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Chocolate Toxicity Formula:
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Chocolate toxicity occurs when animals (especially dogs) consume chocolate containing theobromine, a compound they metabolize slowly. The toxicity level depends on the amount of chocolate consumed, its theobromine content, and the animal's weight.
The calculator uses the chocolate toxicity formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the dose of theobromine per kilogram of body weight, which determines the toxicity level.
Mild toxicity: 20 mg/kg - May cause vomiting, diarrhea
Moderate toxicity: 40 mg/kg - Can cause cardiac effects
Severe toxicity: 60 mg/kg - May cause seizures, death
Note: These are general guidelines - individual sensitivity varies.
Tips: Enter the amount of chocolate consumed in grams, the theobromine content (see reference values below), and the animal's weight in kilograms. All values must be positive numbers.
Theobromine Reference Values:
Milk chocolate: ~2.4 mg/g
Dark chocolate: ~5.5 mg/g
Baking chocolate: ~16 mg/g
Cocoa powder: ~26 mg/g
Q1: Which animals are most at risk?
A: Dogs are most susceptible due to slow theobromine metabolism. Cats are less likely to eat chocolate but can also be affected.
Q2: How quickly do symptoms appear?
A: Symptoms typically appear within 6-12 hours but can take up to 24 hours in some cases.
Q3: What should I do if my pet ate chocolate?
A: Contact your veterinarian immediately with the calculated toxicity level and your pet's details.
Q4: Are some chocolates more dangerous than others?
A: Yes, darker chocolates and cocoa powder contain much higher theobromine levels than milk chocolate.
Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides a good estimate, but individual factors like health status and chocolate type may affect actual toxicity.