Chocolate is a big no-no for our pets. While we enjoy its rich, sweet taste, it contains ingredients our dogs and cats can’t metabolise. If they sneak a bite, it can be harmful and potentially fatal for them. Familiarise yourself with the signs of chocolate poisoning and what to do if you suspect your pet has indulged in this tempting yet harmful treat. The culprits: Theobromine and Caffeine Chocolate contains two ingredients that are toxic to pets: theobromine and caffeine. Theobromine accounts for the majority of chocolate-related pet poisonings. Different types of chocolate have varying theobromine levels. Here's a rough breakdown: Unsweetened cocoa powder: Very high theobromine content Dark chocolate: High theobromine content Milk chocolate: Moderate theobromine content White chocolate: Low theobromine content Why chocolate is so dangerous When pets ingest theobromine and caffeine, it affects their central nervous system, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. The severity of symptoms depends on the ...

If you’re a mushroom lover, you might wonder if mushrooms are safe to feed your pet. Unfortunately, there’s no clear-cut answer, it depends on the type of mushroom. Generally, store-bought mushrooms are safe for dogs and cats. However, wild mushrooms discovered in your garden or during walks can be extremely poisonous to pets. Recognising the signs of mushroom poisoning and knowing what to do if you suspect your pet has eaten a toxic mushroom is crucial. Signs of mushroom poisoning The most common signs of mushroom poisoning include: Vomiting Bloody diarrhoea Abdominal pain Constricted pupils Trouble walking Lethargy The severity of symptoms depends on the type and amount of mushroom consumed and the pet’s size. Small pets are more vulnerable, as it takes fewer toxins to affect them. Immediate actions to take 1. Collect a sample If possible, take a sample of the mushroom your pet consumed. This can help ...