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hazard record

Is Chocolate toxic to pets?

Chocolate is reported to be toxic to Dog, Cat, Ferret. It is categorized as a food hazard. This page is a neutral reference and does not diagnose or treat any animal.

Informational reference only — not veterinary advice, and not a diagnosis. If you suspect your pet ingested chocolate, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control center immediately. Do not wait for signs to appear.

Also known as

cocoacacaodark chocolatebaking chocolatecocoa powder

Toxic principle

Theobromine & caffeine (methylxanthines)

Possible signs to watch

These are general signs reported in the literature, not a diagnostic checklist. Their absence does not mean an animal is unaffected.

vomitingdiarrhearestlessnessincreased heart ratetremorsseizures

Severity

Varies with type and amount

Notes

Darker and baking chocolate carry far more theobromine than milk chocolate, so risk scales with type and amount. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control line immediately.

Other toxic & harmful substances

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