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Chocolate (Milk)

Pet toxin reference — educational information only.
Pet toxins

What to know

Chocolate (Milk) — toxicity in dogs and cats

Call your vetApplies to: dogs and cats.

Overview

Milk chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, though less dangerous than dark or baking chocolate. It still contains theobromine - roughly 60 mg per ounce compared to 450 mg per ounce in baking chocolate. The risk depends on how much your pet ate relative to their body weight. A large dog that eats a few M&Ms will likely be fine, but a small dog or cat that gets into a bag of milk chocolate candy needs veterinary attention. When in doubt, call your vet with the type of chocolate, the amount eaten, and your pet's weight.

Symptoms

Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased urination

Typical onset

6-12 hours

What to do

Contact your vet. Small amounts in large dogs may only cause GI upset, but large amounts or small dogs need urgent evaluation.

This page is educational and does not replace veterinary advice. If your pet may have been exposed, call UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

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Milk chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, though less dangerous than dark or baking chocolate. It still contains theobromine - roughly 60 mg per ounce compared to 450 mg per ounce in baking chocolate. The risk depends on how much your pet ate relative to their body weight. A large dog that eats a few M&Ms will likely be fine, but a small dog or cat that gets into a bag of milk chocolate candy needs veterinary attention. When in doubt, call your vet with the type of chocolate, the amount eaten, and your pet's weight.

Symptoms
Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased urination
Onset
6-12 hours
Recommended next step
Contact your vet. Small amounts in large dogs may only cause GI upset, but large amounts or small dogs need urgent evaluation.
This tool is informational only and does not replace veterinary advice. If ingestion may have happened, contact UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.