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Vitamin gummies are extremely popular with adults and kids alike. Do you have gummy vitamins at home? Has your dog eaten a gummy vitamin? If so, then you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve put together some information about gummy vitamins and whether or not they can make your dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Gummy Vitamins?
Gummy vitamins are chewable vitamins that are similar to gummy candies. They’re a little bit gelatinous and come in various flavors, shapes, and colors. Gummies are one of the most popular vitamins for kids and adults. They’re also great for anyone who has trouble swallowing pills. You know how some vitamins are the size of horse pills! Well, who wouldn’t opt for a gummy in that case!
Most gummy vitamins are made with gelatin, corn starch, water, sugar, and added colorings. Flavors can include raspberry, lemon, orange, and cherry. One note about the ingredients—many gummies are made with sugar; however, many manufacturers are starting to use xylitol to sweeten gummy vitamins.
Can gummy vitamins make your dog sick?
Gummy Vitamins & Dogs
In most cases, gummy vitamins made with sugar will not cause a problem. However, it is possible to overdose on some vitamins. Vitamin D, Vitamin A and Iron are the most common ones to overdose on. If your dog has eaten a whole bottle of gummy vitamins, then it’s a good idea to call the vet.
On the other hand, if the gummy vitamins contained xylitol, this could lead to xylitol toxicity in your dog, which is a medical emergency.
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Ask a Vet Live NowXylitol Toxicity in Dogs
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that occurs naturally in berries, plums, corn, oats, mushrooms, lettuce, trees, and other fruits. The FDA has ruled xylitol is safe for human consumption. But it is a deadly toxin for dogs, which requires prompt medical treatment.
In dogs, xylitol is absorbed quickly, which leads to a release of insulin from the pancreas. This leads to a decrease in blood sugar levels, which can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten xylitol:
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Lack of coordination
- Depression/lethargy
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is a life-threatening medical emergency.
The prognosis is very good for dogs who receive prompt treatment for xylitol toxicity. The key is getting your dog to the vet as soon as possible to begin treatment. Doing so could save your dog’s life.
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Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS
This article has been reviewed and approved by an independent Veterinarian: Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a post graduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.
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