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Many people enjoy onions on salad, in burgers, and more! Onions are extremely popular and can be eaten raw or used in a wide range of dishes. With so many people eating onions, there are bound to be pet parents who have curious cats. It’s possible a cat could find a piece of onion and eat it. But what happens if a cat eats onions?
Has your cat eaten an onion? Are you worried that the onion will make your cat sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your cat eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about onions and whether they can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
What are Onions?
Onions are the bulb of the onion plant; these plants belong to the Allium family of plants. They’re related to chives, garlic, and leeks. Onions are known for having a very strong smell and flavor. These bulbs come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. They can also vary in how strong they taste.
Not only are onions tasty, but they also have medicinal value. They’re thought to help prevent cancer, moderate blood pressure, and more.
While onions are safe for humans, what about cats? Can onions make a cat sick?
Onions & Cats
Unfortunately, onion is toxic to cats. Any part of the onion plant is also toxic to cats. It only takes a small amount to make a cat very sick.
Onions contain substances that can cause Heinz body anemia in cats, which can be deadly.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Onion Toxicity in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat eats onion:
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Pale colored gums
- Physical collapse
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Elevated heart rate
- Elevated respiratory rate
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Onion Toxicity in Cats
The vet may induce vomiting and use activated charcoal to remove the toxins from your cat’s system. They may also give your feline companion an IV for fluids and to administer medications.
For cats who are suffering from severe anemia, the vet may also have to treat her with blood transfusions. They will also treat any other symptoms as they arise.
The prognosis is best for cats who receive prompt medical treatment after eating onions. In the future, never give your cat food that contains onions and keep all onions out of her reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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