Richboro Veterinary Hospital
Call today!(215) 322-6776
See your pet on  Petly – As your pet's personal health page, Petly is a special
place for you and your pet. You're just one click away! – GO
TO PETLY
  • Home
  • Veterinary Services
  • Grooming
  • Articles
  • Reviews
  • Feedback
  • Contact Us
Home» Diseases » Chocolate Toxicity

Chocolate Toxicity

Posted by admin - December 23, 2015 - Diseases
0

Overview

Chocolate, in addition to having a high fat content, contains caffeine and theobromine. These two compounds are nervous system stimulants and can be toxic in high amounts. The levels of caffeine and theobromine vary between different types of chocolate. For example, white chocolate has the lowest concentration of stimulants and baking chocolate or cacao beans have the highest concentration.

Depending on the type of chocolate ingested and the amount eaten, various problems can occur. The high fat content in chocolate may result in vomiting and possibly diarrhea. Once toxic levels are eaten, the stimulant effect becomes apparent. Restlessness, hyperactivity, and possibly excessive panting may be seen. Heart rate and blood pressure levels may also be increased. Seizure activity may occur in severe cases.

Diagnosis and Treatment Notes:

  • Chocolate toxicity is generally diagnosed by a thorough history of chocolate exposure and physical examination.
  • Treatment depends on the type and amount of chocolate ingested, your individual pet, and your veterinarian. Pets receiving minor amounts of chocolate may not be treated. Pets ingesting toxic amounts of chocolate are treated with fluids, medications for vomiting and sedatives. Discuss treatment details when your pet is diagnosed with this condition.

What to Watch for*:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Hyperactivity
  • Restlessness
  • Panting
  • Seizure activity

Please notify us if you notice any of the above signs or if you have any questions!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Pet Health Network log-in button
google.png
bing.png
facebook.png
yelp.png

Location

Richboro Veterinary Hospital

1096 2nd Street Pike
Richboro, PA 18954

Phone: (215) 322-6776

For Emergency Service, Contact:

CARES - Center for Animal Referral and Emergency Services
2010 Cabot Blvd. West Suite D
Langhorne, PA 19047
(215) 750-2774

Get In Touch

Business Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday: Closed

© 2021 | Terms and Conditions