Quantity
Because of their small size, even half an ounce of dark chocolate can be toxic to a cat. A tablespoon of cocoa powder is potentially lethal. Milk chocolate is less concentrated but still dangerous — any amount warrants a call to your vet.
Notes
Cats rarely seek out chocolate because they lack sweet taste receptors, but accidental exposure happens — chocolate milk spills, cocoa powder on counters, kids sharing treats. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. Baking chocolate and cocoa powder are by far the most dangerous forms.
Negative Signs
* Restlessness and hyperactivity (unusual for a cat)
* Vomiting and diarrhea
* Rapid breathing and panting
* Rapid or irregular heartbeat
* Muscle tremors and twitching
* Seizures
* Elevated body temperature
FAQ
Q: My cat licked some chocolate ice cream. Should I be worried?
A: Chocolate ice cream has relatively low theobromine, but for a small cat, even a moderate lick warrants monitoring. Watch for vomiting, restlessness, or rapid breathing. Call your vet if you see anything off.
Q: Why don't cats usually eat chocolate?
A: Cats lack the taste receptor for sweetness, so chocolate doesn't appeal to them the way it does to dogs. But some cats are curious enough to try it anyway, especially chocolate milk or cocoa-based liquids.
Alternatives
Cats don't crave sweets the way dogs do, so there's really no need for a chocolate substitute. A small piece of cooked chicken or a commercial cat treat is a much better reward.
Risks & Disclaimer
If your cat ate any amount of chocolate, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) right away. Cats are smaller than most dogs, so even a small amount of dark chocolate or cocoa powder can be an emergency. Note what type of chocolate and roughly how much before you call.
