Incidental amounts in complete foods are usually tolerated. Do not add extra xanthan gum to homemade pet meals. If diarrhea or bloating appears after a new product, check labels for gum thickeners.
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide thickener made by fermenting sugars with Xanthomonas campestris bacteria, dried into powder. Used in salad dressings, sauces, ice cream, gluten-free baking, and many commercial pet foods to stabilize texture.
Helps prevent separation in emulsions and improves structure in gluten-free dough. Overuse may create gummy textures and may increase gas or loose stool in sensitive pets.
Flavored products containing xanthan gum may also include salt, onion, garlic, or sweeteners. Also appears in canned gravies, dental gels, and liquid supplement formulas.
