Grape, Raisin, Sultana and Currant Toxicity 

With Easter treats like hot cross buns, fruit toast and chocolate making their way onto our tables at this time of year, it’s important to remember that these foods often contain raisins, sultanas and currants – all of which are potentially poisonous to dogs and cats. Similarly, plump, tempting grapes can prove irresistible to our pets and at Bellarine Veterinary Practice in Geelong we regularly see accidental ingestion.  

Why Are These Fruits Dangerous? 

Even small amounts can cause serious harm in susceptible pets, and the toxic dose and sensitivity varies between animals. In some cases, just one or two pieces of fruit can cause issues. Ingestion can lead to acute kidney injury or failure and if left untreated, poisoning can be fatal.  

Signs to Watch For 

Signs of grape, raisin, sultana or currant toxicity may appear within hours and include: 

• Vomiting 

• Diarrhoea 

• Painful abdomen 

• Blood in stool 

• Lethargy 

• Reduced appetite 

Unfortunately, there’s no way to predict whether a dog or cat will be severely affected – even if they’ve eaten these fruits before without issues. In severe cases, kidney failure can develop within 1-3 days, so regular blood and urine tests are required to monitor kidney function. 

What Should You Do? 

Do not wait for signs to appear. If you know or suspect your pet has eaten grapes, raisins, sultanas or currants, contact your vet immediately. Quick treatment is critical to prevent serious complications or death.  

Your vet will induce vomiting to expel any fruit and then they will advise on further treatment and monitoring required. There is no specific antidote so the aim is to minimise toxin absorption, decontaminate the body and support the kidneys to minimise damage. Therapy involves hospitalisation and intravenous fluids with close monitoring and regular testing. 

Pets that do not develop symptoms or have only small exposures and are treated promptly usually recover well. The prognosis is poorer for those suffering from kidney damage or failure.  

Preventing Accidental Ingestion 

Keep festive Easter foods like hot cross buns and chocolate well out of reach and remind family and friends (especially children) not to share treats with pets. Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currents hide in many common household food items such as fruit salad, fruit platters, raisin bread, trail mix, cookies, chocolate, muesli, granola, fruit cake, certain cereals and snack bars.  

Securely store all food away from pets and ensure any rubbish bins or compost bins are inaccessible. 

Don’t delay 

If you suspect your pet has eaten grapes, raisins, sultanas, currents or any foods containing these fruits, contact us immediately on (03) 5248 2009 during clinic hours or Geelong Animal Emergency on (03) 5222 2139 after hours. Seeking early vet care gives the best chance of recovery. 

For non-emergency veterinary appointments, click here to book online.