Grape and Raisin Toxicity
Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Grape/Raisin Toxicity
What is Grape and Raisin Toxicity?
Grape and raisin toxicity is a syndrome that leads to kidney failure in dogs after ingestion of grapes, raisins, or even wine pulp. All types of grapes and raisins pose a risk, and the condition specifically affects dogs, with no other species being known to suffer from it.
Causes and Toxicity
All Breeds Affected: All dog breeds are susceptible to the toxicity, regardless of size or age.
Toxic Dose: Ingestion of just 1-2 raisins can cause kidney damage in some dogs, though the amount that triggers toxicity may vary by individual.
Signs and Symptoms
Early Symptoms (6-8 hours after ingestion): Vomiting, which may or may not be accompanied by diarrhea. Loss of activity and lack of appetite follow soon after.
This may or may not be seen
Later Symptoms: Increased thirst and urination can occur. As kidney failure progresses, the dog may stop producing urine altogether, leading to severe complications, including death.
How We Diagnose Grape and Raisin Toxicity
Diagnosis: Based on a history of ingestion and consistent clinical signs, including vomiting and signs of kidney failure.
Laboratory Tests: Tests reveal abnormal kidney function, but there are no specific tests to directly confirm grape or raisin toxicity.
Other Tests: Additional tests like x-rays or ultrasounds may be needed to rule out other potential causes of kidney failure. Grapes or raisins may be found in the vomit or stool.
Treatment Options
Immediate Medical Attention: Grape or raisin ingestion should be considered an emergency. If ingestion occurred within the past 4 hours, vomiting may be induced to remove the substance from the stomach.
Activated Charcoal: This may be given to bind with the toxins and prevent them from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Intravenous Fluid Therapy: The dog may need hospitalization for IV fluids to support kidney function and prevent further damage. Close monitoring of kidney function and urine output is critical during this time.
Dialysis (Severe Cases): If kidney failure becomes severe, referral to a specialty facility for dialysis may be recommended.
Follow-Up Care
Monitoring: Blood tests are repeated regularly over 3-4 days to monitor kidney function and ensure recovery. The monitoring period may extend to weeks, depending on how the dog responds.
Chronic Kidney Failure: If kidney function does not return to normal, the dog may develop chronic kidney failure, which requires long-term care and monitoring.
Prevention: All sources of grapes or raisins should be completely removed from the dog's environment to prevent future exposure.
Prognosis
Good Prognosis (Early Treatment): If treatment is initiated quickly and the dog shows no clinical signs, the prognosis is generally good, with full recovery of kidney function.
Guarded Prognosis (Delayed Treatment): If kidney failure progresses or treatment is delayed, the prognosis becomes uncertain. Recovery can take days to weeks, and in some dogs, kidney function may never fully return to normal.
If you suspect your dog ingested grapes, please call the ASPCA animal poison control centers: 888-426-4435
