Merck Vet Chocolate Toxicity Calculator

Theobromine Dose Equation:

\[ \text{Theobromine Dose (mg/kg)} = \frac{\text{Chocolate Amount (g)} \times \text{Theobromine (mg/g)}}{\text{Body Weight (kg)}} \]

Theobromine Dose:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Theobromine Toxicity?

Theobromine toxicity occurs when animals, particularly dogs, consume chocolate containing theobromine. This compound can cause serious health issues including vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in severe cases.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Theobromine Dose equation:

\[ \text{Theobromine Dose (mg/kg)} = \frac{\text{Chocolate Amount (g)} \times \text{Theobromine (mg/g)}}{\text{Body Weight (kg)}} \]

Where:

Chocolate Amount — Amount of chocolate consumed in grams
Theobromine Content — Theobromine concentration in mg per gram of chocolate
Body Weight — Animal's body weight in kilograms

Explanation: This equation calculates the dose of theobromine per kilogram of body weight, which helps determine the toxicity level and appropriate treatment.

3. Importance of Theobromine Dose Calculation

Details: Accurate theobromine dose calculation is crucial for assessing toxicity risk, determining appropriate veterinary intervention, and preventing serious health complications in animals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter chocolate amount in grams, theobromine content in mg/g, and body weight in kilograms. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are toxic levels of theobromine for dogs?
A: Mild symptoms may appear at 20 mg/kg, more severe symptoms at 40-50 mg/kg, and seizures/death can occur at doses over 60 mg/kg.

Q2: How do I know the theobromine content of different chocolates?
A: Dark chocolate has the highest content (5-15 mg/g), milk chocolate has less (1-2 mg/g), and white chocolate has minimal amounts.

Q3: What should I do if my pet consumes chocolate?
A: Contact your veterinarian immediately with the calculated dose information. Do not induce vomiting without veterinary guidance.

Q4: Are some animals more susceptible to theobromine toxicity?
A: Yes, dogs are particularly sensitive due to their slower metabolism of theobromine compared to humans.

Q5: How quickly do symptoms appear after ingestion?
A: Symptoms typically appear within 6-12 hours after ingestion and can last up to 72 hours due to the long half-life of theobromine.