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Many of us use green onions to flavor our favorite foods. They can be seen in all types of dishes, on sandwiches, or even in salads! But what happens if your cat eats an onion?
Has your cat eaten an onion? Are you worried the onion will make your cat sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it’s scary when our feline fur babies eat things they shouldn’t.
In this article, we’ll take a look at green onions and whether or not they can make your cat sick. Let’s get started!
What are Green Onions?
Green onions go by many names. You may see them referred to as spring onions, scallions, or even salad onions. Green onions are actually “baby” onions that have not yet matured. They have long, green leaves on top, with small, white bulbs on the bottom.
While we can enjoy green onions, are they safe for cats? Can green onions make a cat sick?
Green Onions & Cats
All onions, including green onions, are toxic to cats. Even a small amount can make your cat very sick. Onions belong to the family of plants which also includes garlic, chives, and leeks. Onions cause the breakdown of red blood cells in cats, which leads to a serious form of anemia. Symptoms may not be seen straight away as it can take time for the effects of the anemia to be seen.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Green Onion Toxicity in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat has eaten some green onion:
- Panting
- Elevated heart rate
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, call the vet immediately. This is a medical emergency. If you know for sure your cat has eaten green onions, then don’t wait for these symptoms to appear. Call the vet right now for help before they become sick.
Treatment of Green Onion Toxicity in Cats
When you reach the vet, they will perform a complete physical exam on your cat. This will also include lab work and possibly other tests.
There’s no specific treatment for green onion toxicity in cats; however, the vet will treat your cat with supportive measures. These may include an IV for fluids and to make it easy to administer medications needed to treat symptoms.
In some cases, a cat may also require a blood transfusion to build up their low red blood cell supply.
The great news is that cats who receive prompt medical care have a good chance of making a complete recovery.
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Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
This article has been reviewed and approved by an independent Veterinarian: Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!
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