The Specific Alkaloid in Chocolate That Makes it Deadly to Dogs and Cats

In a cautionary episode of SciShow, the energetic new host Olivia Gordon explained why theobromine, an alkaloidal component in chocolate, is safe for most humans but deadly to dogs (and cats) due to their inability to metabolize the alkaloid quickly enough before it turns to poison.

It's hard to say 'no' to puppy eyes, so here's some information you can share with your pets next time you unwrap that chocolate bar

• The Specific Ingredient That Makes Chocolate So Potentially Lethal for Dogs and Other Animals
• The Caffeine-Like Chemical That Makes Chocolate Toxic to Dogs and Cats
• You Shall Not Pass Dog, A Compilation of Dogs Afraid to Cross the Path of a Cat