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... and Links to other Animal and Avian Websites! Foods that are Potentially Poisonous to Pets Amy B. Worell, DVM, ABVP-Avian This short article covers some of the more common foods that pets may ingest resulting in clinical signs of toxicity. If you think your pet may have ingested one of these food items, it is strongly recommended that you take your pet to your local veterinarian and/or call the ASPCA Poison Control Center ( be aware that there is a fee for this great service) at 1-888-426-4435. Pets are curious creatures and will often ingest food items that they find on the floor, sitting on the table, or which are given to them. Familiarize yourself with this list, as knowledge is a powerful tool towards prevention of accidents and poisonings. It should be noted that affected species refers to the commonly affected species that seek veterinary care for ingestion of these substances. AVOCADO: Toxic factor: Persin, which can be found in the leaves, bark, fruit, and seeds of some avocado varieties. Affected species include: Dogs, birds and rodents. Small birds such as canaries and budgies are considered to be more susceptible. Clinical signs in dogs: Vomiting and diarrhea. Clinical signs in birds and rodents: Respiratory distress, generalized congestion, hydropericardium (fluid in the pericardial sac that surrounds the heart), and death. Onset of clinical signs: Usually occurs after 12 hours of ingestion with death occurring within one to two days following exposure. Potential treatment: Activated charcoal, adding bulk to the diet, oxygen, and diuretics, may all be indicated. CHOCOLATE: Toxic factor: Theobromine and caffeine, which are both classified as methylxanthines. Affected species: Pets in general; dogs and pet birds are often affected. Clinical signs: Vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm and rate, tremors, seizures, and death. Potential treatment: Induction of vomiting, use of activated charcoal, cardiovascular monitoring, and supportive care including fluid support. GRAPES AND RAISINS: Toxic factor: Unknown. Affected species: Dogs. Clinical signs: Vomiting, and lethargy, due to kidney failure. Potential treatments: Supportive care with intravenous fluid support. MACADAMIA NUTS: Toxic factor: Unknown. Affected species: Dogs. Clinical signs: Weakness, depression, vomiting, ataxia, tremors, and hyperthermia. Clinical signs may vary if the nut is encased in chocolate. Onset of clinical signs: Mostly commonly develop 12 hours after ingestion, and last 12 to 48 hours. Potential treatments: Induction of vomiting, activated charcoal, and supportive care. ONIONS: Toxic factor: N-propyl disulfide, which is thought to cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, resulting in hemolysis, or red blood cell destruction. Affected species: Dogs and especially cats. (Note: feeding commercial baby food containing onion powder has caused toxicity in cats). Clinical signs: Weakness, pale mucous membranes, lethargy, vomiting. Potential treatments: Blood transfusions, supportive care. RISING BREAD DOUGH: Toxic factor: None identified, rather related to changes in the pet's body. The pet's body heat will cause the dough to rise in the stomach. Alcohol is produced during the rising process and the dough may expand to several times its original size. Large amounts of gas may be produced and accumulate in the pet's digestive system. The stomach or intestines may rupture. Affected species: Dogs. Clinical signs: Severe abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, lack of coordination, and lethargy. Potential treatments: Supportive care, surgery if indicated. XYLITOL: Toxic factor: Promotes insulin release resulting in hypoglycemia. Liver toxicity and failure can also occur. This product is a sugar alternative which is used in sugar free candies, gum and other food items. Affected species: Dogs are the only known affected species. Clinical signs: Vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, lethargy. Onset of clinical signs: 30 minutes to 12 hours after ingestion. Potential treatments: Intravenous fluids, dextrose, supportive care. Read the previous Interesting Case > APMC's Links to other Animal and Avian Websites The Morris Animal Foundation California CageWorks House Rabbit Society Home Page and Rabbit Care Guide

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