Yes, onion plants are toxic to cats.
Belonging to the Allium genus, an onion is a plant that’s commonly grown as a vegetable. As long, fan-shaped leaves grow over the soil, a bulb takes form underground. Also called bulb onion and common onion, the widely cultivated plant can be served raw or cooked.
Though safe for humans to eat, onions are one of the most dangerous plants to feed to your cat. In fact, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Pet Poison Helpline both consider it harmful due to the N-propyl disulfide found throughout its bulbs, stems, and flowers. Wag! adds that just a tiny portion can cause unwanted effects in cats.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats onion plants: Contact your veterinarian immediately. Take your cat away from the plant and place her in a confined space for careful monitoring. Also, remove any remaining onion parts found on her fur, paws, or mouth.
Because of the N-propyl disulfide, your cat’s red blood cells may become fragile, break down, and rupture. When this happens, it’ll be difficult for oxygen to spread throughout your cat’s body. Additionally, she may experience excess drooling, pale gums, vomiting, blood in urine, weakness, lethargy, panting, and diarrhea. High heart rate, high respiratory rate, stomach pain, and collapse may also occur.
In summary: Never let your cat anywhere near onion bulbs in the kitchen or onion plants grown in your backyard as these are highly toxic for them. Before you consider adding a new herb to your garden or bringing home a bouquet of flowers, check out the lists by PetMD, ASPCA, and Pet Poison Helpline. They’ll help you determine which ones are toxic or safe for cats.
References:
22 Plants That Are Poisonous for Cats
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