Grapes and Raisins: A Mysterious and Potent Toxin
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause sudden, acute kidney failure. The exact substance responsible for the toxicity is still unknown, but all types—seeded, seedless, and products containing them—are dangerous. The toxic dose is unpredictable; some dogs can fall gravely ill after consuming just a few, while others may seem unaffected by larger amounts. Because of this unpredictability, any ingestion should be treated as a potential emergency. Initial symptoms, which can appear within 24 hours, often include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. These can progress to signs of kidney failure, such as abdominal pain and changes in urination patterns (initially increased, then decreased or absent). Prompt and aggressive veterinary treatment, including decontamination and intravenous fluid therapy to support the kidneys, is vital for a chance at recovery.