Home » Diseases » In dogs » Aflatoxin Mycotoxicosis (Fungal Poisoning from the Mold Toxin Aflatoxin)

Aflatoxin Mycotoxicosis (Fungal Poisoning from the Mold Toxin Aflatoxin) in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: General/Whole body

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Aflatoxin mycotoxicosis is a poisoning in dogs caused by consuming feed contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. with the mold toxinA toxin is a poison produced by living cells or organisms that can be harmful to the body upon contact or ingestion. Toxins can originate from bacteria, plants, animals, or fungi. aflatoxin. Aflatoxins are toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. compounds produced by certain molds of the genus Aspergillus.

The most important facts at a glance

Aflatoxins are toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances produced by molds such as Aspergillus flavus and can be found in contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. dog food. These toxins cause severe liver damage in dogs by disrupting proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. synthesis and causing oxidative damage. Typical symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning are Weight loss, Vomiting, jaundice, and in severe cases, liver failure or Death. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by analyzing blood values and possible feed contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances.. Treatment involves supporting liver function and immediately removing contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. feed. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the severity of the poisoning: it is usually better with early treatment. For preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., dog owners should rely on high-quality feed and store it properly to avoid mold formation. Research focuses on the development of rapid tests for the detection of aflatoxins and strategies to reduce exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats., such as detoxification methods and genetic studies on susceptibility in dogs. Long-term studies are important to understand the risks of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.. Interdisciplinary approaches and international collaborations should help to find effective solutions against this health threat for dogs.

Causes

Aflatoxins are secondary metabolites produced primarily by the fungal species Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These molds thrive particularly well in warm and humid conditions, which are often found in poorly stored grains and feed crops. Aflatoxins can cause toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. effects in a variety of animals, with sensitivity varying by species.

In dogs, the ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of aflatoxins leads to an accumulation of the toxins in the liver, the primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. organ for detoxification. The toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. effect of aflatoxins is based on their ability to disrupt proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. synthesis and cause oxidative damage in liver cells. This can lead to liver failure and, in severe cases, Death.

The main cause of aflatoxin mycotoxicosis is the ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. dog food. Poorly stored or processed feed, especially those containing corn, peanuts, or other grains, are susceptible to mold infestation. Dogs that regularly consume such contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. feed are at increased risk.

In addition, certain environmental conditions, such as high humidity and temperatures, can promote the growth of Aspergillus and the production of aflatoxins. Inadequate controls during feed production and storage can also play a role.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs can vary depending on the amount and duration of ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems.. The most common symptoms include loss of appetite, Vomiting, and lethargy. These signs often appear suddenly and can worsen rapidly.

In the advanced stage, jaundice (icterus) may occur, which is recognizable by a yellow discoloration of the mucous membranes and skin. This is an indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient’s clinical condition. of liver dysfunctionDysfunction refers to an impaired or abnormal function of an organ or system in the body. This can be due to diseases, disorders, or damage and can affect the quality of life.. Other symptoms may include DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., Bleeding (due to decreased production of clotting factors in the liver), and an enlarged liver.

Severely affected dogs may show neurological symptoms such as Seizures and Behavioral changes. In severe cases, acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. liver failure and Death can occur, especially if the poisoning is not treated in time.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of aflatoxin mycotoxicosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., and specific diagnostic tests. An important clue is the dog’s historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., especially if it has recently consumed feed that may be contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment..

Laboratory tests are crucial for diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Blood tests may show elevated liver enzymesEnzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate specific chemical reactions in the body without being consumed. They play a crucial role in virtually all physiological processes., bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion., and other abnormalities associated with liver dysfunctionDysfunction refers to an impaired or abnormal function of an organ or system in the body. This can be due to diseases, disorders, or damage and can affect the quality of life.. A detailed analysis of blood clotting factors can also provide evidence of liver disease.

In some cases, a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. of the liver may be necessary to determine the extent of liver damage. However, this is an invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. procedure and is only performed when clinically necessary. The detection of aflatoxins in the dog’s feed can confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Therapy

The treatment of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs focuses on supporting liver function and reducing toxin exposure. Immediate removal of the contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. feed is crucial to prevent further ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of aflatoxins.

Intravenous fluid therapy can help support liver function and promote the eliminationElimination refers to the process by which waste products and toxins are removed from the body. This includes excretion via the kidneys (urine), intestines (stool), lungs (breath), and skin. of toxins. In some cases, medications such as hepatoprotectants (e.g., S-adenosylmethionine or milk thistle extract) may be used to protect liver cells and promote regeneration.

In severe poisonings, intensive care may be required, including treatment of complications such as Bleeding or Seizures. In such cases, however, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. can be serious.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with aflatoxin mycotoxicosis depends on the severity of the poisoning and the speed of treatment. With early detection and treatment, the liver can recover and the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is generally good.

Dogs that have suffered severe liver damage have a poorer prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. and may require long-term treatment and monitoring. In some cases, the liver damage may be irreversible, leading to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. health problems.

The mortalityMortality is the death rate within a population over a specific period. It is often used to assess the severity of diseases or the effectiveness of health measures. rate in dogs with severe aflatoxin poisoning can be high, especially if treatment is delayed or the liver is already severely damaged.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs requires careful measures regarding the selectionSelection refers to the process of natural or artificial selection of specific individuals for reproduction, based on desired genetic traits. In breeding, this is applied to promote specific characteristics in dogs and cats., storage, and handling of feed. Purchasing dog food from reputable manufacturers who use strict quality control measures can reduce the risk of contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances..

