Chocolate for dogs: can I give my dog chocolate?
Beware! Chocolate is toxic to dogs due to the presence of theobromine (also present in coffee, although at a dose 4 times lower).
Cocoa contains a high percentage of theobromine, so the purer the chocolate, the higher its toxic potential.
Theobromine is metabolised in the liver and is not excreted by the kidneys, which means that the toxin is eliminated more slowly.
As a result, the substance can take up to 6 days to be eliminated after ingestion. In addition, there is a cumulative toxic effect, which means that if a dog eats a non-toxic dose of chocolate over the course of 2 or 3 days, all 3 doses can have a toxic effect!
What are the symptoms of the toxic effect of chocolate?
Symptoms can appear around 6 to 12 hours after ingestion and can persist for up to 3 days.
The most common symptoms are:
- Vomiting
- DiarrhoeaDog with diarrhoea, what now?
- Polydipsia
- Polyuria
It can develop into neurological signs such as:
- Tremours
- Convulsions
- Coma
- Haemorrhagic diarrhoea is also common in more severe poisoning.
There is no specific treatment or antidote for this type of poisoning.
Supportive treatment is provided, which may include inducing vomiting, gastric lavage, electrolyte replacement and hydration through fluid therapy.
If your pet has eaten chocolate, contact your veterinary surgeon for assistance.
Vomiting should be induced as soon as possible after ingesting chocolate on medical advice.
Other toxic foods: coffee, macadamias, grapes, raw potatoes, onions and avocados.
Vet.Point – Oeiras Veterinary Clinic
Emergency 24h | 927896112 – 211918923 | geral@vetpoint-ivl.com
