Symptoms Of Chocolate Toxicity In Dogs
When your dog decides to eat human food unpermitted, such as a bag of your M&Ms, it may cause more trouble than you'd think. Alarmingly, symptoms of chocolate toxicity don't show up until roughly six to twelve hours after consumption. If you know they snuck a toxic snack, but you aren't sure how much they ate, look out for any symptoms that may point to chocolate toxicity. The darker the chocolate is, the higher the levels of theobromine are in it, which is the harmful component of chocolate to dogs. If they ingested chocolate, a trip to the veterinarian may very well be underway. After all, you will want to get ahead of the issue before your dog suffers much bigger consequences.
With this in mind, get the details on the symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs now.
Vomiting
Vomiting may very well be the result of chocolate toxicity in dogs because it upsets their normal breakdown as the theobromine takes its toll on the digestive system. However, before this symptom begins, you may notice discomfort such as gurgling noises from the abdomen, whimpering or whining, and pacing or restlessness. Excessive drooling is also a significant precursor, so be on the lookout for increased saliva production. Once throwing up commences, it is essential to get your dog to the veterinarian, as they can become severely dehydrated by repeatedly losing water. While veterinarians cannot eliminate the ailment, they can provide symptom management.
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Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common symptom of chocolate toxicity in dogs. Because the chocolate cannot correctly be consumed and passed throughout a dog's gastrointestinal tract, it will irritate their bowel lining. As with throwing up, before diarrhea begins, you will likely get many warning signs. Your dog may act extremely uncomfortable, showing visible signs of an upset stomach or irritation. If you hear them whining and roving around as if they are in pain, also be on the lookout for this symptom to follow. Being prepared can help you avoid messes in your home as well as provide comfort for them. Dehydration is a common theme here as well, so be prepared to visit your dog's veterinarian.
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Abnormal Heart Rate
If higher levels of chocolate are consumed, or if the chocolate was very dark, it may cause an increase in previously discussed symptoms. It may also, unfortunately, lead to more intense ones such as an abnormal heart rate. You may notice your dog pacing or becoming increasingly frantic. Take note of any rapid heart rate you may be able to detect when checking. This abnormal heartrate, otherwise known as cardiac arrhythmia, could lead to more significant issues for your dog, like cardiac arrest. Even before this symptom ever comes into play, you may be able to induce vomiting at home under the guidance of your veterinarian or the pet poison control hotline.
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Increased Urination
Increased urination, otherwise known as polyuria, is another telltale sign of chocolate toxicity you may notice straight away in your dog. This occurs due to a reaction to the chemicals in the chocolate, which mimics diuretics as it drains water from the body. However, because it is induced in a harmful way, it can cause severe dehydration, especially in combination with other symptoms. In addition to the overall increase in urination, there can also be blood in the urine. If you notice any blood in your dog's urine, consult your veterinarian or pet poison control immediately so you can work diligently to reduce the reaction.
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Seizures And Tremors
In more severe cases of chocolate toxicity in dogs, seizures and tremors can present themselves. Tremors are sometimes a precursor to a seizure where your dog may involuntarily display a series of muscle contractions and relaxation. During a seizure, you may notice your dog looking unsteady, dazed, or zoned out—as if they aren't coherent. In other dogs, a seizure may include violent shaking, salivating, and muscle twitching. Complications from each include hypoglycemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and hypothermia. Tremors and seizures should be taken incredibly seriously, as death could be an impending result. Anytime your dog encounters uncontrolled movements, they require immediate veterinary attention. If you know your dog ingested chocolate, it is best to consult professionals for advice before symptoms even begin.
