Is Cocoa Shell Mulch Dangerous for Pets?

Problems of Cocoa Shell Mulch

• Cocoa shell mulch is a byproduct of the cocoa production industry. The shells are ground for use as landscape mulch because it has an attractive appearance and a pleasing aroma. This same aroma, however, may entice dogs to taste the mulch. The problem is that the shells contain the same chemical, theobromine, that is in chocolate and which is poisonous to dogs, according to Michigan State University horticulturist Bert Cregg. Though the chemical is in much smaller concentration than in chocolate, it still can create health problems when ingested.

Incidences of Cocoa Shell Poisoning

• Reports of reactions in dogs that have ingested cocoa shell mulch have been reported for several years. These reports generally describe transient symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea or trembling that passes in a few hours. Some reports of death from cocoa shell poisoning have made the rounds of Internet rumor mills, but no official reports of death have come to the notice of veterinary organizations. Regardless, pet experts recommend supervision when allowing dogs to be around cocoa shell mulch materials in yards and landscapes. The highly aromatic nature of the material can cause even dogs who ordinarily do not eat unusual items to try the mulch for good taste.

Symptoms of Cocoa Shell Poisoning

• Some symptoms of methylxanthine toxicosis from ingestion of cocoa shell mulch include vomiting, muscle tremors, diarrhea, hyperactivity and tachycardia, which means rapid heartbeat. Though many of these symptoms can escalate to the point of seizures and possible death, a very large amount of the material would have to be ingested, according to Dr. Steve Hansen, quoted on the American Veterinary Medical Association site.

Suggested Alternatives to Cocoa Shell Mulch

• Because so many alternatives are available as mulch material, pet owners should choose other types to ensure that their pets are not tempted to consume cocoa shell mulch. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests using pine, cedar or hemlock mulch as alternatives. They also recommend that you supervise pets that are indiscriminate eaters to prevent them from ingesting yard materials like mulch.