Is chocolate bad for dogs and cats? The answer is yes – chocolate toxicity in dogs and cats can be a serious health issue. While many pet owners are aware of this, it’s worth learning about the specific factors that cause chocolate poisoning.
Below, we look at what it is about chocolate that doesn’t agree with our pets, why different types of chocolate have different effects and answer some of your frequently asked questions.
In this article
Why is chocolate bad for dogs and cats?
Chocolate toxicity is caused by an ingredient called theobromine. This is completely harmless to humans, but our pets aren’t able to metabolise it in the same way.
Simply put, dogs and cats take a long time to metabolise theobromine. This means that if they eat a large amount of chocolate, theobromine can build up in their systems and cause toxicity. That toxicity can quickly reach levels that result in causes chocolate poisoning in pets. Chocolate also contains caffeine, which is another problematic ingredient for both dogs and cats. Just like theobromine, our pets can’t effectively metabolise caffeine. Theobromine and caffeine are both types of methylxanthines – which is what’s measured to determine chocolate toxicity
How much chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats?
If your pet got into the Easter stash and isn’t showing any signs of poisoning yet, you’re probably frantically searching online to see how much chocolate is harmful for them.
The short answer is that it depends on both the type of chocolate and the size of your pet. One chocolate bar is much less likely to cause toxic levels of methylxanthines to a large pet than a small one. So yes, a large Rottweiler could potentially get away with sneaking a block of chocolate more easily than a Chihuahua.
Of course, it’s often hard to know just how much they’ve eaten – and considering that chocolate toxicity in dogs and cats can be fatal, it’s best to phone your vet either way. They’ll be able to let you know if you should bring your pet in or not.
Is white chocolate poisonous to dogs and cats?
When it comes to chocolate toxicity in dogs and cats, why would the chocolate type make a difference? Is chocolate bad for dogs regardless of the type? Methylxanthine levels are higher in some chocolates. Dark chocolate, cooking chocolate and anything with significant amounts of cocoa has significantly higher levels of it, whereas milk and white chocolate pose a lower risk.
A small amount of chocolate might make your pet sick but is less likely to cause serious, or lasting ill-effects. So if your Labrador snuck a bite of your white chocolate Easter egg, he’s probably going to be fine. But if your Jack Russell managed to scoffle down half a slab of dark chocolate, a trip to the vet is in order.
Symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs
Let’s say you’re unsure if your dog got hold of some choccies, but he definitely has that guilty face on and the pantry door is open … What are the signs and symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs?
Below are some symptoms to look out for which may indicate chocolate poisoning:
- vomiting (which may include blood)
- diarrhoea
- hyperactivity
- drooling
- increased thirst
- rapid breathing
- muscle tension
- loss of coordination
- seizures
- rapid heart rate
We recommend that whether your dog shows these chocolate poisoning symptoms or not, it’s best not to delay and phone your vet.
Signs of chocolate toxicity in cats
The signs of chocolate toxicity are the same in cats as they are in dogs. Remember that because cats are usually smaller, they may exhibit more severe symptoms than dogs. And their weight means a smaller amount of chocolate is more poisonous to them than your big canine friends. Although chocolate is more famous for being bad for dogs than cats, that’s largely because our canine companions are more prone to breaking and entering into the treat supply
If in doubt, go to the vet
When your pet has eaten chocolate, try to stay calm. If you suspect or know your pet has eaten a large amount of chocolate, get to the vet right away. Unless it’s a small amount – then call your vet with details and ask whether you should bring them in for an examination.
If possible, keep the chocolate packaging so your vet has more information to go on. And while we’re tackling chocolate toxicity in dogs and cats, find out about some other common things that can poison your pet.
Prompt treatment with pet insurance
Now we know the ‘why’ behind the question ‘Is chocolate bad for dogs?’ If you have pet insurance, deciding whether to seek chocolate toxicity treatment for your dog or cat doesn’t have to be financially motivated. Instead, you’ll have a soft landing to help you make care-based decisions for your furry family member.
PD Insurance is about providing hassle-free cover for your dog and cat for when things go wrong. We’re proud of our compassionate, dedicated claims managers and fast settlement process. Why not get a quote today?