Can Dogs Eat Macadamia Nuts?

Macadamia nuts—also known as Queensland nuts—are the fruits of the macadamia tree, an evergreen species from Australia. Prized for their buttery flavor, macadamia nuts are popular additions to many baked goods and a great nutritious snack. These nuts provide many health benefits because they are rich in antioxidants (which prevent cell oxidation and damage) and vitamins.

Macadamia nuts are not safe for dogs to eat. While the specific cause of macadamia nut toxicity in canines is unknown, these rich nuts have a dangerously high-fat content for dogs, which can irritate their stomachs or cause digestive blockages. Due to the large size of the nuts, this human food can also be a choking hazard for your pooch.

Canine macadamia nut poisoning is not usually fatal when appropriately treated; common symptoms include vomiting and muscle weakness. Refrain from feeding your dog any foods that include macadamia nuts, including trail mix. Take your dog to the veterinarian immediately if they consume any amount of macadamia nuts.

If your dog ingests macadamia nuts, you may begin to see symptoms of toxicity within hours of ingestion. The most common early side effects are lethargy and muscle weakness: Dogs may also experience muscle tremors, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

If early side effects go untreated, more severe symptoms may develop, including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), ataxia (stumbling and falling), and hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature). Some dogs may temporarily lose function of their back legs.

Your dog may experience symptoms of macadamia nut toxicity regardless of their body weight or breed. Call the veterinarian right away if your dog eats any amount of macadamia nuts.

If your dog eats macadamia nuts, follow these steps:

1. 1. Call or visit your veterinarian. Macadamia nut poisoning can have severe side effects, and it is best to get an expert opinion on how to proceed safely for your dog. If your dog eats the nuts, call a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) right away. (Call the vet even if you only suspect they have eaten the nuts.) You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline. If your dog is experiencing mild symptoms, take them to see a vet if they worsen. If your veterinarian’s office is not open, take them to an emergency vet.
2. 2. Receive supportive care. Your vet will likely induce vomiting to flush the macadamia nuts from your dog’s system, followed by an activated charcoal treatment to decontaminate and reduce absorption. They may also induce bowel movements or give your dog medication. If your dog has a severe reaction, your vet may administer intravenous fluids (IV fluids).
3. 3. An overnight stay may be necessary. Your vet may want to monitor your dog overnight to oversee their progress and reaction to treatment, which is a common practice when dogs eat grapes or chocolate. If your dog’s symptoms resolve with regular treatment, you may not need to spend the night.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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