Can dogs or cats eat white chocolate?

9 October 2023
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat white chocolate?

So you're indulging in some white chocolate, and your dog is giving you those "Can I have a bite?" eyes. Sorry—white chocolate is off-limits.

Here's the deal: white chocolate is full of sugar and fat, and that's something your dog won't like after it's wolfed down. Too much sugar and fat can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis, which are not on your dog's wish list.

White chocolate also contains theobromine, and even a smidge can cause problems like vomiting, diarrhoea, and a racing heart for dogs. While it contains less than dark chocolate, it still has too much. It also contains caffeine, which is bad news for dogs.

So, as tempting as it is to share the sweetness, keep the white chocolate to yourself. Your dog has plenty of dog-friendly treats that won't lead to a vet visit.

If your dog eats white chocolate and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, dog insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat white chocolate?

So you're unwrapping a piece of white chocolate, and your cat is eyeing it like it's the last treat on Earth. Sorry, cat parents—white chocolate is a no-go for your feline friend.

Let's break it down.

White chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, two things that are harmful to cats. Their little bodies can't process these compounds well, which can lead to some serious issues like excessive thirst, diarrhoea, and even seizures.

White chocolate is also full of sugar and fat. Too much can put your cat on the fast track to obesity or pancreatitis.

Bottom line: white chocolate is a treat best enjoyed by humans, not cats. If you're looking to spoil your kitty, stick to cat-approved treats.

If your cat eats white chocolate and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, cat insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Information purposes only

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Pet poison emergency protocol

If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the Animal Poison Line (01202 50 9000).

Food safety statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet