are onions toxic to cats

Onions are toxic to cats in all forms—raw, cooked, powdered, or dehydrated. Even a small amount can cause serious health issues, including stomach upset, damage to red blood cells, anemia, and potentially life-threatening organ damage. Onion toxicity occurs due to a compound called N-propyl disulfide, which causes red blood cells to rupture, reducing oxygen delivery in the body. Symptoms of onion poisoning in cats include vomiting, lethargy, pale gums, and dark urine. If a cat ingests any amount of onion, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately for prompt treatment, which may include inducing vomiting and supportive care like IV fluids or blood transfusions. Onion powder is even more potent and dangerous for cats than fresh onion. Because of these risks, no form of onion should ever be given to cats or found in their diet.