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It’s spring time, and many of us are getting out into our yards to do a bit of gardening. We try to plan around our pets, and get plants that are non-toxic, and even pleasing for our animals to be around. We also try to use pet safe products in our gardens to keep our pets healthy. One area we sometimes fall short in is mulch. Can your mulch make your pet sick?

Most types of mulch are safe if ingested by an animal but there is one potentially toxic type of mulch made from the hulls of cocoa beans. With the new trend to waste less, this material might at first glance seem like a great idea for your garden. Cocoa shells are a byproduct of chocolate-making and contain ingredients similar to chocolate. When this type of mulch is fresh, it even has the aroma of chocolate and when ingested has effects similar to those of chocolate toxicity.

Cocoa shell mulch is popular because of its rich dark brown color that can darken more with time. Many mulches fade in color over the course of the year and need to be replaced to keep up their good looks. With this product, you have the opposite effect making it a popular choice. It is most commonly used to help prevent weed growth and maintain soil moisture. Additionally, many believe that it is great for the soil and found to kill slugs and deter termites.

What are Signs of Mulch Toxicity?

It has been shown that ingestion of large amounts of this fresh mulch can result in "chocolate toxicity". Depending on the toxicity of the mulch and the amount eaten, various problems can occur.

Common symptoms include vomiting and possibly diarrhea. These problems can work themselves out on their own, but it is always good to keep in contact with your veterinarian in case your pet ingested more of the mulch than you think.

Once toxic levels are reached in the body, the stimulant effect becomes apparent at which time you may notice restlessness, hyperactivity, muscle twitching, increased urination and possibly excessive panting. Heart rate and blood pressure levels may also be increased. Seizure activity may occur in severe cases. These signs can occur within a few hours of ingestion. Prompt veterinary care is recommended.

How Do You Diagnosis Mulch Toxicity?

Diagnosing cocoa mulch ingestion is generally based on the owner's witnessing or suspecting ingestion and on physical exam findings. It can be hard to actually catch your pet in the act of consuming the mulch, though the signs are consistent with "chocolate toxicity:" and include pets that are hyperactive, panting, have increased blood pressure and increased heart rates. Dehydration may also occur if there has been significant vomiting and diarrhea.

How Do You Treat Mulch Toxicity?

Treatment depends on the severity of the clinical signs and may include continuous intravenous fluid therapy, medications to help control vomiting and sedatives to counteract the stimulant effects of chocolate. Your vet will work with you to find the best solution for your pet.

Occasionally medication to reduce heart rate and high blood pressure is indicated.

Most pets treated for chocolate or mulch toxicity recover and return to normal within 24-48 hours of treatment. Keep an eye on your pet during this time to make sure that they do not.

What Can You Do at Home?

If you have curious pets that like to eat dirt and mulch, the best prevention is to avoid using this type of mulch. Most bags are clearly labeled with caution around animals and to avoid ingestion. If you have a garden service mulching your yard, determine first what type of mulch they plan to use. Communication can save a life.

To prevent toxicity; keep your pet away from the mulch until the chocolate aroma has gone. A thorough watering or heavy rainfall often reduces the potential toxicity. If you choose to go with this product regardless of possible side effects, take the time to prevent your animals from having access to it.

If you suspect your dog has consumed a toxic amount, remove your dog from the source of mulch and call your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian may recommend that you induce vomiting by oral administration of hydrogen peroxide. Transport your pet to your veterinarian immediately. Be calm and reassuring with your pet to not add to its distress.

Home care for pets that have ingested toxic levels of mulch is primarily aimed at reducing gastrointestinal upset and making certain that there is no access to additional mulch. Once the nausea is gone, your veterinarian may recommend a bland diet for a couple of days.

Watch for tremors, hyperactivity or seizures as these could be signs of serious poisoning. If your pet is not eating and drinking, continues to vomit, has persistent diarrhea or still seems hyperactive, consult your veterinarian for additional recommendations.

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