Is Artificial Sweetener Harmful to Pets?

Owning a pet can be intimidating at times. Many things that are, for the most part, innocuous to human beings can be seriously harmful to our furry pals. The artificial sweetener xylitol is just one such example. The sugar replacement can even bring fatal consequences to some pets.

  1. Common Artificial Sweeteners

    • Apart from xylitol, both aspartame and sucralose are common sweetening agents. Unlike xylitol, neither are confirmed as poisonous to pets, indicates the ASPCA. Despite that, it's still advisable to keep all pets away from aspartame, sucralose and artificial sweeteners in general. If your four-legged pal gets his paws on foods with these sweeteners and consumes just a little too much, he may experience digestive distress such as diarrhea and stomachache. Spare your cutie the unnecessary discomfort and keep all artificial sweeteners out of his reach.

    Xylitol

    • Xylitol is a serious hazard to pets, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Xylitol is a common sugarless component in many candies, chewing gum, breath mints and puddings. It also is frequently an ingredient for mouthwashes, toothpaste and even vitamins. Xylitol can be a severe threat to dogs at any amount, no matter how tiny. Not only can it trigger liver failure and decreased levels of glucose, it can also be fatal.

    Symptoms

    • If for any reason you think your pet may have consumed xylitol, even if just a tiny hint of it, get him to the veterinarian immediately -- even if you don't see any obvious signs of a problem. Some common signs of xylitol poisoning in pets include throwing up, exhaustion, fainting, shivering, the passing of black fecal matter and convulsions. Some pets may fall into comas due to xylitol consumption. As mentioned previously, pets can die from it, so don't take the matter lightly. Prompt veterinary attention can mean the difference between life and death for your precious pet.

    Other Dangers for Pets

    • Do not allow your pet to eat anything unless you're totally sure of its safety, whether it contains artificial sweetening products or not. Many basic, "everyday" food items are potentially extremely dangerous to our fluffy friends, including grapes, avocados, walnuts, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic and scallions, to name a handful. Remember, too, that something that is safe for a cat may not be safe for a dog, and vice versa.