05/28/2023
Information
Some interesting and important findings related to grape and raisin toxicity in dogs - tartaric acid! We all know not to feed grapes or raisins to dogs, but I guess this means, no snickerdoodles either.
Could't link to the full article (you have to be a CIVT member) but here's the jist.
Toxicity of Cream of Tartar and Tamarinds in Dogs - Potential Links to Grapes and Raisins
"A team of researchers from the USA recently studied the exposure history, clinical signs, treatment, and diagnostic findings in four dogs following ingestion of tamarinds, and in two dogs following ingestion of cream of tartar. They investigated tartaric acid, the common denominator, as the proposed toxic principle in tamarinds and grapes.
Reports in which dogs developed acute kidney injury following ingestion of cream of tartar or tamarinds were identified from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center electronic database. In these cases, decontamination was not performed, and treatments were delayed. Despite IV fluids and symptomatic and supportive care, two of the dogs became anuric and one became oliguric. Four dogs were euthanized, and the outcome is unknown for two of the dogs. Necropsies were performed on three of the dogs. Clinical signs, laboratory findings, and histopathologic lesions were similar to those reported in grape and raisin toxicosis.
The researchers believe that acute kidney injury may develop following ingestion of cream of tartar or tamarinds in dogs. Connecting these reports with findings in grape and raisin toxicosis and the sensitivity to tartaric acid in dogs, tartaric acid is identified as the likely toxic component in grapes and tamarinds. Awareness of the potential toxicity of cream of tartar and tamarinds in dogs will allow for prompt decontamination and proactive IV fluid diuresis, which could lead to improved outcomes. In addition, recognizing tartaric acid as the potential nephrotoxic component in grapes and raisins may enable advancements in research, diagnostics, and treatment of grape and raisin toxicosis in dogs."
