Chocolate Toxicity About Chocolate

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Toxic doses of theobromine are reported to be as low as 20 mg/kg. Signs include:

• agitation
• hyperactivity
• gastrointestinal signs
(such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea - all which may smell like chocolate)

At doses > 40 mg/kg, cardiac signs can be seen:

• tachycardia
• hypertension
• arrhythmias

At doses > 60 mg/kg, neurologic signs can be seen:

• muscle tremors
• twitching
• possible seizures

Fatalities have been seen at around 200 mg/kg (approximately 100 mg/lb).

Theobromine and caffeine LD50 = 100 to 200mg/kg

Incidence/Prevalence ■ ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 2006: number 7 hazard encountered by pets ■ More common during the holiday season due to increased availability ■ Cocoa shell mulch; increasing in popularity for landscaping Systems Affected ■ Gastrointestinal—vomiting and diarrhea ■ Urologic—polyuria, polydipsia ■ Nervous—hyperactivity, CNS stimulation, seizures ■ Musculoskeletal—tremors, hyperreflexia ■ Cardiovascular—tachycardia, increased myocardial contractility