Dogs eating grapes can be fatal.
The toxic compound responsible for the damage is called tartaric acid, which is found in the skin, seeds, and leaves of grapes.
Even small amounts of grapes can cause severe symptoms in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Grapes are so toxic that a single serving can be enough to cause kidney failure in some dogs, and the symptoms can appear within 24 hours.
If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes, it's essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.
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What to Do If Your Dog Eats Grapes
If your dog has eaten grapes, call their veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center as soon as possible.
Don't wait to call - research shows that the sooner treatment for grape poisoning begins, the better the outcome.
Getting your pup checked by a vet is better than taking risks with toxic substances.
Getting the poisoning diagnosed and treated timely can save your dog from kidney failure.
If you suspect your dog has gotten into the fruit bowl and swiped a few grapes, don't wait - call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center as soon as possible.
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Causes and Effects of Grape Toxicity
The exact reason why some dogs develop kidney failure after eating grapes is still unknown, but a mycotoxin is suspected to be involved. However, no mycotoxin has been found in grapes or raisins ingested by affected dogs.
The dose-response relationship has not been determined, but one study estimated that 3 g/kg or greater of grapes or raisins is toxic to dogs. This means that even a small amount can be poisonous to your furry friend.
A mycotoxin is suspected to be involved, but none has been found in grapes or raisins ingested by affected dogs. The exact toxin has yet to be identified, but it appears that dogs are the most at risk compared to other species such as cats.
The most common pathological finding is proximal renal tubular necrosis. In some cases, an accumulation of an unidentified golden-brown pigment was found within renal epithelial cells.
Symptoms of grape toxicity have been reported with ingestion of 0.7 oz/kg of grapes and 0.11 oz/kg of raisins. This means that even a small amount can be toxic to your dog.
The toxic dose of grapes for a 10kg dog would be 7 ounces or 35 grapes. However, the toxic dose definition is presently shifting, with lower doses now considered to be harmful.
Many species can consume significant amounts of grapes or raisins without issue, but this is not the case for dogs. Nobody knows the patient's risk factors (besides ingestion).
The clinical symptoms of grape or raisin ingestion are related to kidney failure as this is how the toxin works. Within several hours of ingestion, clinical symptoms usually begin.
Vomiting has been reported in all cases, and the vomitus will usually contain eaten fruit.
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Symptoms and Diagnosis of Grape Toxicity
Symptoms of grape toxicity in dogs can start within a few hours of ingestion and may include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can be severe and may lead to acute kidney failure.
Vomiting and diarrhea are often the first signs of grape or raisin toxicity, and pieces of grapes or raisins may be present in the vomitus or stool.
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The initial signs of grape or raisin toxicity typically appear within several hours of eating grapes or raisins, which may include loss of appetite and weakness. More grave signs of kidney failure are apparent 24 to 48 hours following consuming the fruit.
Common symptoms of grape poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, loss of appetite, being lethargic, and an ammonia-like smell in breathing. Dehydration is also a sign, with a dry nose or mouth.
A more severe symptom of kidney failure in dogs is excessive urination, which leads to decreased urine production. Eventually, the kidneys' functions stop, and the dog may not produce urine as the poisoning progresses.
Here are the symptoms of grape toxicity in dogs:
- Vomiting or diarrhea: Usually happens within 2-12 hours.
- Abdominal pain: Abdomen will be tender to the touch. It can happen in 12-24 hours.
- Loss of appetite: 24-48 hours after ingestion.
- Weakness, lethargy: Can happen within 24-48 hours of ingestion.
- Dehydration: Signs are panting, a dry nose and mouth, and pale gums.
- Increase in thirst: An increase or decrease of urination, or no urine production at all within 24-72 hours. This could be a sign of acute kidney failure.
The exact toxin in grapes and raisins has yet to be identified, but it appears to be nephrotoxic, which can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
Treatment and Prognosis of Grape Toxicity
If your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, time is of the essence. Inducing vomiting within the first two hours can be a lifesaver, and your vet may use an emetic like apomorphine to make this happen.
Activated charcoal is often administered to bind any remaining toxins in the gastrointestinal tract and prevent absorption. This can be especially effective if your dog hasn't vomited yet.
