Chocolate
Can dogs and cats eat chocolate?
Compare the dog and cat answers together, then open the full guide for the pet you are asking about.
If your pet ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
Call ASPCA: (888) 426-4435One food, two pets
What changes between dogs and cats?
Dogs and cats both have a toxic verdict.
The label matches, but the two answers are not interchangeable. Compare the bottom line below, then use the full guide for your pet.
- Bottom line differs
Chocolate safety for dogs
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, compounds dogs cannot break down efficiently, and even an ordinary amount can cause real illness.
Toxic principle: theobromine and caffeine (methylxanthines)
Watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- increased thirst
- restlessness
- panting
- elevated heart rate
- muscle tremors
- seizures
Sources
- ASPCA: What to Do If Your Pet Gets Into Chocolate
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Chocolate safety for cats
Cats are even more sensitive than dogs to the theobromine and caffeine in chocolate, even though they eat it less often because they cannot taste sweetness.
Toxic principle: theobromine and caffeine (methylxanthines)
Watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- increased thirst
- restlessness
- panting
- elevated heart rate
- muscle tremors
- seizures
Sources
- ASPCA: What to Do If Your Pet Gets Into Chocolate
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals
Reviewed 2026-07-12
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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