Red Bull has become a very popular beverage in recent years. Some people drink it to have more energy to get through the day. Others may drink Red Bull to stay awake when driving, and more. But what happens if a dog drinks Red Bull? Can Red Bull make a dog sick?
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Has your dog drunk Red Bull? Are you worried the Red Bull will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog drinks something like this.
We’ve put together some information about Red Bull and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Red Bull?
Red Bull is an energy drink produced by Red Bull GmbH, a company in Austria. It’s one of the best-selling energy drinks in the world! The drink comes in different varieties; however, some of the ingredients are about the same (though in differing amounts).
Red Bull may contain the following:
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- Caffeine
- Taurine
- B vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6, B12)
- Sugar
- Carbonated water
- Baking soda
- Magnesium carbonate
Caffeine is the main ingredient that can help increase a person’s energy, concentration, cognitive performance, and more. However, while the drink has been touted as a great way to improve attention and increase strength, overconsumption of the product can lead to psychiatric issues and cardiac problems.
While Red Bull in moderation may be safe for humans, what about dogs? Can Red Bull make a dog sick?
Red Bull & Dogs
Unfortunately, Red Bull is extremely toxic to dogs. The main culprit in the drink’s ingredients is the high amount of caffeine. Dogs are not able to metabolize caffeine, which means the substance stays in their system much longer. As a result, caffeine affects the dog’s body after just one or two licks.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Caffeine Toxicity in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has drunk Red Bull:
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Elevated heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Tremors
- Elevated body temperature
- Seizures
- Collapse
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, call the vet immediately. This is a medical emergency.
The good news is that most dogs, who receive prompt medical care, will make a full recovery. However, the key is getting your dog to the vet ASAP. Dogs that are left with no medical treatment could die from ingesting too much Red Bull.
As always, prevention is always the best medicine! So if your fur baby shows an interest in what you eat and drink, make sure to keep food and medications out of his reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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