The Dangers of Chocolate

Stay informed with expert articles and guidance from Ambassador Animal Hospital, Greenville’s locally owned veterinary provider. Discover answers to common pet health questions, learn about advanced care options, and support your furry family’s lifelong well-being.

June 6, 2026

6

Savor Life’s Simple Pleasures.

I want to make an effort to slow down, reflect, and spend more time on the simple pursuits that brought me such joy as a kitten. Unspooling an entire roll of toilet paper. Playing with boxes. These are the delights of youth that I miss the most.

WHY IS CHOCOLATE TOXIC TO PETS?

Made from the beans of the cacao tree, chocolate contains two substances that can harm dogs and cats.

  • Caffeine
  • Theobromine


WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

Symptoms that a pet has ingested a toxic amount of chocolate usually occur within 6 to 12 hours and vary by amount ingested.


  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Arrhythmia
  • Excessive Thirst
  • Racing Heartbeat
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Death


HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

No amount of chocolate is safe for dogs. Even a little nibble can make a pet sick, especially for smaller pups. The amounts shown here can cause seizures or worse.

Vintage bakery ingredient conversion chart on dark background with white text and measurements in cups and ounces

If you think your cat or dog has ingested chocolate, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA’ Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 right away.

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