Understanding Grape Toxicity in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatments, and Types of Grapes

Jenn Hoskins
27th August, 2024

Understanding Grape Toxicity in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatments, and Types of Grapes

Image Source: Nataliya Vaitkevich (photographer)

Key Findings

  • The study reviewed 24 scientific papers on dogs ingesting unprocessed Vitis vinifera fruit (VVF), including grapes and raisins
  • Common symptoms in dogs included gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, neurological symptoms, and blood abnormalities
  • Treatment typically involved fluid therapy, diuretics, and antiemetics, but the exact toxic dose of VVF remains unclear
Vitis vinifera fruit (VVF) ingestion, encompassing grapes, raisins, currants, and sultanas, poses a significant risk to dogs, potentially leading to severe health issues. Despite the known dangers, the exact toxic dose remains unclear, making treatment challenging for veterinarians. A recent study conducted by the University of Nottingham sought to review and consolidate existing scientific evidence on VVF ingestion in dogs to better understand the clinical signs and treatments involved[1]. The study involved a comprehensive review of 24 scientific papers, focusing on dogs that ingested unprocessed VVF. The primary areas of interest were the types of VVF ingested, the clinical signs reported, and the treatments administered. The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology, ensuring a thorough and systematic approach. The findings revealed a wide range of VVF types ingested by dogs, but determining a specific toxic dose was challenging. The most commonly reported clinical signs included gastrointestinal issues, renal dysfunction, neurological symptoms, and hematological abnormalities. Treatment approaches varied but typically involved fluid therapy, diuretics, and antiemetics. This study builds on previous research that has documented the severe consequences of grape and raisin ingestion in dogs. For instance, a study described clinical grape poisoning in two dogs, a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier, which resulted in acute kidney injury and death[2]. Another study highlighted the severe acute kidney injury (AKI) and neurological signs in dogs with grape or raisin toxicosis (GRT), noting that these neurological manifestations were not associated with the severity of azotemia or systemic hypertension[3]. Additionally, research has suggested that tartaric acid, a component found in grapes, could be the toxic principle, as similar AKI was observed in dogs ingesting cream of tartar and tamarinds[4]. Interestingly, a retrospective study involving 606 dogs in the United Kingdom reported no significant AKI in most cases of VVF ingestion when current emergency treatment guidelines were followed[5]. This outcome contrasts with the severe cases documented in other studies, suggesting that early and appropriate intervention might mitigate the risks. The University of Nottingham's review underscores the variability in clinical presentations and outcomes following VVF ingestion in dogs. While gastrointestinal and renal dysfunction are common, the severity and prognosis can differ significantly. This variability highlights the need for further research to establish more precise treatment protocols and improve clinical outcomes. In conclusion, VVF ingestion in dogs remains a complex issue with no clear toxic dose, and clinical signs can vary widely. The reviewed study emphasizes the importance of early intervention and tailored treatment strategies to manage the diverse clinical presentations effectively. Further research is essential to develop evidence-based guidelines that can help veterinarians provide the best possible care for affected dogs.

MedicineHealthAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Scoping review exploring the evidence base on Vitis vinifera toxicity in dogs after ingestion: Clinical effects, treatments and types of V. vinifera.

Published 25th August, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.4536

Related Studies

2) Natural occurrence of grape poisoning in two dogs.

Journal: The Journal of veterinary medical science, Issue: Vol 73, Issue 2, Feb 2011

3) Toxicosis with grapes or raisins causing acute kidney injury and neurological signs in dogs.

https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15884

4) Acute kidney injury in dogs following ingestion of cream of tartar and tamarinds and the connection to tartaric acid as the proposed toxic principle in grapes and raisins.

https://doi.org/10.1111/vec.13234

5) Retrospective evaluation of Vitis vinifera ingestion in dogs presented to emergency clinics in the UK (2012-2016): 606 Cases.

https://doi.org/10.1111/vec.13025


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