GettyImages/sanjagrujic As Americans indulge in seasonal sweets, pets face a hidden danger. According to data from Trupanion, nearly 40 percent of all chocolate toxicity-related claims occur in October, November, and December—peaking sharply during the holidays. Since 2020, more than 8,300 pets insured by Trupanion have reportedly been treated for chocolate toxicity, representing an 18 percent increase in cases over the past five years. December remains the riskiest month, with a 96 percent spike in toxicity-related illnesses compared to November. California recorded the highest number of chocolate toxicity claims in the United States at 1,040, followed by New York (518), Massachusetts (485), and Florida (467). Trupanion’s findings suggest the numbers may be far higher nationwide, as the report reflects only its 1.1 million insured pets. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats because it contains caffeine and theobromine, stimulants that can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and even death in severe cases. Symptoms typically appear within two to 12 hours of ingestion. Trupanion’s truInsights initiative highlights these data to raise awareness among pet owners and veterinary professionals. The company urges pet parents to keep chocolate and other sweets well out of reach during the festive season. For more information, visit the Trupanion website.
