Page 141 - Raw Diet References Book 2019

7. RISK OF SOME HUMAN FOODS REGULARLY GIVEN TO PETS

ANNEX 6 provides some practical information about This annex lists signs that should alert pet owners and
some common human foods (such as raisins, grapes, combines information that is not easily found in one
onions, garlic and chocolate) with documented adverse place or has only been available recently. There may be
effects when given to dogs or cats either as a treat or other foods that are potentially hazardous when fed to
when left over from the table are shared with pets. dogs or cats, but they are not yet documented.

7.1 Grape and raisin toxicity in dogs

7.1.1 Background

Since 1989 the Animal Poison Control Centre (APCC) 2003 to April 2004 the APCC managed 140 cases, of
of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty which 50 dogs developed clinical signs and seven
to Animals has recorded cases of poisoning in dogs died (ASPCA, 2004). Cases have been reported in the
that had eaten grapes (Vitis spp) or raisins. From April USA and the UK (Eubig et al. 2005, Penny et al. 2003).

7.1.2 Clinical signs and pathology

Affected dogs typically suffer gastrointestinal upset level (Eubig et al. 2005). If the condition progresses, the
followed by acute renal failure (ARF). The initial signs of dog eventually is unable to pass urine. At this stage the
grape or raisin toxicity are vomiting (100% of reported prognosis is generally poor and usually a decision is
cases) followed by lethargy, anorexia, diarrhoea, taken to euthanize the animal.
abdominal pain, ataxia, and weakness (Eubig et al.
2005). In the majority of dogs, vomiting, anorexia, The most consistent histopathological lesions
lethargy and diarrhoea occur within the first 24 hours reported were diffuse renal tubular degeneration,
of exposure, in some cases vomiting starts as early especially in the proximal tubules (Eubig et al. 2005).
as 5 to 6 hours after ingestion (Eubig et al. 2005). The Mineralization of necrotic renal structures has been
vomit and or faeces may contain partially digested reported, but also tubular cell regeneration in some
grapes or raisins or swollen raisins. Classic signs of ARF cases. Mineralization and/or congestion of extra-renal
can develop within 24 hours or up to several days later. tissues and organs have also been observed (Eubig et al.
These include substantial increases in blood urea and 2005). It has to be pointed out, however, that many dogs
serum creatinine, as well as in the calcium x phosphorus never develop AFR after ingestion of raisins or grapes.
product, serum phosphorus and later in total calcium

7.1.3 Toxic agent

The toxic agent (or agents) has so far defied been suggested, resulting in a disturbance of sugar
detection. Analysis for a variety of substances metabolism, but this seems unlikely as dogs are not
has proved negative, including mycotoxins, heavy known for susceptibilities to high sugar intake.
metals, pesticides and vitamin D3 (AFIP 2003, Eubig
et al. 2005). It is postulated that the cause may be a The poisoning seems to occur with grapes and
nephrotoxin or anaphylactic shock leading to renal raisins of all types: those purchased from a store or
problems (AFIP 2003). Excess sugar intake has also grown at home, grape pressings from wineries and

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