Cocoa Shell Mulch, Dangerous? Yes, Says the ASPCA

We all get those scary emails that turn out to be internet hoaxes, but here is one that holds more than a grain of truth and is a serious warning about a potential threat to your companions health.

According to Snopes.com, the email goes something like this:

"Cocoa Mulch, which is sold by Home Depot, Foreman's Garden Supply and other Garden supply stores, contains a lethal ingredient called "Theobromine".

"It is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and it really attracts dogs. They will ingest this stuff and die. Several deaths already occurred in the last 2-3 weeks. Just a word of caution — check what you are using in your gardens and be aware of what your gardeners are using in your gardens. "

Unlike the email would have you believe, there are very few reported cases of death (Snopes confirms just one), but there is ample evidence that cocoa mulch does contain theobromine, the toxic-to-our-animals chemical found in chocolate, and does pose a threat to our furry companions.

In a reply to a question about cocoa shell mulch, the ASPCA writes:

"Dogs who consume enough cocoa bean shell mulch could potentially develop signs similar to that of chocolate poisoning, including vomiting and diarrhea. In cases where very large amounts of mulch have been consumed, muscle tremors or other more serious neurological signs could occur. To date, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center has not received any cases involving animal deaths due to cocoa mulch ingestion.

"One key point to remember is that some dogs, particularly those with indiscriminate eating habits, can be attracted to any kind of organic matter. If you have a dog who tends to be, shall we say, less than finicky, it is important that your dog not be left unsupervised or allowed in areas where such materials are being used."

In 2003 the ASPCA released this PDF article on the dangers of cocoa shell mulch and also recently released this news item concerning cocoa shell mulch: Pet Poison Alert: Cocoa Bean Mulch Can Be Toxic for Dogs

To learn more about companion friendly gardening, check out the ASPCA's Guide to Pet-Safe Gardening

You may also like to visit the ASPCA Poison Control Center to learn about other hazardous materials found around your home or launch the ASPCA interactive poison free home application.