The Hidden Danger of Grapes and Raisins for Pets
Many pet owners are aware that dogs and cats should never eat grapes, as ingestion can easily lead to acute kidney failure. However, fewer realize that raisins, which are made from grapes, are equally forbidden. In fact, the harm raisins cause to our furry companions can be even more severe than that caused by fresh grapes.
It is important to keep both grapes and raisins out of reach of pets to ensure their safety and well-being. If you suspect your dog or cat has consumed grapes or raisins, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Why Raisins Are More Dangerous to Dogs Than Grapes
Raisins are made by dehydrating grapes, which effectively concentrates the nutritional essence of the whole grape. Because of this concentration, raisins are considered to be more dangerous to dogs than grapes themselves.
Additionally, raisins are often added to foods such as cookies and breads. This increases the risk of accidental ingestion, as dog owners may not realize these foods contain raisins, making them easier to be mistakenly consumed by dogs compared to whole grapes.
Grapes and Raisins Toxicity in Dogs and Cats
Although there is currently no definitive conclusion on the lethal dose of raisins for dogs and cats, it is generally understood that consuming approximately 10 to 30 grams of raisins per kilogram of a pet's body weight can cause poisoning symptoms.
For example, a dog weighing 5 kilograms that ingests about 50 to 150 grams (roughly more than 80 raisins) may have a significantly increased risk of poisoning.
However, this does not mean that eating just one small raisin won't have any effect. Raisins remain a dangerous food, and some dogs and cats can become poisoned even from ingesting a small amount.
Grapes and Raisins Toxicity in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Generally speaking, dogs may show signs of poisoning within 2 to 5 hours after consuming grapes or raisins. These symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive thirst.
In more severe cases, dogs may experience loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, decreased or no urine output, or even loss of consciousness. This condition can escalate into acute kidney failure, which can be fatal.
Therefore, if you find that your dog has accidentally eaten grapes or raisins, even in very small amounts, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care for examination and treatment.
