LET’S TOAST TO WORLD NUTELLA DAY!
…Pardon the pun.
Nutella is (very eagerly) celebrated around the world, on February 5th. As a universal favourite spread among kids and adults alike, we’re all for a dedicated day to honour it!
But, before the celebrations get out of hand, be sure to know…
Your furry friend might also be plotting a stealthy taste-test, but here’s the hard truth: Nutella is dangerous for dogs and cats.
That chocolatey, hazelnut goodness may be a yummy treat for humans, but for pets, it’s a toxic recipe for a trip to the vet.
Why Nutella is toxic to pets
Nutella contains several ingredients that make it a serious no-no for cats and dogs:
❌ Chocolate (cocoa)
Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that pets metabolise very slowly. Even small amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, rapid heart rate, tremors or seizures….And in severe cases, life-threatening complications.
Dogs are generally more susceptible than cats, but no pet should risk it.
❌ Sugar and fats
Nutella is full of sugar and fat, which can upset your pet’s stomach. Dogs are at risk of pancreatitis, while cats gain nothing nutritionally from sugary treats.
❌ Hazelnuts and milk solids
Hazelnuts alone are not toxic, but when combined with chocolate and sugar, they’re unsafe. Most cats are also lactose intolerant, so the milk content adds another layer of risk.
How much is too much Nutella for pets?
Even a tiny smear can be risky for small dogs or kittens. A larger amount? That’s an emergency call to your vet. When it comes to chocolate, size, type of chocolate, and pet weight all matter.
If your cat or dog manages a nibble of Nutella, watch for symptoms like:
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Restlessness or hyperactivity
Rapid breathing or heart rate
Tremors or seizures
If any of these occur, call your vet or animal poison control immediately.
This is the only time Nutella and dogs go together!
Pet-safe alternatives to Nutella
In this case, sharing is not caring! For pets who seem drawn to your Nutella toast like a moth to a flame, serve up these pet-safe alternatives:
For dogs:
Plain peanut butter (xylitol-free only) – smearing some on a licking mat or in their Kong toy makes for a fun, longer lasting snack.
Apple slices, carrot sticks, banana chunks – they’ll drool over these tasty snacks, all safe for doggo consumption.
Dog-safe biscuits or chew treats – when in doubt, it’s always safer to go with a treat that’s made specifically for dogs.
For cats:
Small portions of cooked chicken or turkey – they’ll find these options way more satisfying anyway!
Tuna in springwater (occasionally) – tuna can contain mercury, and too much for cats can build up in their system and affect kidneys and nervous system function.
Cat-specific treats or paste – when in doubt, it’s always safer to go with a treat that’s made specifically for cats.
Think of it as swapping a sugar bomb for something tasty without the health risks.
Pet-proofing your Nutella at home:
✔️ Store jars of Nutella out of reach (remember, cats can get up to the top of the fridge with ease, so behind a closed-door pantry would be best).
✔️ Avoid dropping crumbs with Nutella on them, and don’t leave any Nutella snacks unattended (your dog or cat will take any second of distraction as an invitation).
✔️ Educate family members (and friends) about the risks of dogs and cats eating Nutella. It doesn’t take much for it to become a toxic accident.
✔️ Keep emergency vet contacts handy. Accidents happen so it’s about taking swift action.
So, no matter how big and hopeful their eyes are, staring at you while you’re enjoying a Nutella snack, do not share with your dog or cat!