It is important to store dog food in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas to prevent the growth of mold. Regular inspections of the feed for signs of mold or spoilage can help identify potential risks early on.

Pet owners should also pay attention to recalls and warnings from feed manufacturers that indicate contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances.. If aflatoxin poisoning is suspected, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately to ensure rapid diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment.

Outlook on current research

Aflatoxin mycotoxicosis poses a significant health threat to dogs, as these toxins are produced by certain molds, especially Aspergillus flavus, and can be found in contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. feed. Research focuses on better understanding the mechanisms of toxicity and developing strategies to mitigate exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.. A key focus is on improving feed monitoring to detect and prevent contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances. early on. Modern technologies, such as the use of sensors and the development of rapid tests, could help ensure the safety of feed.

Another area of research is investigating the genetic susceptibility of dogs to aflatoxicosis. Different breeds and individuals show varying sensitivities to aflatoxins, and genetic factors are believed to play a role. By understanding these genetic predispositions, more targeted preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies could be developed.

In addition, the development of detoxification methods that neutralize aflatoxins in the body or accelerate their excretion is being explored. Biological detoxification, such as through the use of microorganisms that can degrade aflatoxins, is a promising area. The use of binders in feed that block the absorptionAbsorption refers to the uptake of substances by living cells or tissues. In the context of veterinary medicine, it often refers to the absorption of nutrients, drugs, or toxins from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. of aflatoxins in the digestive tract is also being investigated.

Research into the long-term consequences of aflatoxin exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. in dogs is also important. ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats., even at low doses, can have serious health effects, including liver damage and an increased risk of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.. Long-term studies help to quantify these risks and develop appropriate protective measures.

In addition to research on the direct health effects, there are also studies on the economic impact of aflatoxin contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances.. The costs of veterinary treatments and economic losses due to the recall of contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. feed are significant. Therefore, research is also being conducted on the development of cost-effective methods for preventing and treating aflatoxicosis.

Overall, research on aflatoxins has made progress in recent years, but remains a challenge given the global prevalence of these toxins and their potentially devastating effects on animal health and agricultural economies. Interdisciplinary approaches and international collaborations are being used to find effective solutions.

Advances in genomics and biotechnology offer promising new approaches to deepen the understanding of aflatoxicosis. By applying such technologies, it is hoped that more targeted and effective preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment strategies can be developed in the near future.

Another current branch of research is investigating the role of environmental conditions in the spread of aflatoxins. Climate change and its impact on agriculture could affect the frequency of aflatoxin contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances.. Therefore, studies that examine the links between climate, fungal growth, and toxinA toxin is a poison produced by living cells or organisms that can be harmful to the body upon contact or ingestion. Toxins can originate from bacteria, plants, animals, or fungi. production are of great importance.

Finally, research is also being conducted on vaccines that could reduce the susceptibility of dogs to the toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. effects of aflatoxins. Although this research is still in its early stages, such vaccines could provide a long-term sustainable solution to protect dogs from the harmful effects of mycotoxicosis.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are aflatoxins? Aflatoxins are toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. compounds produced by certain molds, especially Aspergillus species. They can be found in food and feed and are highly toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. to many animal species, including dogs.

How does aflatoxin get into dog food? Aflatoxins can get into dog food if raw materials such as corn or peanuts are contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. with mold during storage. ContaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances. often occurs under humid and warm conditions.

What symptoms does a dog show with aflatoxin poisoning? Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs include Vomiting, Diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice, and in severe cases, liver failure. ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. can also lead to Growth disorders and cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas..

What should I do if I suspect my dog has ingested aflatoxins? If you suspect that your dog has ingested aflatoxins, you should seek veterinary attention immediately. Rapid diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to increase your dog’s chances of survival.

Can aflatoxins be fatal to dogs? Yes, aflatoxins can be fatal to dogs, especially with high exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.. The toxins damage the liver and can lead to acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. liver failure, which is fatal if left untreated.

Can humans be endangered by aflatoxins in dog food? Humans are not directly endangered by aflatoxins in dog food, as they usually consume other foods. Nevertheless, caution is advised, as the toxins can also be found in human foods. Hygienic handling of contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. feed is important.

How can I prevent my dog from ingesting aflatoxins? To minimize the risk of aflatoxin exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats., you should buy high-quality dog food from trusted manufacturers who regularly test their products for contaminants. Store the food in a dry, cool place to prevent mold growth.

Are there specific tests to diagnose aflatoxin poisoning? Yes, veterinarians can perform special blood tests to check liver function and confirm the presence of aflatoxins. Liver biopsies and other diagnostic procedures can also be used.

Is treatment of aflatoxin poisoning possible in dogs? Treatment of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs focuses on supporting liver function and preventing further toxinA toxin is a poison produced by living cells or organisms that can be harmful to the body upon contact or ingestion. Toxins can originate from bacteria, plants, animals, or fungi. uptake. Fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., antioxidants, and special diets can help promote recovery. Early treatment increases the likelihood of success.

How is the feed industry regulated to prevent aflatoxin contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances.? The feed industry is subject to strict regulations and controls to minimize the risk of aflatoxin contaminationContamination refers to the pollution of surfaces, objects, water, food, or air with harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other hazardous substances.. Regular testing and quality controls are required to ensure that products are safe for consumption. Consumers should pay attention to recalls and inform themselves about the practices of manufacturers.