Xylitol, a sugar substitute, is in sugarless gum, candies and other sweet treats. It's absorbed rapidly into their bloodstream causing a large release of insulin and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This can lead to liver failure and even death.
Dr. Bianchi said, “Xylitol is really new, but over the past year we have seen several cases of toxicity that have required days of hospitalization.”
Candy wrappers, if chewed, can cause choking or intestinal blockage.
To submit a pet story and photo, email your story and photo to hwarlick@opubco.com or mail it to Heather Warlick, The Oklahoman, P.O. Box 25125, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Include your name, address and daytime phone number. Photos cannot be returned.
Next Story
