Your Pets and Candy

You may want to share your favorite candy with your pet, but this is not recommended.  In fact, some foods and related products may even be harmful for your pet.  It is best to keep such foods well out of the reach of inquisitive pets.

If you suspect your pet has eaten any of the following, please note the amount ingested and contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Cocoa and Chocolate

Cocoa and chocolate products contain theobromine, a compound which occurs naturally in cocoa beans, and small amounts of caffeine. Theobromine is chemically similar to caffeine.

While safe for humans, other species such as dogs lack the specific enzyme needed to metabolize theobromine. Theobromine can cause restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, and hyperactivity. In severe cases, theobromine can cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and even death for animals.

Individual dogs vary in their sensitivity to theobromine. As little as 1/2 to 1 ounce of baking chocolate or 4 to 10 ounces of milk chocolate can be harmful for small dogs, such as Chihuahuas and toy poodles. Since dark chocolate contains more theobromine than milk chocolate, harmful effects can result from smaller quantities. It also may be dangerous for other domestic animals to ingest theobromine.
The theobromine content of specific HERSHEY’S chocolate products is listed on the Chocolate Products Theobromine page.

Cocoa Mulch

The Hershey Company does not manufacture or market cocoa mulch. However, we periodically receive questions concerning cocoa mulch and pets.

Cocoa mulch consists of cocoa bean shells. Although not a food or a food ingredient, cocoa mulch, like chocolate products, contains naturally occurring theobromine and small amounts of caffeine. As previously mentioned, animals like dogs are often sensitive to the theobromine, which can lead to toxicity and even death in some animals. 

Dogs and other animals are often attracted by the pleasant aroma from cocoa shell mulch.  Because it can be harmful to animals if ingested, think carefully about where you choose to apply the mulch and supervise your pets.  These steps can effectively eliminate the possibility of animal consumption in a quantity sufficient to cause adverse affects.  If your pet has eaten cocoa shell mulch, immediately contact your veterinarian.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts have been reported to cause adverse effects in some animals, including dogs.  For more information, please read the ASPCA article “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets” [http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/people-foods.html ]

Raisins

Raisins (and grapes) also have been reported to cause adverse effects in dogs. For more information, please read the ASPCA article “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets”  [http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/people-foods.html ]

Xylitol

Xylitol occurs naturally in some fruits and vegetables. It is used as a sweetener in sugar free and reduced sugar foods including chewing gum and candy. ICE BREAKERS ICE CUBES Chewing Gum is made with xylitol.

Xylitol causes insulin release in animals, which leads to hypoglycemia, depression, vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures. Elevated liver enzymes and liver failure have also been associated with some cases of xylitol consumption.

Links

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals - Animal Poison Control Center http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/