Although considered a natural and harmless treat, grapes can actually be deadly to some dogs. Even a small amount of grapes can cause kidney failure that can be fatal to the animal, and this is true regardless of the form in which the fruit is ingested. Toxicity varies from dog to dog and it is sometimes difficult to determine the cause of symptoms if the animal has stolen a standing bunch of grapes. Cats are not immune to this toxicity, as ingestion of grapes can also cause health problems.
Grape toxicity varies from one animal to another
Even after scientific studies, the active ingredient responsible for the toxicity of grapes to dogs remains unknown to this day. This toxicity has only recently become common in our pets, since the 2020s. Regardless of whether the grape is seeded or seedless, dried or juiced, home grown or from a professional vineyard, the poison in the fruit can attack the digestive system and kidneys of the animal. All breeds of dogs are susceptible to this toxicity, and a dog that has tolerated the fruit on a first ingestion may suffer serious complications on a second or third ingestion.
Research has shown that the toxin is present in grapes and this is the only evidence found so far. However, some experts speculate that an element similar to aspirin is present in the fruit, causing a decrease in blood flow to the kidneys. However, these theories remain speculative as the toxic agent has not yet been conclusively identified. It is therefore impossible to know whether your dog will be able to tolerate this 'treat'. Although some dogs can tolerate small amounts of grapes, others can be poisoned by just a few grapes from a bunch. It is therefore advisable to avoid grapes in the dog's diet altogether and to classify them as toxic food for dogs.
What is the most dangerous form of grapes for dogs?
Grapes are toxic no matter how they are consumed, and even a small amount can be fatal to a dog weighing less than 10 kg. All varieties of grapes, as well as prepared foods containing the fruit, can cause poisoning. In short, grapes are a potential poison in all their forms for our four-legged friends, whether canine or feline.
- With or without seeds, and with or without the skin.
- Candied or dried.
- The grapes can be red or white.
- Commercially available or from one's own vineyard or that of one's neighbour.
- From organic or conventional agriculture.
Even after being cooked or prepared, grapes remain a potential source of poisoning for dogs. Cereals, breads, cakes or dishes that contain grapes do not reduce their toxicity to our canine companions.
Symptoms of grape poisoning can vary depending on the size, breed and age of the dog. However, in general, 10 to 50 grams of fresh grapes per kilogram of body weight can be fatal to the animal. For a dog weighing 10 kg, a single bunch of grapes can therefore be life-threatening. Sultanas are considered the most toxic, as a small handful of a few grams can cause severe food poisoning.
What are the signs that my dog has been poisoned by grapes?
Although a single grape may not cause any symptoms in your dog or puppy, it is best to avoid it to avoid any risk. If ingested and sensitive to the toxin in the fruit, gastrointestinal symptoms may occur within 6 to 24 hours:
- Nausea ;
- Vomissements ;
- Diarrhoea;
- Severe abdominal pain.
It is worth noting that if your dog vomits only a few hours after ingesting grapes, you may find undigested fruit in his vomit or stool.
Then, other more general symptoms may appear:
- Extreme fatigue ;
- Perte d’appétit ;
- Le chien a soif et boit énormément ;
- Ataxia, or poor coordination of movement, requires urgent consultation.
When your dog is intoxicated with grapes, he may suffer from intense thirst or polydipsia, which is often accompanied by a low urine output. This oliguria may progress to anuria, where the dog cannot urinate at all. Symptoms may also include hypothermia, dehydration and coma. Kidney function is often affected when the dog has difficulty urinating. Acute renal failure can occur in as little as 24 to 72 hours, which is a life-threatening emergency. The kidneys have a low capacity for regeneration, which means that the damage caused by poisoning can be irreversible. Only your veterinarian can determine the prognosis based on your dog's response to treatment, symptoms and physical condition.
What to do in case of grape poisoning in dogs?
It is recommended that you contact your vet immediately if you catch your dog ingesting a grape or if you have accidentally given him one. In case of poisoning by any toxin, the commonly used rule is the 3-T rule.
The 3 T's rule for dealing with grape poisoning or any other toxin:
- Time: act quickly to save your pet's life. Do not attempt to treat or cure your pet without consulting a professional veterinarian.
- Telephone: contact your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency service immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested grapes or any other toxin.
- Toxin: If known, inform the person you are speaking to of the substance or toxin ingested, as well as the amount and time of the incident.
The quicker we react and the more accurate the information provided to your vet, the quicker he can intervene to save your dog.
How is poisoning diagnosed by a vet?
As the causes of grape poisoning are still unknown, there is no specific test to diagnose it. Veterinarians rely on the symptoms your pet presents and the information you provide in response to their questions:
- Has your dog ever eaten grapes before?
- Have you witnessed your dog ingesting grapes?
- How much grapes has your dog been exposed to?
- Were they fresh grapes picked from the vine or raisins?
By providing accurate information, you will help the veterinarian decide what further tests are needed to suggest the most appropriate treatment for your dog's survival, including blood and urine tests.
How does the vet treat grape intoxication in your dog?
The choice of treatment for grape poisoning will depend on your pet's condition and symptoms. Management will vary depending on the time between the grape ingestion and your call and your pet's sensitivity to the toxin. The priority for the veterinarian will be to stabilise your pet's condition. If the grape ingestion is recent and you visit the vet within 6 hours of ingestion, the vet may induce vomiting to prevent absorption of the toxin. Activated charcoal will be administered to absorb the toxins in the stomach and intestines. If necessary, your vet will also pump the stomach.
The vet may decide to infuse your pet for 24 to 48 hours to maintain kidney function. In addition to this, he or she may also prescribe medication to control nausea and vomiting and maintain blood flow to your dog's kidneys. If your pet stops producing urine, dialysis may be considered, provided the kidneys are not too badly damaged.
Animals suffering from grape poisoning are usually hospitalised for 2-7 days in a veterinary clinic. During this time, professionals carefully monitor your pet's kidney function, assess the response to treatment and make modifications if necessary to minimise the damage caused by the toxin.
If your pet improves and is allowed to go home, blood tests will be scheduled to check that all is well and that the kidney is functioning properly.
Is eating grapes life threatening for my dog?
Your dog's prognosis depends on several factors, including his sensitivity to the toxin and your responsiveness. If you act quickly and catch him eating grapes, the prognosis is quite positive. Other factors such as the number of grapes or sultanas eaten in relation to his weight and the time taken to decontaminate also play an important role in the prognosis.
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I'm making a donation now!If your dog shows signs of renal failure such as polydipsia or oliguria, this is an indication that his life is in danger.
There is no solution to protect your pet from grape poisoning, other than prevention. Unfortunately, there is no antidote for this toxin, so it is best to keep them out of your pet's reach. If you have grapevines, be sure to pick up any grapes that have fallen to the ground, as dogs may be attracted to their sweet taste. Avoid feeding your dog food containing grapes and don't give in to your greedy pet's sweet eyes. If you want to give your pet a treat, choose foods that do not contain grapes or other foods that may be harmful to your pet.
