Pet emergency
My dog ate Cabernet Sauvignon grape — what to do
Step by step
- Take cabernet sauvignon grape away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My dog ate cabernet sauvignon grape — FAQ
Is cabernet sauvignon grape poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Cabernet Sauvignon grape (Vitis vinifera 'Cabernet Sauvignon') as mildly toxic to dogs. Vitis vinifera grapes are listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats, with grapes and raisins documented to cause acute kidney failure in dogs at an unknown toxic threshold. Any grape ingestion by a dog should be treated as a veterinary emergency. The toxic compound remains unidentified. Cats are also at risk.
How serious is it if my dog ate cabernet sauvignon grape?
Cabernet Sauvignon grape is mildly toxic, so most dogs get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your dog ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Vitis vinifera grapes are listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats, with grapes and raisins documented to cause acute kidney failure in dogs at an unknown toxic threshold. Any grape ingestion by a dog should be treated as a veterinary emergency. The toxic compound remains unidentified. Cats are also at risk. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my dog vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep cabernet sauvignon grape well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is cabernet sauvignon grape toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Cabernet Sauvignon grape and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide