This time of year is very exciting for families and pets, to go out trick-or-treating, with kids and pets dressed up as their favorite characters/people and going from house to house to collect candy.
It’s very exciting but also, owners should be aware of where the candy is being left after all the excitement.
What To Do
If you believe your pet has chocolate or xylitol poisoning
Contact your veterinarian, emergency clinic and poison control as soon as possible.
They will ask for the specific type of chocolate your pet consumed.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888)426-4435
Why Is Chocolate Toxic To Pets
Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine. Theobromine is the principal alkaloid of the cacao bean. When the chocolate is darker and more bitter, it is more dangerous for your dog. With that being said, each type of chocolate contains a different amount of theobromine in milligrams per ounce.
Weight definitely plays a factor in theobromine toxicity. If a 10-pound dog and a 50-pound dog consume the same amount of chocolate, the smaller dog will experience more severe signs of theobromine toxicity.
Signs Of Chocolate Toxicity
- Anxious or agitated behavior
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased body temperature
- Muscle Rigidity
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Increased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Advanced signs (cardiac failure, weakness, and coma)
What Is Xylitol Toxicity
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in plants, including fruits and vegetables. It has a sweet taste and is often used as a sugar substitute. Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener that is added to some foods.
Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.
This toxicity can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, or even death in dogs.
Some products that contain xylitol are:
- Breath mints
- Baked goods
- Cough syrup
- Chewable vitamins
- Mouthwash
- Toothpaste
- Some peanut and nut butters
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Dietary supplements
- Sugar-free desserts
Signs Of Xylitol Poisoning
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Lack of coordination or difficulty walking or standing
- Lethargy
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
If the case is severe, your pet may develop liver failure.