, causing dangerously low blood sugar, and can also cause liver failure and clotting problems. Check labels on sugar-free products and contact your vet immediately after suspected exposure.
π± Cats
Caution β small amounts
Do not offer xylitol products to cats. Xylitol can cause low blood sugar and liver damage in dogs; Cornell lists products containing it among foods cats should avoid, so contact your vet after suspected exposure.
Where Australian pets run into it
Check ingredient labels on sugar-free gum, some peanut butters and selected snack products sold in Australian supermarkets. Keep these products and discarded wrappers secured.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Wobbliness
- Collapse
- Seizures
What to do
Contact your local vet immediately and take the product packaging or ingredient list. Call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 for Australian advice.
What to say when you call
My (dog/cat) weighs about __ kg. About __ hours ago they ate __ (how much). Symptoms so far: __.
Common questions
My dog ate sugar-free gum β what should I do?
Some sugar-free products contain xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs; call your vet immediately after suspected exposure.
Is xylitol dangerous to cats?
Do not offer it. Because feline evidence is limited, contact your vet for individual advice after exposure.
Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets β ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Animal Care Expert Newsletter, March 2025 β Animal Care Australia
- Small Animal Toxins β Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Common Cat Hazards β Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention β Animal Poisons Helpline
Content checked against these sources on 2026-10-10.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your local vet.