No Sweet Treat:
Why Chocolate is Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

Don’t give in to those begging puppy eyes! Chocolate is poisonous for both dogs and cats and even small amounts can result in a fatal overdose.

Sadly, here at Animal Clinic of Boardwalk Square, our Kansas City veterinarian has seen many tragic cases of chocolate poisoning. Many owners knew that chocolate was bad but simply did not realize how dangerous this substance actually is for pets.

The Truth About Chocolate:
Why Just a Little Can Land Your Pet in a Veterinary Hospital

Chocolate contains the chemical theobromine, a naturally occurring stimulant in cocoa beans. Theobromine affects the central nervous system and heart muscle, leading to vomiting, diarrhea and hyperactivity. An increase in your dog’s heart rate can lead to muscle twitching, urination, excessive panting and arrhythmia.

So, how much chocolate is ‘deadly’? It depends on the size of your cat or dog. A teaspoon of chocolate will not kill a 50-pound dog, but if the same dog eats a slice of chocolate cake, they will require emergency care. The type of chocolate also affects the amount of theobromine. At only 1 mg per ounce, white chocolate contains relatively little theobromine. Baking chocolate, on the other end, contains 450mg per ounce – a serving dose that can fatal for a small dog or cat.

Chocolate is not toxic to humans because our bodies can effectively break down theobromine. Cats and dogs, however, cannot break it down. And while just a taste of chocolate is not fatal, after pets taste the flavor, they crave more. This can lead to your dog gobbling up half a chocolate pie when you are not look – which can send your dog straight to the veterinary hospital.

Our veterinarian always cautions pet owners to be diligent, especially around the holidays. Remind your children not to leave chocolate candy out after trick-or-treating for Halloween. Ask Thanksgiving dinner guests not to feed your cat or dog any treats, including chocolate, stuffing and turkey bones.

If your pet consumes chocolate, even a small amount, urgent veterinary care is required to ensure your pet does not become fatally ill.

How do you keep chocolate and people food out of your pet's paws?