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Can Cats Eat Chocolate?
Do not give chocolate to cats.
Is chocolate safe for cats?
Chocolate is made from cocoa. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain the most of the compounds that make it dangerous. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats too. Cats rarely eat it, but any amount eaten should be taken seriously.
What to do instead
- Store chocolate, cocoa powder and chocolate baked goods out of reach
- If your cat ate any, call your vet or a poison hotline and tell them the type of chocolate, how much, and your cat's weight
- Keep the wrapper so you can read the ingredients
- Choose a treat made for cats instead
What to avoid
- Dark, semi-sweet and baking chocolate, and cocoa powder (the highest risk)
- Chocolate mixed with raisins, macadamia nuts or coffee
- Cocoa bean mulch used in gardens
How much chocolate can my cat have?
There is no amount of chocolate that we can recommend for cats. Skip it entirely.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: Signs can include vomiting, restlessness, a fast heart rate, tremors and seizures. The darker the chocolate, the smaller the amount that can cause a problem.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat chocolate?
No. Chocolate should not be given to cats of any age.
What should I do if my cat ate chocolate?
Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your cat seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your cat's weight. Do not try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is there a safe amount of chocolate for my cat?
There is no amount of chocolate that we can recommend, and some cats react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?