Many foods and snacks can be shared with our pets, but many more are toxic to them. While nuts can be a fun occasional treat for dogs, it’s important to know which ones are toxic. Macadamia nuts are a healthy treat for humans but are unfortunately not healthy for dogs. Our furry friends should not eat macadamia nuts; even small amounts can make them sick.
What if My Dog Eats Macadamia Nuts?
Dogs should not eat macadamia nuts. Macadamia nuts interfere with a dog’s neurological system, though researchers still only understand why on a broad level.
Keep macadamia nuts in a safe place where your dog cannot access them. Even 2 grams of macadamia nuts per 2 pounds of your dog’s body weight can induce signs of poisoning.
If your dog does eat macadamia nuts, remove the macadamia nuts so your dog cannot access them. Monitor your dog for any symptoms of macadamia nut poisoning. If there was chocolate on the macadamia nuts, contact your veterinarian as well.
Immediately call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline®, at (855)-764-7661 if your dog ate macadamia nuts or if they are exhibiting any unusual symptoms.
How Do I Know if My Dog is Experiencing Macadamia Nut Poisoning?
If your dog is experiencing macadamia nut poisoning, weakness is the most common sign. It might be hard for your dog to walk or even stand. Be sure to watch your dog so they do not hurt themselves. It will be hard to watch your best friend but make sure to watch for any other common signs of macadamia nut poisoning.
Common Clinical Signs of Macadamia Nut Poisoning:
- Lethargy
- Tremors
- Fever
- Diarrhea
Treatment for Macadamia Nut Poisoning
If you think you should have your dog vomit, do not do that. First, speak with your veterinarian to make sure that is the best choice. If your vet is unsure of how much pain your dog is in, you may have to go to the vet clinic. But if your dog is not in a lot of pain, then your vet may have you stay home.
In the vet clinic, your veterinarian may have your dog vomit so they can get rid of the remaining macadamia nuts in their system. Your vet can also use activated charcoal. Activated charcoal sticks to the remaining macadamia nuts and it helps make your dog feel better.
Prognosis
It’s scary to watch your best friend go to the vet and be in pain but the vet is doing their best. Dogs can recover from macadamia nut poisoning, but they need to see a vet. After a couple of days, your best friend should be feeling like themselves!
