Is Halloween candy Toxic to Pets?
Yes — halloween candy is toxic to cats. Yes — halloween candy is toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Toxic compound
- Chocolate (theobromine), xylitol, wrappers
- Toxic parts
- Chocolate, sugar-free candy, wrappers
- Also known as
- trick or treat candy, candy bars
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Restlessness and hyperactivity
- Fast heart rate
- Panting
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Weakness or collapse (xylitol)
Dogs (toxic)
- Restlessness and hyperactivity
- Fast heart rate
- Panting
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Weakness or collapse (xylitol)
What to do
If your cat ate halloween candy
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your dog ate halloween candy
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
The two big dangers are chocolate and xylitol (in sugar-free candy and gum). Wrappers and lollipop sticks can also cause blockages. Store candy bags out of reach.
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Frequently asked questions
Is halloween candy toxic to cats?
Yes — halloween candy is toxic to cats. Common signs include restlessness and hyperactivity, fast heart rate, panting.
Is halloween candy toxic to dogs?
Yes — halloween candy is toxic to dogs. Common signs include restlessness and hyperactivity, fast heart rate, panting.
Which parts of halloween candy are toxic?
Chocolate, sugar-free candy, wrappers.
What makes halloween candy toxic?
Chocolate (theobromine), xylitol, wrappers.
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