For sweet lovers, chocolate is an indulgence that can result in a few extra inches on the hips. However, even a small amount of chocolate to some cats and dogs can be devastating.
As well as a high fat content, chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine. These two stimulates, affect the central nervous system and the heart muscle, as well as urination frequency.
How much chocolate is toxic?
It depends on the type of chocolate and the weight of your pet. White chocolate has the least amount of stimulants and dark chocolate has the highest, of which cooking or baking chocolate will cause the most severe symptoms.
A lethal dose of theobromine is 80-200mg/kg, cooking or baking chocolate has 14.1mg/gram of theobromine, dark chocolate has 5.3mg/gram, milk chocolate has 1.4mg/gram, and white chocolate has very little real chocolate in it.
How long will it take before my pet shows signs of chocolate poisoning?
Between 30 minutes to 3 hours.
What signs do I look out for?
If your 20kg dog gets his/her paws on a single chocolate-chip cookie, it probably won't cause him/her serious problems. However, if he/she gobbles up enough of your favourite chocolate treats he/she may develop symptoms such as:-
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- increased urination
- restlessness
- hyperactivity
- muscle twitching
- and in severe cases or where left untreated seizures.
What should I do if I suspect poisoning?
The sooner you seek help the better off your pet will be. Seek veterinarian attention immediately.
Easter tips for you and your pet - the egg hunt!
Everyone in the family loves a treasure hunt and with the added incentive of chocolate eggs, there's no doubt your furry family members will love to be in on the action. If the "Easter Bunny is coming to visit" you, then keep your pets amused elsewhere. Once all of the eggs and treats have been accounted for, do a quick glance over the garden to make sure there are no treats left behind before allowing pets to return to their yard.
Friends and family
Easter time also brings with it an array of visitors. Kindly ask your friends and family to refrain from offering your pets chocolates, sweets or fatty treats (even sausages and fatty tidbits from the BBQ) during their stay.
It's Easter Sunday and I need a vet!
Phone us for opening times and emergency contact details. If we aren't open, our message machine will explain where to go in an emergency.
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