Caffeine Toxicity in Pets

Is caffeine poisonous to pets?

Yes, caffeine is a chemical that can be toxic to pets. Pets do not need coffee to get their day going, as many humans do. And if they need a rest later, they do not feel guilty about settling down for a nap instead of an afternoon cup of joe.

What are some sources of caffeine?

Many foods and drinks in your cupboards contain caffeine. Most households have coffee in the pantry, which is a key source of caffeine, but many teas and sodas contain caffeine too. And, of course, energy or sports drinks in the fridge often contain a lot of caffeine. Other common sources of caffeine include diet pills, gum, coffee grounds, over-the-counter pain medication combinations, cold medications, energy boosting products, and even some herbal supplements.

Chocolate also contains caffeine, along with theobromine, a close chemical relative of caffeine. Coffee-flavored ice creams and liqueurs are other tasty sources of caffeine. Chocolate-covered coffee beans or large amounts of chocolate pack a double threat for pets.

What are the symptoms of caffeine poisoning?

Caffeine is a stimulant, and most of the signs of poisoning are due to the stimulant effects of caffeine. Think about how you feel after three cups of coffee, and you will get a good idea of what your dog or cat would experience after lapping up a spilled energy drink.

Pets that consume caffeine may have an increased heart rate and become hyperactive. They can get jittery and restless and do not want to lie still. They may also pace or vocalize excessively.

Caffeine causes cardiac and central nervous system stimulation, which can be dangerous. Caffeine also affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause stomach upset.  Pets may also need to urinate more. Left untreated, large ingestions of caffeine can even be fatal to dogs and cats.

How much caffeine is too much?

Dogs and cats are more sensitive to caffeine than humans are. While a sip of hot coffee or iced tea probably will not adversely affect most pets, ingestion of one or two caffeine pills can be fatal for small dogs and cats.

Symptoms can start within a few hours of ingestion and can last up to several days. Many caffeine-containing products also include additional ingredients, like sugars or other stimulants like guarana that can add to the harmful effects.

The degree of toxicity is determined by the amount of caffeine ingested as well as the size and health status of the pet. A large, young, healthy dog will likely have a better outcome than a small, old dog with kidney problems. Regardless of age or size, caffeine can damage major organs like the liver, heart, kidneys, and central nervous system.

How is caffeine poisoning treated?

As with all poisoning cases, early intervention is key to successful treatment. Call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison center, at 1-800-213-6680 as soon as you realize your pet has consumed caffeine. Your pet’s veterinarian may start with decontamination and provide supportive therapy based on the pet’s clinical signs. Be prepared to have your pet stay in the hospital throughout the day with mild cases, and possibly for a few days in severe cases, to ensure adequate treatment and observation.

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.