Dog Ate Coffee? Caffeine Risks for Dogs & Cats (Australia)
Emergency
If your pet has eaten this, contact your local vet now. After hours, call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
What it means for dogs and cats
πΆ Dogs
Dangerous β do not feed
Caffeine is a methylxanthine stimulant that can disrupt a dogβs heart and nervous system. Keep coffee, tea, energy products and caffeine tablets away; contact your vet immediately after suspected access because the product and individual exposure matter.
π± Cats
Dangerous β do not feed
Caffeine is a methylxanthine stimulant that can disrupt a catβs heart and nervous system. Keep coffee, tea and caffeine products away, and contact your vet promptly if your cat may have ingested any.
Where Australian pets run into it
Coffee grounds, takeaway cups and energy drinks are everyday items in Australian homes and parks. Empty cups and secure used grounds before pets can investigate them.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Panting
- Hyperactivity
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Tremors
What to do
Contact your local vet immediately and keep the packaging or product details. Call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 for Australian poisoning advice.
What to say when you call
My (dog/cat) weighs about __ kg. About __ hours ago they ate __ (how much). Symptoms so far: __.
Common questions
Can my dog lick coffee?
Caffeine is toxic to dogs; contact your vet immediately after suspected access.
My cat ate coffee grounds β what should I do?
Caffeine is toxic to cats too. Call your vet promptly and share what product was involved.
Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets β ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- What are common household dangers for pets? β RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase
Content checked against these sources on 2026-10-10.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your local vet.