My pet ate chocolate: what to do now
What to do after a dog or cat eats chocolate, which details matter, and when symptoms require emergency care.
Category: Urgent Care
Written by: Lili Veterinary Hospital Care Team
Reviewed by: Dr. Oby Okafor, DVM
Overview
<p>Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which pets process differently from people. Risk depends on the type and amount eaten, your pet's weight, and any other ingredients in the product. Dark chocolate, baking chocolate, and cocoa powder are especially concerning.</p><p>Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling. Save the wrapper and note when the chocolate was eaten. Raisins, macadamia nuts, and sugar-free sweeteners may add other risks.</p>
When to seek emergency care
<p>Go to an emergency veterinary hospital if your pet has tremors, seizures, collapse, marked agitation, trouble breathing, or a racing or irregular heartbeat. If a large or unknown amount was eaten, seek immediate professional advice even if your pet looks normal.</p><p>Call ahead while arranging transport. Follow the veterinarian's or poison specialist's instructions; the safest response depends on the product and the pet.</p>
What to do while you call
<p>Move remaining chocolate out of reach. Have your pet's approximate weight, the product name, cocoa percentage if listed, amount missing, and time of exposure ready. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435; a consultation fee may apply.</p><p>Do not induce vomiting, give medication, or try home remedies unless a veterinary professional tells you to. Even white chocolate can cause stomach upset because of its fat and sugar content.</p>
Frequently asked questions
Is dark chocolate worse than milk chocolate?
Generally yes. Darker chocolate and baking products contain more theobromine, but the amount eaten and your pet's size also matter. Call for an individual risk assessment.
What if the chocolate was sugar-free?
Tell the veterinary team immediately. Sugar-free products may contain xylitol, which is particularly dangerous to dogs, and fillings may contain other harmful ingredients.