There’s been an internet rumor going around a long time about the “deadly” mulch made of cocoa shells and it’s effect on pets. Here are a few facts about this organic ground cover.

It’s made out of the shells of cocoa beans, and it can be an attractive and nice-smelling alternative to other mulches. However, there are some concerns from veterinarians that the product can be harmful to pets. While the rumors about the product are not completely true, there are some dangers.

It can contain theobromine, the ingredient in chocolate that can be deadly to dogs and cats. However, some brands say they have removed the ingredient, and it doesn’t appear that there has as many pet deaths as viral emails would indicate. Large amounts of the product can cause serious illness in dogs and cats.

Vets and the ASPCA recommend not using the product if you have pets. The sweet chocolaty smell is attractive to dogs and cats, and, like chocolate, there is a potential your pet will get sick if it eats this mulch. And, also like chocolate, it can be potentially deadly.

If you plan to use the cocoa mulch, it’s best to use it if you don’t have pets and in a space that can’t be accessed by neighbors pets. It can be a good mulching product. The advantages of the product is its sweet smell, the fact that the shells get darker with age instead of bleaching, it retains moisture well, and it is organic and healthy for your plants. It’s best to research the brands available, and get it from a good garden center with informed sales people who can answer any questions you have about a particular brand’s safety.

If you have pets, there are plenty of other safer options. And if you notice your pets trying to eat this mulch in a neighbor’s yard, it would be best to prevent them from doing so. The ASPCA also points out that you should be wary of your pets ingesting large amounts of anything outside, and not to leave your pets unattended or let them wander around outside without you.

Learn more about cocoa mulch:

• ASPCA: Cocoa Mulch
• KNDO TV: recent news story
• About.com: cocoa mulch email rumor
• FAQ about cocoa mulch from one manufacturer

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