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“Sorbitol” has been a common name to dog owners as they usually see this ingredient in dog foods or toothpaste. Some say the compound is safe for your fur baby, whereas others say it might irritate his health. Now the question might rise- Is Sorbitol safe in dog toothpaste? Emphatically, the answer to this query depends. Sorbitol is an artificial sugar alcohol. It has osmotic laxative, diuretic, and cathartic properties. Therefore, Sorbitol is often used as an artificial sweetener in dog foods, treats, toothpaste, etc.
What Actually Sorbitol In Reality Is?
Sorbitol is an artificial sweetener that makes dog food more appealing. It’s a sugar alcohol derived from fruits or plants, viz- peaches, apples, pears, etc. But, a popular origin of Sorbitol is potato starch. Sorbitol molecules are obtained through glucose reduction. In this reduction procedure, the glucose aldehyde group converts to the primary alcohol group. It’s used in many products as a substitute for Xylitol or other harmful sweeteners. Compared to the other sweeteners, Sorbitol is less toxic and safe for dogs in toothpaste.
Where Is Sorbitol Used?
The main purpose of Sorbitol is to act as an artificial sweetener. It’s used in dog treats, food, and toothpaste. Sometimes, it’s also used in human products as a substitute for Xylitol. Despite its potential side effects, many international organizations like JEFCA, FDA, FAO, and WHO have declared the safety of using Sorbitol.
Is Sorbitol Safe For Dogs In Toothpaste?
If your fur baby is healthy, then unquestionably, Sorbitol is safe for him. But the intake of Sorbitol in the case of pregnant or lactating dogs is problematic. For example, most dog toothpaste undeniably contains Sorbitol. But that amount is mere that won’t cause toxicity to him. So your dog is not going to face many problems unless he ingests the full tube of it. But in the case of other packaged food products, treats, etc., the amount of Sorbitol should be moderate or minimal.
How Much Sorbitol Is Safe for My Dog’s Ingestion?
Sorbitol is safe for dogs in toothpaste. But other packaged foods also use Sorbitol as an ingredient. So, you need to maintain cautiousness in its amount ratio. Use of sorbitol up to 10 or 20mg per kilogram at best is safe. If sorbitol intake exceeds this range, you might notice symptoms of sorbitol toxicity in your dog.
What Are the Common and Possible Consequences of Sorbitol?
Some side effects of sorbitol intake are common. Mention worthy:
- Stomach upsets
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Hyperglycemia
- Dry mouth
- Unbalanced osmoregulation
However, if the side effects last more than 24 hours, you should contact your vet instantly.
Does Sorbitol Cause Dog Upset Stomach?
If your dog takes Sorbitol in a prescribed amount, it’s not harmful to him. Minor or moderate stomach upset is the most common side effect of sorbitol intake. If your pup has any underlying condition that inclines it to cause diarrhea, then the symptoms might worsen.
A study showed that intake of Sorbitol in nursing rats resulted in the passage of it to the offspring. Thus owners observed toxicity signs in the newbies. Sorbitol is also not good for those dogs allergic to it. The sorbitol intake side effects are minor. But if your mutt has IBS, then the sorbitol intake might aggregate the symptoms. That’s why people and dogs with IBS can’t absorb Sorbitol well. But everything has pros and cons. As Sorbitol has laxative properties, it softens your dog’s stool by retaining water in his large intestine.
Why Is Sorbitol Toxic To Dogs?
As previously stated, Sorbitol is a highly laxative agent. That’s why the excessive intake of Sorbitol causes flatulence along with a runny stool. Discomforts also become common, but Sorbitol is slightly toxic, which won’t cause him life-threatening risks. It’s used as an alternative to Xylitol.
Symptoms of Sorbitol Poisoning in Dogs
Dogs sporadically fall victims to sorbitol poisoning. But some symptoms which might make you sure of it are enlisted:
- Ataxia
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Agitation
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Minimal to moderate gastrointestinal distress
Xylitol Vs Sorbitol- Which One Is Better?
Xylitol and Sorbitol are both well-known artificial sweeteners. Xylitol is usually used in human toothpaste, whereas Sorbitol is used in dog toothpaste. Xylitol is an additive sugar substitute in medicines and drugs. It can be determined as a polyalcohol or alditol. But, Xylitol is incredibly harmful to your fur baby. It’s very toxic to adult dogs or pups.
On the other hand, Sorbitol is safe for dogs in toothpaste. But, again, Xylitol causes more dental decay than Sorbitol. Still, Xylitol is more expensive in comparison to Sorbitol.
Be it Xylitol or Sorbitol, ingesting a large number of sweeteners might result in negative side effects. Namely, nervousness, obesity, allergy, kidney, and liver issues might be the consequence.
What Are The Ingredients To Be Avoided In Do Toothpaste?
Xylitol is a kind of artificial sweetener which is nothing but a harmful intake for your dog. Other toxic substances that you need to avoid in your dog’s diet include:
- Artificial harmful colors
- Alcohol
- Artificial sweeteners
- Harmful flavors
- Grape seed extract
- Antibacterials
- Food preservative
- Fluorine
- Methylparaben
- Sodium Hexametaphosphate
Rolling To the End
Sorbitol is indeed safe for dogs when used in toothpaste. It’s nothing but sugar alcohol. But sorbitol intake from external agents, like dog food or treats, might be risky. Your special attention is sought, if your dog has IBS. Pregnant or lactating dogs should try to stay away from Sorbitol. Brushing your dog’s teeth with toothpaste containing Sorbitol is safe. Don’t forget to brush him twice to avoid plaque and tartar buildups.
