Grapes are toxic to both dogs and cats and should be kept well out of reach of all pets. Even small amounts can cause adverse reactions in some animals.
Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. The likely culprit is tartaric acid, identified by the ASPCA in 2021. The amount varies from grape to grape, which is why some dogs eat a few without problems while others become seriously ill after a small handful. There is no known safe amount, and seedless, organic, red and green grapes all carry the same risk. Cats rarely eat grapes, but the ASPCA advises treating them the same way.
Vomiting is usually the first sign, often within a few hours, and you may see pieces of grape in it. Diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite and a sore belly may follow. Signs of kidney damage can appear within 24 to 72 hours: drinking more or less than usual, producing little or no urine, bad breath and weakness.
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline straight away, even if your pet seems fine, because kidney damage often doesn't show until it's advanced. Don't make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to. If you get there early, the vet will usually induce vomiting and give activated charcoal. This is followed by IV fluids and blood tests to monitor the kidneys over the next two to three days. The sooner treatment starts, the better the outlook.
Data sourced from public ASPCA lists. For general guidance only. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your vet or an animal poison control center immediately. · Privacy Policy