Food · 🐱 Cats
Can cats eat chocolate?
✕Toxic for cats
No. Chocolate is toxic to cats for the same reason as dogs, even though cats rarely eat much of it.
Why chocolate is dangerous
Theobromine and caffeine affect a cat’s heart and nervous system. Cats can’t taste sweetness, so they seldom go after chocolate, but they may lick cocoa, frosting or hot chocolate.
Signs of poisoning
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Fast heart rate
- Tremors or seizures in severe cases
How much is dangerous?
Small amounts of dark or baking chocolate can be dangerous because cats are small.
What to do right now
Call your vet or a pet poison line with the type and amount eaten.
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, Merck Veterinary Manual. This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet ate something and you’re worried, call your vet or a poison line right away.