One of the most dangerous substances to dogs is also one of the least known - macadamia nuts. What, in my mind, makes this very concerning is the fact that no one knows what causes the toxicosis or exactly how much needs to be eaten in order for negative side effects to appear. What we do know is that even eating only two teaspoons per pound of body weight can cause tremors and muscle weakness, and consuming more than that can cause vomiting, ataxia, depression, and hyperthermia [1]. These symptoms always develop rapidly after a dog eats macadamia nuts, generally occurring in less than twelve hours[1]. This is a poison unique to dogs, so not much is known about it. If your dog stole your macadamia nut cookies, be on the lookout and be ready to rush him or her to the vet!
As a Senior in Animal Science at Iowa State University, I am here to answer your questions about your pets' safety and to teach you how best to care for your pets.
Friday, April 22, 2016
That's Nuts!
Macadamia Nuts

One of the most dangerous substances to dogs is also one of the least known - macadamia nuts. What, in my mind, makes this very concerning is the fact that no one knows what causes the toxicosis or exactly how much needs to be eaten in order for negative side effects to appear. What we do know is that even eating only two teaspoons per pound of body weight can cause tremors and muscle weakness, and consuming more than that can cause vomiting, ataxia, depression, and hyperthermia [1]. These symptoms always develop rapidly after a dog eats macadamia nuts, generally occurring in less than twelve hours[1]. This is a poison unique to dogs, so not much is known about it. If your dog stole your macadamia nut cookies, be on the lookout and be ready to rush him or her to the vet!
One of the most dangerous substances to dogs is also one of the least known - macadamia nuts. What, in my mind, makes this very concerning is the fact that no one knows what causes the toxicosis or exactly how much needs to be eaten in order for negative side effects to appear. What we do know is that even eating only two teaspoons per pound of body weight can cause tremors and muscle weakness, and consuming more than that can cause vomiting, ataxia, depression, and hyperthermia [1]. These symptoms always develop rapidly after a dog eats macadamia nuts, generally occurring in less than twelve hours[1]. This is a poison unique to dogs, so not much is known about it. If your dog stole your macadamia nut cookies, be on the lookout and be ready to rush him or her to the vet!
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