Why is chocolate toxic to dogs and cats?
Chocolate contains theobromine. This substance occurs naturally in cocoa and gives chocolate its characteristic bitter taste. The amount of theobromine varies by type and brand. In general, dark and bitter chocolate contains more theobromine than milk chocolate.
People can process theobromine relatively quickly. In dogs and cats, it takes longer for the substance to leave the body. As a result, theobromine can accumulate in the body.
Whether your pet becomes ill depends on factors including their weight, the type of chocolate, the amount eaten and their individual sensitivity. The same amount of chocolate can therefore cause more severe symptoms in one animal than in another.
How much chocolate is toxic to a dog or cat?
It is not possible to predict exactly how much chocolate is needed to cause symptoms of poisoning. As a guide, a dog weighing 5 kilograms may develop mild symptoms after eating approximately 16 grams of dark chocolate or 50 grams of milk chocolate. The actual risk depends on the theobromine content, which can vary by type and brand.
Do not use these quantities as a threshold for waiting. Always contact your vet if your pet has eaten chocolate.
Why is chocolate poisoning more common in dogs?
Chocolate poisoning occurs mainly in dogs. They are more likely to eat something from the table and may also swallow the packaging. Theobromine is also toxic to cats, but cats are generally less likely to eat chocolate of their own accord.
Which symptoms can chocolate poisoning cause?
The first symptoms usually develop within 4 to 12 hours after eating chocolate. Sometimes they do not become visible until 24 hours later. If your dog has eaten the packaging, the symptoms may occur later.
A dog or cat may become restless, pant excessively, drink a lot, vomit, develop diarrhoea or experience muscle tremors. Their body temperature may also rise.
Severe poisoning can cause seizures, abnormal heart rhythms and loss of consciousness. Serious chocolate poisoning can ultimately be fatal.
How can you prevent your pet from eating chocolate?
Always store chocolate out of reach of your dog or cat. Do not leave chocolate unattended on the table and check any open bags that may contain chocolate. Take extra care around holidays, when there is often more chocolate in the home.
In addition to chocolate, other foods and products can also be harmful. Read more in the article What is toxic for your pet?.
Has your dog or cat eaten chocolate? Contact your vet immediately
If your pet has eaten chocolate, do not wait for symptoms to develop. Call your vet immediately. Keep the packaging to hand and make a note of the type of chocolate, the estimated quantity and the time your pet ate it. Do you have a general question about your pet’s health? Contact veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.
