As Valentine's Day approaches (almost every day for many of us : )), you may be making plans to enjoy chocolate and candy. These sweet treats make us happy, but they can pose serious dangers to our pets. Understanding what may be fun for us can be harmful to our furry friends is important during this fun holiday.
“As pet owners, we understand the temptation to share treats with your pet. They look at you with adorable eyes and beg for a bite of whatever they eat. But responsible pets… “As parents, we must resist the urge to share chocolate or candy with our pets,” says Jenny Marin, assistant clinical professor at Virginia Tech's Virginia Maryland School of Veterinary Medicine.
Marin shares the following advice for pet owners to understand why boxes of Valentine's Day chocolates and candy can be harmful to pets.
Q: What is harmful about chocolate and candy for pets?
“The main danger that chocolate poses to pets, especially dogs, is a compound called theobromine. Theobromine is a stimulant that affects the nervous and cardiovascular systems of pets. Although humans can metabolize theobromine efficiently, , pets are unable to do so. As a result, harmful substances build up in their bodies, which can lead to serious health complications.”
“Candy, on the other hand, contains large amounts of sugar, which can cause obesity, dental problems, and diabetes in pets. Some candies contain xylitol, which can be very toxic to pets. It also contains artificial sweeteners, such as chocolate. Just like chocolate, pets cannot metabolize xylitol, which can cause their blood sugar levels to drop rapidly and cause liver failure.”
Q: What are the health risks of chocolate to pets?
“The health risks of chocolate to pets can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount ingested and the size of the pet. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in pets include restlessness, excessive thirst, and abdominal discomfort. These include muscle tremors, arrhythmia, hyperthermia, seizures, and in severe cases, death.
“Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate contain the highest amounts of theobromine and pose the most significant risk to pets. The effects of chocolate poisoning may take several hours to show.”
“Dogs are most affected because they tend to eat anything they can find, but cats and other pets are also at risk.”
Q: What are the dangers of candy and artificial sweeteners for pets?
“Like chocolate, candies and artificial sweeteners can pose serious health risks to pets. In severe cases, it can cause symptoms such as liver failure. Even small amounts of xylitol can be fatal to pets. Sugar-free candy, gum, baked goods, and peanut butter Included in many brands.
Q: What should I do if my pet eats chocolate or candy?
“If your dog only eats one or two small pieces of milk chocolate, it is unlikely that he will have a toxic reaction, especially if he is a large dog. However, if your dog eats only one or two small pieces of milk chocolate, it is unlikely that he will have a toxic reaction. The situation becomes even more concerning if a bundle of chocolate is stolen. The amount of chocolate, the type of chocolate and, especially if it's high quality dark chocolate, the size of the dog are all important.”
“If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate or candy, it's important to act quickly. The first step is to call one of the pet poison hotlines, such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. One alternative and valuable resource is the Pet Poison Helpline.”
“If you decide to see a veterinarian, please provide as much information as possible about what your pet has ingested. This will help the veterinarian determine the best course of action.” Depending on the severity, your pet may need to stay in a clinic or hospital for monitoring and treatment.”
Marin says the best way to protect your pet from the dangers of chocolate and candy is prevention. She offers the following tips to prevent pet accidents and store treats safely.
- Keep all chocolates and candies out of reach of pets. Store in a high cabinet or locked drawer.
- Please dispose of wrapping paper properly. Pets may be attracted to the odor and eat the wrapper, causing choking or intestinal blockage.
- If you give or receive chocolates or candies as a gift, please keep them safe before and after opening.
Jenny Mullin is a veterinarian and clinical assistant professor at Virginia Tech's Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. From 2022, he will be a faculty member in Community Practice and Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the School of Veterinary Medicine. Her research interests are in general practice small animal dentistry, low-stress veterinary visits, fear-free handling, and providing quality preventive care. Click here for details.
