Warning To Pet Owners Surrounds A Special Mulch You Might Use In Your Garden

Consumer Specialist Jee-Yun Lee

But it has another side effect you may not want – it could be poisonous to your pet.

Dogs, who will eat just about anything, are attracted by the pleasant smell of the substance. And cats don’t mind digging in on occasion, either.

But in this case scents can be deceiving.

While chocolate isn’t good for canines at any time, that’s not the real problem with cocoa mulch. Instead it’s an ingredient known as theobromine, which is poisonous to animals.

How can you tell if your pet has eaten it?

A lot depends on how much was ingested.

A small amount can cause a bad stomach upset, serious but not lethal.

But vets warn a larger mulch meal can cause your pet to act restless or excited, a condition that can quickly progress to tremors and seizures – and ultimately, death.

If your dog or cat experiences any of these symptoms or you think they’ve sampled the product, take them to your veterinarian immediately.

And if you’re buying any mulch for your lawn or garden, check the label for the ingredients. Some manufacturers claim they’re now making a type that’s theobromine-free, although you still may not want to take a chance. If in doubt, choose something else.