The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday issued an update to consumers warning parents of their pets about the dangers of xylitol, a sugar substitute found in foods for human consumption, such as nut butter, and products such as chewing gum and mints. (Photo: Aiden-Franklin, Getty Images)

The Food and Drug Administration released a consumer update on Tuesday, warning pet parents about the dangers of xylitol, a substitute for sugar in human foods and some health products.

Although xylitol is not dangerous to humans, it can be fatal for dogs. It is used in foods such as nut butter and sugar-free desserts, including "lean" ice cream. Vitamins chew, mouthwash and toothpaste may also contain sweetener.

The warning came with a video that warned dog owners to check the etiquette of any human food or treats that they plan to give to their dog to make sure that 39, it does not include xylitol.

The FDA encourages pet owners to keep objects out of the reach of your dog. For example, if you keep chewing gum in your purse, make sure your bag is placed where your dog can not access it. If you keep toothpaste on the counter of your bathroom, make sure your dog can not reach it.

"The consumer update and today's video are designed to educate dog owners about xylitol, which can be dangerous and lethal, and that dogs who eat it need immediate veterinary care," he said. said to USA TODAY, Lindsay Haake, spokesperson for the FDA.

Foods that may contain xylitol include:

  • mint sweets
  • Sugarless gum
  • bakery products
  • cough syrup
  • chewable vitamins for children and adults
  • mouthwash
  • toothpaste
  • peanut butters and walnuts
  • over-the-counter medications
  • food supplements
  • desserts without sugar, including "lean" ice cream

The list of foods containing xylitol is not exhaustive. So be sure to check the label of any human food or treats you give your dog. If you think that your dog has eaten xylitol, take it immediately to the veterinarian or veterinary hospital. Signs of xylitol poisoning include:

  • vomiting
  • seizures
  • coma
  • weakness
  • difficulty walking or standing
  • depression or lethargy
  • tremors

According to the FDA, symptoms of xylitol poisoning can occur within 15 to 30 minutes and deaths have occurred in just an hour.

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