There’s nothing quite as romantic as being gifted a box of handmade chocolate truffles on Valentine’s Day, but that romance can quickly fade when your pet gets its paws on your pralines!

Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that is highly toxic to dogs and cats. It also contains small amounts of caffeine. The amount of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate your pet consumes.

White chocolate contains only small traces of theobromine but can still make your pet unwell, as it is high in fat and sugar. Milk chocolate can be very variable. Dark chocolate contains the most theobromine and is therefore the most dangerous. Owners should also be aware of their pets ingesting baking chocolate and cocoa powder.

Clinical signs typically occur within 2-4 hours after ingestion. Initially, your pet may have vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or increased drinking and urination. This can progress to wobbliness, hyperactivity, tremors or seizures. They may also experience breathing difficulties, a high temperature, and changes in their heart rate or rhythm.

What can your vet do?

If you notice your pet has eaten chocolate, your vet can make your pet vomit to remove as much chocolate from the stomach as possible. Vets may also feed your pet charcoal to absorb the rest of the toxin. More serious cases may require your pet to be hospitalised for supportive care, such as anti-seizure medication, fluids and close monitoring.

To prevent chocolate poisoning, it is important to be cautious when sharing food with your furry companions and remember that what is a sweet indulgence for us can be a dangerous temptation for them. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet has consumed chocolate, as early intervention can save lives.