Can Cats Eat Chocolate?

Most pet owners know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but is the same thing true for cats? Unfortunately, many of the foods that are toxic to dogs are also toxic to cats, and this includes chocolate.

Chocolate is poisonous to cats, especially when eaten in high amounts. Similarly, cocoa powder and baker’s chocolate are more toxic to cats than milk chocolate.

In this article, we will be explaining everything that cat owners need to know about cats eating chocolate. This will include what you should do if your cat eats chocolate and what chocolate poisoning looks like in cats. Additionally, we will also be answering some other commonly asked questions about cats eating chocolate. Let’s get into it!

How Much Chocolate Will Hurt A Cat?

The answer to this question depends on what type of chocolate your cat has eaten. Here is a table describing how much and what type of chocolate can hurt a cat.

It is important to mention that dark and semi-sweet chocolate may increase or decrease in toxicity depending on the percentage of cocoa powder that it contains. The more cocoa powder that a chocolate product contains, the more toxic it will be to dogs and cats.

Is A Tiny Bit Of Chocolate Bad For Cats?

A tiny bit of baker’s chocolate or pure cocoa powder is toxic to cats. However, if your cat eats a tiny bit of a milk chocolate bar they are much less likely to get chocolate poisoning from that. Still, if your cat ingests any amount of chocolate, you should call your vet right away.

Can Cats Eat Chocolate-Flavored Foods?

Just like chocolate, chocolate-flavored foods should be off-limits for cats as well. This includes brownies, cake, muffins, donuts, chocolate milk, and ice cream to name a few.

What Happens If A Cat Eats A Brownie?

Brownies contain lots of chocolate, which means that cats are at risk of poisoning if they eat a brownie. The same goes for any baked goods such as cake, muffins, or donuts that contain chocolate.

Can My Cat Have Chocolate Milk?

Cats could be at risk of developing chocolate poisoning if they drink a considerable amount of chocolate milk. The same goes for hot cocoa or any other type of drink that contains chocolate.

Additionally, many cats are also lactose intolerant. This means that many cats will also get an upset stomach from the milk in chocolate milk if the beverage is made with cow’s milk.

Can Cats Lick Chocolate Ice Cream?

No, cats should not be licking chocolate ice cream. This is because chocolate ice cream contains both chocolate and dairy, both of which can be harmful to cats.

If your cat only just licks a small amount of chocolate ice cream by accident, then there is a fairly good chance that they will be fine. However, you should definitely not be feeding chocolate ice cream to your cat voluntarily.

How Long Does It Take For Chocolate To Affect A Cat?

Chocolate poisoning in cats can take as little as two hours and as long as 12 hours to set in. As a result, you may need to monitor your cat for a long time if they have eaten chocolate.

What Does Chocolate Poisoning Look Like in Cats?

Chocolate poisoning in cats has a variety of potential symptoms, and they can set in at any time between two hours and twelve hours after the chocolate has been ingested. Here are some of the symptoms of chocolate poisoning in cats that cat owners should be aware of.

• A reduced appetite
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Increased thirst and urination
• Restless behavior
• Increased heart rate and breathing rate
• Muscle stiffness
• Muscle tremors and seizures
• Coma and symptoms of shock

If you notice any of the above symptoms of chocolate poisoning in your cat then you should contact your vet or an emergency vet immediately. If neither your regular vet or the nearest emergency vet is available, then you should call a poison hotline.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Ate Chocolate?

If your cat has eaten some chocolate it is important not to panic. You should quickly analyze the situation and take note of what type of chocolate your cat has eaten and how much. Then, you should quickly examine your cat and see if they are showing any signs of illness.

Once you have a good idea of your cat’s situation you should call your vet immediately. If your regular vet is closed, then calling a poison hotline or your nearest emergency vet. When calling a veterinary professional you should answer their questions as clearly and exactly as possible. You should also follow their instructions exactly.

Chocolate poisoning can be treated in three different ways. If your cat has eaten chocolate, but chocolate poisoning has not set in yet, then most vets will induce vomiting. Please note: you should never try to induce a cat’s vomiting by yourself, and you should always have this done by a vet or veterinary professional. If this is not possible then most cats require emergency veterinary care and hospitalization.

Can Cats Recover From Chocolate Poisoning?

Yes, cats can recover from chocolate poisoning if they receive prompt medical attention. However, quick emergency care is necessary. Chocolate poisoning is a life threatening condition in cats that could result in death if left untreated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cats should never be fed chocolate or chocolate-flavored foods, regardless of the quantity. If you suspect your cat has eaten chocolate, reach out to your veterinarian immediately.

For cat parents in the Atlanta, GA region, The Village Vets has multiple locations to serve you and your pet. Visit us online to find a location near you!