If your dog is already showing symptoms of kidney failure, hospitalization with intravenous fluids is crucial to support the kidneys and prevent further damage. Fluid therapy can help flush out toxins and restore hydration.
In severe cases, your vet may need to perform dialysis to support the kidneys, and medication may be prescribed to control blood pressure, nausea, and blood flow to the kidneys. Your vet will closely monitor your dog's BUN, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium levels to ensure the treatment is effective.
Here are some common symptoms of grape toxicity in dogs:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased thirst
- Loss of appetite
- Being lethargic
- Ammonia-like smell in breathing
- Dehydration (dry nose or mouth)
The prognosis for dogs with grape toxicity varies based on several factors, including the severity of symptoms and the promptness of treatment. For asymptomatic or mild cases, the prognosis is generally good, but for more severe cases, the outlook is more guarded.
Don't Risk Your Health
Dogs are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings through their mouths and noses.
Accidents can and will happen, no matter how careful you are.
As a responsible pet parent, it's essential to be aware of the hidden dangers in your kitchen and snack bowls.
Grapes are one of those dangers that can have serious consequences for your dog's health.
Pumpkin pet insurance plans can give you peace of mind, knowing you can get your pet the best care when unexpected accidents and illnesses occur.
Alternatives and Products
If you're looking for safe alternatives to grapes for your furry friend, there are plenty of options available. Fruits should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Some dog-safe fruits to serve as alternatives to grapes include apples, bananas, and blueberries. These fruits can be a tasty and healthy addition to your dog's diet.
Remember to start with a small amount and see how your dog reacts, as they may have different sensitivities to new foods.
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Safe Alternatives
If you're looking for safe alternatives to grapes for your furry friend, you're in luck! There are plenty of other safe and healthy fruits that your dog can enjoy.
Fruits should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and it’s always a good idea to start with a small amount and see how your dog reacts.
Some of our favorite dog-safe fruits to serve as alternatives to grapes include berries, such as blueberries and strawberries, which are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of fiber.
Remember to always check with your vet before introducing new foods to your dog's diet, especially if they have any food allergies or sensitivities.
Dogs can also enjoy sliced apples, which are a crunchy and sweet snack that's perfect for a picky eater.
Products to Avoid
When you're looking for alternatives to grapes for your furry friend, it's essential to know what to avoid. Grape products can be toxic to dogs, so it's best to steer clear of them.
Grape juice is one of the many grape products that are off-limits to dogs. Raisins, another common grape product, are also toxic to dogs.
Grape jelly is a sweet treat for humans, but it's not safe for dogs to consume. Currants, which are often used in baked goods, are also a no-go for dogs.
Here are some grape products to avoid:
- Grape juice
- Grape jelly
- Raisins
- Currants
Frequently Asked Questions
How many grapes can a 50 pound dog eat?
For a 50-pound dog, it's best to assume even one grape is toxic and seek veterinary help immediately. No safe amount of grapes has been established for canine consumption.
How long does it take for a dog to show signs of poisoning?
Signs of poisoning in dogs typically appear 30 minutes to 4 hours after ingestion, starting with anxiety and elevated body temperature. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, seek veterinary attention immediately.
What if my dog eats a small amount of grape jelly?
If your dog ingests a small amount of grape jelly, contact your vet immediately for advice on the best course of action. They will assess your dog and provide guidance on whether treatment is needed.
How much grape juice is toxic to dogs?
Grape juice toxicity in dogs is unpredictable and dose-independent, meaning that even small amounts can be hazardous. Avoid giving your dog grape juice altogether, as its toxicity is not well understood.
Sources
- Acute kidney injury in dogs following ingestion of cream of tartar and tamarinds and the connection to tartaric acid as the proposed toxic principle in grapes and raisins (doi.org)
- "What causes grape toxicity in dogs? Playdough might have led to a breakthrough" (aaha.org)
- 15945377 (nih.gov)
- "Grape and Raisin Toxicity in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals" (vcahospitals.com)
- "Food Hazards: Raisins/grapes" (merckmanuals.com)
- the article by VCA Animal Hospitals (vcahospitals.com)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org)
- Grape And Raisin Toxicity In Dogs (kingsdale.com)
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