Can dogs or cats eat white chocolate?

October 9, 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, dog parents—white chocolate is off-limits for your fur baby.

Here's the deal: White chocolate is basically a sugar and fat party, and that's not a bash your dog should attend. Too much sugar and fat can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis, which are definitely not on your pup's wish list.

And let's not forget about theobromine. While white chocolate has less of this toxic compound compared to dark chocolate, even a smidge can cause problems like vomiting, diarrhea, and a racing heart.

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, diarrhea, 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. Hold up, 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 bad news for cats. Their little bodies can't process these compounds well, which can lead to some serious issues like excessive thirst, diarrhea, and even seizures.

And don't forget, white chocolate is a fat bomb, and not the good kind. Too much fat can put your cat on the fast track to obesity or pancreatitis. We're talking inflammation of the pancreas, which is as unpleasant as it sounds.

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, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, pet 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 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).

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