Chocolate comes from the seed of the cacao tree and its usage dates back to 1100 BC. The cacao bean is native to Mexico, Central and South America. It originated being used as a beverage, usually with a bitter taste, and later evolved as a food ingredient. Today it is one of the most popular foods in the world.
There are several types: milk, dark and white. Milk is the most consumed especially during the holidays. Dark contains large amounts of antioxidants and is believed to have some health benefits. White has no cocoa solids which contain theobromine and can be consumed by animals.
Chocolate, other than white, contains theobromine which acts a diuretic and heart stimulant and provides some health benefits to humans. This compound can cause a cat's heart to race, beat irregularly or cause loss of body fluids. Un-sweetened baking chocolate contains the highest amount of this compound, dark the next highest and milk the least. It cannot clear theobromine from its system as fast as a human. Increasing levels can be fatal.
The food is high in calories and can contribute to obesity. An animal can lose its taste for normal food and develop dental problems. Increased urine production, diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, depression and muscle tremors are other effects of it eating this food.
There is no antidote if it is affected by eating chocolate. A veterinarian may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal or medications, use intubation and artificial ventilation and monitor its heart. The sooner it is treated, the better the chance of no permanent damage.
It is safer not to feed an animal food normally consumed by humans. Onions and garlic can destroy its red blood cells. Raisins and grapes can cause kidney problems. Tomatoes and raw potatoes can cause stomach problems. Best bet is to give a cat food that is meant for it.
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