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  • 15 E. Duncan Ave,
  • Penticton,
  • British Columbia,
  • Phone: (250) 493-1530

Macadamia Nut Poisoning

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What is macadamia nut poisoning?

Macadamia nuts are the oily fruit of the macadamia tree. Macadamia trees are native to Australia but are now cultivated in other similar climates, including Hawaii, South Africa, and California. While macadamia nuts are edible for humans, they are poisonous to dogs.

The toxic component in the nut is unknown, but it only requires a few nuts to result in illness. Currently, macadamia nut poisoning is only recognized in dogs.

What are the clinical signs of macadamia nut poisoning?

Initial clinical signs of macadamia nut poisoning occur within 3 to 6 hours of ingesting a toxic dose, and include vomiting, fever, and lethargy. Approximately 6 to 12 hours after ingestion, signs will progress to incoordination, reluctance to use the rear limbs, inability to stand, joint stiffness, and muscle tremors.

"Macadamia nuts are high in fat, so ingestion can result in pancreatitis."

Macadamia nuts are high in fat, so ingestion can result in pancreatitis. Clinical signs include severe abdominal pain, dehydration, fever, depression, persistent loss of appetite and vomiting. Dogs with a previous history of pancreatitis, obese dogs, or predisposed breeds are at higher risk. Breeds with a known predisposition include miniature schnauzer, Yorkshire terrier, other terrier breeds, dachshund, miniature poodle, Cavalier King Charles spaniel, and Cocker spaniel.

If you believe your pet has ingested macadamia nuts, immediately call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control center, at 1-800-213-6680.

How is macadamia nut poisoning diagnosed?

There is no specific lab test for macadamia nut poisoning. Diagnosis is made based on a history of macadamia nut ingestion and clinical signs consistent with poisoning.

How is macadamia nut poisoning treated?

Before symptoms develop, your veterinarian may induce vomiting and administer activated charcoal to reduce risk of poisoning. If clinical signs have already developed, then your veterinarian will begin supportive care. Dogs with mild clinical signs can be treated without hospitalization. Dogs that develop pancreatitis may need hospitalization and intensive care, depending on severity.

What is the prognosis for macadamia nut poisoning?

Dogs that receive appropriate veterinary therapy are expected to make a full recovery from macadamia nut poisoning within 24–48 hours.

Prognosis is variable for dogs that develop pancreatitis following macadamia nut ingestion. For dogs with mild pancreatitis, the prognosis for recovery is good. Unfortunately, dogs that develop severe pancreatitis have a guarded prognosis for recovery and increased risk of complications, including diabetes mellitus, bile duct obstruction, and chronic pancreatic disease. Fortunately, pancreatitis in an uncommon complication from macadamia nut poisoning. 

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Doctorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health.