Also see Macadamia Nuts (plant).
Yes. Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and cause weakness, especially in the back legs. It's rarely life-threatening, and most dogs recover within a day or two, but call your vet.
No one knows exactly what makes macadamia nuts toxic to dogs, but even a small amount can cause problems. The effects are usually mild and short-lived, and the ASPCA says most cases can be managed at home with a vet's guidance. Watch for them in Christmas biscuits, cookies and nut mixes, and remember that cookies often pair them with chocolate, which is a bigger worry. Their high fat content can also trigger pancreatitis. Little is known about their effect on cats, so keep them away from cats too.
Weakness, especially in the back legs, wobbliness, trembling, vomiting, lethargy and a raised temperature, usually within 12 hours. Most dogs are back to normal within 24 to 48 hours. Belly pain and a hunched posture over the next few days can be a sign of pancreatitis.
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline for advice, especially if your dog also ate chocolate or is small. If it happened recently, your vet may make your dog sick. Most dogs only need rest and monitoring at home. Go to a vet if your dog can't walk, is trembling constantly or has a high temperature.
Data sourced from public ASPCA lists. For general guidance only. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your vet or an animal poison control center immediately. · Privacy Policy