Is chocolate poisonous to dogs and cats?
Poisonous to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous.
Use our dog chocolate toxicity calculator to see whether the amount your dog ate is likely to be dangerous.
For dogs, our symptom checker can work out whether the amount is likely to be dangerous. For cats, call your vet straight away, as cats are small and there is less known about safe amounts.
Why it's a problem
Chocolate contains theobromine, which pets can’t break down well. It affects the heart, nerves and gut. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it has. How dangerous it is depends on the type, the amount and your pet’s weight.
Signs to look out for
- Being sick or diarrhoea
- Restlessness, hyperactivity or panting
- Drinking and peeing more
- A racing heart
- Shaking, twitching or fits
Getting help
Call your own vet first. If they're closed, their phone line will tell you who covers out of hours. The Animal PoisonLine (01202 509 000, a charge applies) gives 24-hour advice to owners.
This page is general guidance, not a diagnosis. Every pet is different, so always follow your vet's advice.