Nutritional gummies are a hit with consumers of all ages. Can I borrow some gummy vitamins from your house? What about gummy vitamins, has your dog ever tried one? If that’s the case, you’ve stumbled upon the right page.
We have compiled data on whether or not gummy vitamins are harmful to canines. Okay, so let’s begin!
What are Gummy Vitamins?
Gummy vitamins, like the candy they resemble, are a type of chewable vitamin. They have a slightly gelatinous texture and a rainbow of flavors, shapes, and hues. Among both children and adults, gummy vitamins are a staple in many households.
They are also helpful for those who have difficulty taking pills orally. You’re probably aware that certain vitamins come in pill sizes that would make a horse gag. In that case, of course a gummy would be the best choice!
Calling a pet poison hotline or your vet is a must.
Gummy vitamins are typically made with ingredients like gelatin, corn starch, water, sugar, and food coloring. Raspberry, lemon, orange, and cherry are just some of the flavors that can be used. However, it’s important to know that many gummy vitamin brands are now sweetened with xylitol instead of sugar.
Gummy Vitamins & Dogs
Gummy vitamins that are sweetened with sugar typically cause no issues. Some vitamins, however, have been shown to be toxic in high doses.
Common vitamins and minerals that people take too much of include D, A, and Iron. Call the vet if your dog has consumed an entire bottle of gummy vitamins.
However, if the gummy vitamins contained xylitol, your dog could develop xylitol toxicity, which is a life-threatening condition.
How many different products are in their range?
There is a dizzying array of options available in the gummy vitamin industry. Comparable to visiting Willy Wonka’s candy factory, shopping for these is a sweet adventure.
A quick search on the internet reveals an impressive variety of manufacturers, each with its own specialized line of goods. Everyone from young children to senior citizens will find something appropriate for their age group and stage of life.
What are the most dangerous vitamins for a dog?
Vitamins are important for canines for the same reasons they are important for humans. What’s good for us can be deadly to our fur babies. Vitamins D and A, as well as iron, are especially infamous for their negative effects. Your fur baby won’t make it if they eat any of these.
If you take sugar-free vitamins, you should know that they likely contain the even more dangerous sweetener xylitol. That’ll be discussed in greater detail later.
Overdosing on Vitamin D can cause your dog to have convulsions and tremors.
Dogs can go into shock and develop toxicity from iron poisoning.
You’ll notice a difference in your dog’s coat and skin over time if you give him vitamin A on a regular basis. Aside from his skin becoming dry and itchy, his hair will also lose its usual luster. Paralysis is another possibility.
Your dog will experience severe, immediate complications if given a large dose of vitamins. However, sometimes they consistently consume a small amount, just enough to cause long-term problems. In this light, keep an eye out for any symptoms of illness or other odd behavior in your dog.
How do human vitamins (in dosage) differ from dog vitamins?
It’s a totally different story when dogs are involved. Their breed determines their metabolism and other unique requirements, so their size and shape can vary widely.
Then there are the additional factors to consider, such as age, health, and stage of life. To sum up, there are too many variables in dog health for a universal vitamin or nutrient dosage to be prescribed.
This rule also applies if your dog or cat eats your supplements. In the case of a small dog like a Doberman Pincher, even a single gummy vitamin could prove fatal.
Because the poor dog is likely to experience serious side effects, you should get to the vet as soon as possible.
But if you have a huge Great Dane and he only got one gummy, he’s probably fine. Just make sure to keep an eye on him. The clock is ticking, though, if he ate the whole package. In less time than it takes you to say, “Don’t eat that!” he’ll require emergency veterinary care.
Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs
Naturally occurring xylitol sources include fruits like berries, plums, corn, oats, mushrooms, lettuce, and trees. Xylitol has been approved by the FDA for use in food. However, it’s a lethal toxin for dogs and needs to be treated immediately.
A rapid absorption of xylitol in dogs triggers an insulin surge. The resulting drop in blood sugar is potentially fatal.
Symptoms of Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs
These signs may appear if your dog has consumed xylitol:
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Coordination problems
- Depression/lethargy
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
You should get your dog to the vet right away if you notice any of these signs. The situation is critical and requires immediate medical attention.
When xylitol toxicity in dogs is treated quickly, the prognosis is excellent. Getting your dog to the vet as soon as possible is crucial. What you do could mean life or death for your dog.
What is the animal poison helpline, and how will they help you?
In the United States, the pet poison hotline is open all year round, 24 hours a day. Call them up at (855) 764-7661.
Please be aware that there is a $59 incident fee. They have qualified veterinarians available 24/7 to assist with poisoning emergencies involving any kind of pet.
As soon as they have more information, they can advise you on whether your pet needs to be taken to the vet or if it can be treated at home. If your furry kid can be healed with just TLC at home, the vet will walk you through the steps.
If you end up needing veterinary care, they’ll collaborate with your vet to figure out what’s best for your pet. They will check in either way to see how things are progressing.
What are the side effects of eating too many vitamins?
Your dog’s reaction to ingesting human vitamins depends on several factors, including the dog’s size, the amount he ingested, and the vitamins’ specific composition.
An overdose of vitamin D could cause your dog to vomit blood or other bodily fluids. You’ll also notice that despite being extremely thirsty, he has no interest in eating any of his food.
He’ll urinate more frequently as a result of this. In addition to general weakness, he may also experience constipation and bloody stools.
It’s important to take note if your dog suddenly appears listless and uninterested in playing. Poor fur baby may drool excessively, experience abdominal pain, tremors, and even seizures. This paints a gloomy picture.
Xylitol is a particularly unpleasant sweetener. Reading about xylitol should have given you an idea of why it’s so dangerous for dogs, but we haven’t gotten to the symptoms yet. Keep an eye out for irritability, lethargy, and sleepiness.
This is because of the dramatic drop in blood sugar. In addition, your poor fur baby may experience tremors, convulsions, bloody diarrhea, a racing heart, and low blood pressure.
Your dog may become increasingly uncoordinated, have seizures, and eventually pass out from low blood sugar.
Attention, this matters greatly to our society. Don’t wait for your dog to show symptoms if you think he ate your vitamins. Get him to the nearest vet ASAP. Also, if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to contact the veterinarian. It could literally be a matter of life and death.
How can I stop my dog from eating gummy vitamins?
The obvious and simple solution is to store your vitamins somewhere your dog can’t get into. Avoid taking any risks. Don’t leave your dog in a room where he or she has access to the countertop.
When out and about, keep your furry friend from getting into your purse or coat pocket and eating your vitamins thinking they are a tasty treat. It’s not worth the risk, given how bad it could get.
Closing Thoughts
Dogs are at serious risk from vitamin poisoning. Never, ever give your dog any of your human vitamins; doing so could be fatal.
As soon as you realize your dog may have gotten into your vitamin gummies, take him to the vet or call the 24-hour pet poison helpline at (855) 764-7661. Instead of taking any chances, it’s better to err on the side of caution (albeit paranoia) in this situation.