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Can Cats Eat Onions?
Do not give onions to cats.
Are onions safe for cats?
Onions belong to the allium family with garlic, chives, leeks and shallots, and are used in a huge range of cooked dishes. Onions in any form are toxic to cats, who are even more sensitive than dogs. They damage red blood cells and can cause anemia.
What to do instead
- Check labels for onion, onion powder and garlic
- Keep onions and cooked dishes that contain them out of reach
- If your cat ate any, call your vet or a poison hotline, because signs can be delayed by days
- Choose a treat made for cats instead
What to avoid
- Raw, cooked, dried and powdered onions
- Garlic, chives, leeks and shallots, which are related and just as risky (garlic is stronger)
- Soups, sauces, stuffing, baby food and other foods made with onion
How many onions can my cat have?
There is no amount of onions that we can recommend for cats. Skip them entirely.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: Signs can appear several days after eating onion and may include weakness, pale gums, fast breathing, dark urine, vomiting and loss of appetite. Cats are especially sensitive, so call your vet even after a small amount.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat onions?
No. Onions should not be given to cats of any age.
What should I do if my cat ate onions?
Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your cat seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your cat's weight. Do not try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is there a safe amount of onions for my cat?
There is no amount of onions that we can recommend, and some cats react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Onions?