Have you ever wondered ‘can cats eat chocolate?’ After all, it’s the most delicious, creamy, yummy treat around. As owners we want to share that joy with our furry friends.
Is it safe to do that? Do they even want it?
Let’s take a closer look:
Can Cats Eat Chocolate?
Cats are highly unlikely to steal your chocolate anyway, at least to the same degree sneaky pooches will. The fact is, that if they do, chocolate is as bad for cats as it is for dogs.
Chocolate and any cocoa contains an ingredient called theobromine which can be metabolized with ease by us humans. The same cannot be said for cats who have no ability to metabolize this ingredient at all.
The amount it would take to make any one cat very ill is impossible to estimate because there are so many different factors. In reality, you don’t really want your cat consuming any chocolate at all. Too much leads to a toxic buildup that could kill your cat.
Suspect Chocolate Poisoning In Cats?
Every cat is different in how they are able to metabolize theobromine. It can depend on their weight, size, health and the kind of chocolate they have eaten. Dark chocolate has far more theobromine in it than milk or white chocolate.
If you have seen your cat eat chocolate, you need to contact a vet immediately. If you suspect they have eaten chocolate but you are not sure, check for the following symptoms of chocolate poisoning:
- Rigid muscles
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Restlessness
- A fever
- Rapid heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Tremors
If these symptoms are present you need to get your cat to a vet ASAP.
If you think your cat might have eaten chocolate but you aren’t sure, keep them inside for 24 hours so you can keep an eye on them.
In the event they need to go to the vet because of chocolate poisoning it is important to get them seen as soon as you can. This is because your vet may be able to induce vomiting in your cat to get rid of the substance before it causes toxicity in the cat’s liver. You should not try to do this yourself as it could be dangerous.
You should try to give as much information as possible about what the cat has consumed so the vet knows what the situation is. You should take with you the packet of chocolate if you have it, which will provide ingredients information, as well as let the vet know how much has been consumed.
An understanding of your cats current weight and size is also useful for your initial phone chat with your vet to understand the risk your cat is facing.
Veterinary Treatment For Chocolate Poisoning In Cats
When you take your cat to the vet for chocolate poisoning they will likely:
- Perform a complete examination of your cat
- Take the cats temperature
- Take a urine sample if possible
- Tale a blood sample
- Perform an ECG
Once the toxicity has taken effect all your vet can do is treat the symptoms in various ways. This can include certain drug administration, liver functionality observation, IV fluids and temperature control.
If My Cat Can’t Have Chocolate, What Can They Have?
Your cat is unlikely to even want to try chocolate as it just isn’t appealing to them. That being said, cats will always work hard to surprise us!
With that in mind, always keep chocolate out of your cats reach and instead, give them the appropriate cat food, kitten food and cat treats made for their specific needs.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate? More Questions Answered
If the above information hasn’t answered your question, here are more common questions and answers on the topic:
Can Cats Eat White Chocolate?
Theobromine is present in all chocolate, even white chocolate, so it is not suitable for cats.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate Cake?
Chocolate cake is not an appropriate food for cats who may be tempted by the buttercream. The cocoa and chocolate present in the cake will contain theobromine, making it dangerous for cats to consume.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate Pudding?
Chocolate pudding contains theobromine which is toxic to cats so they should not be allowed to eat it.
Can Cats Eat Dark Chocolate?
Dark chocolate and plain baking chocolate is the worst for cats because it has the most theobromine, making it exceptionally toxic to your cat. You should never feed your cat dark chocolate.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate Milk?
Cats may be attracted to lap up chocolate milk because it is creamy. Unfortunately, not only is the theobromine in chocolate milk toxic to cats, but the lactose in cows milk is also very bad for them. Chocolate milk is not a suitable treat for your cat.
How Much Chocolate Will Kill A Cat?
It depends on the type of chocolate consumed, the cat’s metabolism, size and health.
How Long After Cats Eat Chocolate Will Symptoms Show?
In most cats the symptoms will show within 2-4 hours but it can take 24 hours in some cats.
The fact is that chocolate is not appropriate for cats in any form. If your cat eats it accidentally, get veterinary advice right away.
In the meantime, keep chocolate well away from cats and feed them kitty-appropriate treats, as well as non-food centered attention like petting and playing. Despite their sour look, and holier than thou disposition, they love you plenty and don’t need chocolate to seal the deal.