Chocolate Toxicity
You may have heard the warnings, "Don't give your dog
chocolate..." It is good advice! Every year, especially near the holidays,
worried dog owners will call their veterinarian because "Fido" devoured
all of the chocolate treats.
What Makes Chocolate Toxic?
Chocolate contains theobromine which is toxic to dogs in sufficient
quantities. Theobromine is a xanthine compound in the same family as
caffeine.
Theobromine affects the central nervous system, cardiovascular
system and peripheral nerves.
It takes a fairly large amount of theobromine (100-150 mg/kg) to
cause a toxic reaction. Although, there are variables to consider like
individual sensitivity, animal size and chocolate concentration.
Symptoms
While there is no specific antidote for chocolate toxicity, your veterinarian
can provide supportive care.
It is best to keep chocolate away from your dog. Find a secure
place for the Valentine, Halloween and Christmas goodies. Resist
the temptation to share with your companions!
Disclaimer: Vista Animal Hospital makes sincere efforts to ensure the
accuracy of information posted on this website. VAH cannot and will not
be held responsible or liable for errors, inaccuracies or improper use of
information by the reader. Readers who rely on the information
contained on this web site or on other web sites accessed from this one
do so at their own risk and are advised to consult with their veterinarian
before acting on it.
*For More Information Please Contact Your Vet!*
You may have heard the warnings, "Don't give your dog
chocolate..." It is good advice! Every year, especially near the holidays,
worried dog owners will call their veterinarian because "Fido" devoured
all of the chocolate treats.
What Makes Chocolate Toxic?
Chocolate contains theobromine which is toxic to dogs in sufficient
quantities. Theobromine is a xanthine compound in the same family as
caffeine.
Theobromine affects the central nervous system, cardiovascular
system and peripheral nerves.
It takes a fairly large amount of theobromine (100-150 mg/kg) to
cause a toxic reaction. Although, there are variables to consider like
individual sensitivity, animal size and chocolate concentration.
- Milk chocolate contains 44mg of theobromine per oz.
- Semi-sweet chocolate contains 150mg/oz.
- Baker's (dark) chocolate contains 390mg/oz.
Symptoms
- Hyper excitability
- Hyper irritability
- Seizures
- Increased heart rate
- Restlessness
- Muscle tremors
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
While there is no specific antidote for chocolate toxicity, your veterinarian
can provide supportive care.
- IV Fluids prevent dehydration from vomiting, and diarrhea while
"flushing" the theobromine out of the system. - Emetics are medications that induce vomiting. It may be used
within 4 hours after ingesting the chocolate. - Activated charcoal is used for ingestion greater than 4 hours
prior to treatment and still showing symptoms for toxicity. - Other medications may be used in severe cases.
It is best to keep chocolate away from your dog. Find a secure
place for the Valentine, Halloween and Christmas goodies. Resist
the temptation to share with your companions!
Disclaimer: Vista Animal Hospital makes sincere efforts to ensure the
accuracy of information posted on this website. VAH cannot and will not
be held responsible or liable for errors, inaccuracies or improper use of
information by the reader. Readers who rely on the information
contained on this web site or on other web sites accessed from this one
do so at their own risk and are advised to consult with their veterinarian
before acting on it.
*For More Information Please Contact Your Vet!*
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