Onion / garlic / leek
Applies to: Dog · Cat
Damage red blood cells. Raw, cooked or powdered. Dose depends on size.
Possible symptoms
Weakness, dark urine, pale gums, vomiting, diarrhoea.
What to do
Call the vet. Do not ignore a meaningful amount.
Why it is a problem
Onions, garlic, leeks, chives and related plants contain compounds that damage red blood cells, which can lead to anaemia, and cats are particularly sensitive. Cooked, raw and powdered forms all count, and effects can appear days after eating, so a pet may seem fine at first.
What a vet may do
A vet may induce vomiting if recent, give activated charcoal and monitor blood values for several days, with supportive care if anaemia develops.
How to prevent it
Avoid giving leftovers, sauces and soups that contain them, and keep seasoning mixes and baby food (which can contain onion powder) out of reach.
Poisoning or emergency. PatiTools is not an emergency service. If signs are serious, go or call now.