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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

CHOCOLATE TOXICITY

 

Theobromine is the component of chocolate that causes trouble for our pets. Its effects on the body include:

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulation

  • Cardiovascular stimulation

  • Increased blood pressure (mild)

  • Nausea and vomiting

Signs of toxicity depend on the amount ingested. They are most commonly seen 12 hours or less after chocolate ingestion and include:

  • Excitement / nervousness / trembling

  • Vomiting / diarrhea

  • Excessive thirst and/or urination

  • Muscle spasms

  • Seizures

  • Coma

  • Death -- likely due to heart rhythm abnormalities

 

As little as 1 oz of milk chocolate per pound of pet can be lethal!


The toxicity is even greater for other types of chocolate, as seen in the table at right.

 

Theobromine Content of
Typical Chocolate Products

mg/oz.

Dry cocoa powder

737

Cocoa beans

 600

Baker’s (unsweetened) chocolate

393
Cocoa bean hulls (garden mulch)

255

Semi-sweet chocolate chips 

138

Instant cocoa powder 

136

Dark, sweet chocolate

130

Milk chocolate

58

White chocolate

 0.25

The bottom line is that your pet is much safer avoiding chocolate altogether. Keep your candy locked in the cupboard to keep your pet out of harm's way.

If, despite your best efforts, your pet does ingest more than a crumb of chocolate, call our office immediately so steps can be taken to minimize the danger of toxicity.

 

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