Chocolate Toxicity

November 11th, 2008

Chocolate may be one of the most popular treats in the world but it can be toxic to dogs, cats, horses, parrots and some rodents.  Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, ingredients that animals are unable to metabolize effectively. A dose as low as 1 ounce of milk chocolate per pound can be lethal to a dog.  Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain more theobromine and caffeine and can be fatal at even lower doses. Both theobromine and caffeine can cross the placenta and be toxic to the fetus if a pregnant animal ingests chocolate.

Signs of chocolate toxicity occur within 6 to 12 hours after ingestion and can include vomiting and diarrhea, followed by heart beat irregularities, tremors, seizures and death.  As the holiday season approaches, be sure to keep all chocolate treats out of reach of your pets.  If you suspect your pet has consumed chocolate, call your veterinarian immediately.  Note how much chocolate was consumed and whether it was milk chocolate, dark chocolate or bakers chocolate.  A timely call to your veterinarian can avert a potential holiday disaster.

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