Is xylitol toxic to cats?
Also called: birch sugar, sugar-free gum, sugar free gum, sweetener, E967
Caution
Harmful to some pets. Cats seem much less sensitive, but keep it away.
Keep it away from your cat. Xylitol can cause dangerously low blood sugar and liver damage in pets. Pet Poison Helpline says cats are unlikely to be poisoned by it.
When it's a problem
- In pets it can cause low blood sugar and liver damage, depending on how much is eaten. Early signs are vomiting, lethargy and poor coordination.
Where this comes from
Pet Poison Helpline
With cats, however, it is unlikely to see toxicity.
Checked 9 October 2026
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and potentially liver damage depending on the amount ingested.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and potentially liver damage depending on the amount ingested.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Pet Poison Helpline
With cats, however, it is unlikely to see toxicity.
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and potentially liver damage depending on the amount ingested.
Initial signs of toxicosis include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination, which can progress to seizures.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and potentially liver damage depending on the amount ingested.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Pet Poison Helpline
With cats, however, it is unlikely to see toxicity.
there is currently no published data to suggest that cats are sensitive to Xylitol
Checked 9 October 2026