1. What is Chocolate Toxicity?

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and other animals. The severity of toxicity depends on the type of chocolate, amount ingested, and the animal's weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the chocolate toxicity formula:

Where:

• Chocolate Amount — Amount of chocolate consumed (ounces)
• Theobromine Concentration — Theobromine content (mg per ounce)
• Weight — Animal's body weight (kilograms)

Explanation: The formula calculates the dose of theobromine per kilogram of body weight, which determines the toxicity risk.

3. Toxicity Risk Levels

Mild toxicity: 20-40 mg/kg - May cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness
Moderate toxicity: 40-60 mg/kg - Can cause hyperactivity, tremors, tachycardia
Severe toxicity: >60 mg/kg - May lead to seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, death

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the amount of chocolate consumed in ounces, theobromine concentration in mg/oz (see reference table below), and the animal's weight in kg. All values must be positive numbers.

Theobromine Reference Table:
Milk chocolate: ~44-58 mg/oz
Dark chocolate: ~130-138 mg/oz
Baking chocolate: ~393-450 mg/oz
White chocolate: ~0.25 mg/oz

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which animals are affected by chocolate toxicity?
A: Dogs are most commonly affected, but cats, birds, and other small animals can also be at risk.

Q2: How soon after ingestion do symptoms appear?
A: Symptoms typically appear within 6-12 hours after ingestion but can be delayed up to 24 hours.

Q3: What should I do if my pet ate chocolate?
A: Contact your veterinarian or pet poison control immediately with the calculated toxicity level.

Q4: Does this calculator account for caffeine toxicity?
A: No, this calculator only estimates theobromine toxicity. Chocolate also contains caffeine which contributes to toxicity.

Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: This provides an estimate. Individual sensitivity varies based on health status, age, and other factors.