Xylitol (Sweetener) Poisoning
in Dogs
Substance: Xylitol (also called birch sugar or E967). Symptoms appear within 10-60 minutes. Treatment costs £500–£2,500.
Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet now.
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to xylitol (also called birch sugar or e967), contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 immediately. The PoisonLine is available 24/7 and run by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS).
What to Look For
Symptoms of xylitol (sweetener) poisoning typically appear within 10-60 minutes of exposure. You may not see all of these — even one or two should prompt an immediate call to your vet.
What to Do Right Now
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to xylitol (also called birch sugar or e967), follow these steps.
This is an extreme emergency — call your vet immediately
Xylitol acts very fast; minutes matter
Note the product name and how much was consumed
Do NOT try to make your dog sick unless told to by a vet
If your dog is already wobbly or fitting, rub honey or sugar solution on the gums on the way to the vet
What the Vet Will Do
Treatment depends on how much was ingested and how quickly you seek help. Here is what to expect.
How Much It Costs
Estimated UK vet costs for treating xylitol (sweetener) poisoning in dogs. Total treatment typically costs £500–£2,500.
| Treatment Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Emergency consultation | £80-£250 |
| IV dextrose & fluids | £150-£400 |
| Blood glucose monitoring | £100-£300 |
| Liver function tests | £100-£250 |
| Hospitalisation (1-3 nights) | £200-£1,500 |
| Total treatment range | £500–£2,500 |
Prices are estimates based on UK veterinary averages. Out-of-hours emergencies typically cost 1.5–3x more than standard hours. Individual cases vary.
Recovery Outlook
If caught before severe hypoglycaemia or liver damage, most dogs recover fully within 12-24 hours. Liver failure (which can develop 24-48 hours after ingestion) carries a much poorer prognosis. Rapid veterinary treatment is critical.
How to Prevent This
The best treatment is prevention. Keep your pet safe with these steps.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Poisoning?
Yes — most pet insurance policies cover accidental poisoning as an emergency, including out-of-hours care, hospitalisation, and specialist referral.
With xylitol (sweetener) poisoning treatment costing £500–£2,500, insurance can prevent a medical emergency becoming a financial one too. Check your policy covers emergency treatment with no sub-limit on poisoning.
Compare pet insuranceOther Poisoning Emergencies
Other common toxic substances that affect dogs.
Grape & Raisin Poisoning
CriticalSlug Pellet (Metaldehyde) Poisoning
CriticalAntifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Poisoning
CriticalChocolate Poisoning
SevereFind a Vet Near You
Compare vet practices in your area. Check opening hours, emergency availability, and prices before you need them.