What will happen to a rat if it eats chocolate? - briefly
The rat can suffer severe theobromine poisoning, leading to elevated heart rate, tremors, seizures, and potentially death. Symptoms develop within hours and demand prompt veterinary care.
What will happen to a rat if it eats chocolate? - in detail
Chocolate contains theobromine, a methylxanthine compound that rodents metabolize far more slowly than humans. When a rat ingests chocolate, the theobromine concentration in its bloodstream rises rapidly, producing a cascade of physiological effects.
The primary signs appear within 30 minutes to two hours:
- Elevated heart rate and irregular cardiac rhythm (tachycardia, arrhythmia).
- Increased respiratory rate and possible dyspnea.
- Restlessness, tremors, and muscle twitching due to central nervous system stimulation.
- Vomiting or reduced appetite as the gastrointestinal tract reacts to the toxin.
- Diuresis and possible dehydration from the diuretic action of theobromine.
If the dose exceeds the rat’s toxic threshold—approximately 100 mg theobromine per kilogram of body weight—severe outcomes may follow:
- Seizure activity caused by excessive neuronal excitation.
- Cardiac failure resulting from sustained arrhythmias.
- Metabolic acidosis as lactate accumulates during hypoxia.
- Potential death within 6–12 hours if untreated.
Treatment protocols focus on rapid decontamination and symptom management:
- Gastric lavage or activated charcoal administered within the first hour to limit absorption.
- Intravenous fluids to counteract dehydration and support renal clearance of theobromine.
- Anti‑arrhythmic agents (e.g., lidocaine) to stabilize cardiac rhythm.
- Benzodiazepines for seizure control.
- Continuous monitoring of heart rate, respiratory function, and blood chemistry.
Preventive measures include storing chocolate away from laboratory animals and using rodent‑specific diets that contain no methylxanthine additives.