Drinks and Stimulants
Is Caffeine safe for dogs and cats?
Caffeine is unsafe for dogs and cats and can affect the heart and nervous system.
If your pet already ate this and seems sick, contact a veterinarian or
pet poison hotline now. Bring the package label, amount eaten, and the
time of exposure if you have them.
Quick verdict
| Dogs | Toxic |
|---|---|
| Cats | Toxic |
| Risk level | High |
For dogs
Coffee, tea, energy drinks, caffeine pills, and chocolate products can be dangerous for dogs.
For cats
Cats should not ingest caffeine. Even small products can matter because cats are small.
Symptoms to watch for
Restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and severe illness can occur.
What to do
If your pet ate or drank a caffeine product, contact a veterinarian or pet poison hotline with the product strength and amount.
Sources
- ASPCA - People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center)
- FDA - Potentially Dangerous Items for Your Pet (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
- Merck Veterinary Manual - Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Last reviewed: .