Why
Jujubes have no known toxins, but the hard, pointed pit can lodge in the throat or intestines or injure the gut. Dried jujubes concentrate sugar and fiber, so they easily cause diarrhea. Jujubes cooked into samgyetang or jujube tea often come with seasoning, honey or sugar. There is little research on jujubes in pets, so small amounts are best.
How to give it / if eaten
Remove the pit and chop the flesh finely. A tiny piece or two for cats and small dogs, and up to about one jujube for large dogs, is enough. Skip jujube tea, syrup and honey-soaked jujubes.
Watch for these signs
Too much can cause diarrhea, loose stool or gas. If a pit was swallowed, watch for repeated vomiting, poor appetite, constipation and belly pain.
FAQ
My dog swallowed a jujube pit.
Jujube pits are hard and pointed and can get stuck, especially in small dogs. Call your vet even if your dog seems fine to ask whether to watch or come in.
Can I share the jujube from samgyetang?
Samgyetang is made with garlic and salt, so jujubes soaked in the broth are best avoided. If you want to share, give a little plain, pitted jujube instead.
General information only. Weight, age and health conditions change how a pet reacts, so ask your vet if you are worried.