Can a cat eat onions? - briefly
No, cats should not eat onions. Onions contain disulfides and thiosulphates that can damage a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts of onion can be harmful to felines.
Can a cat eat onions? - in detail
Cats and onions do not mix well, as onions contain compounds that are toxic to felines. This issue is primarily due to the presence of disulfides and thiosulfates in onions, which can cause damage to a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. When cats consume onions, these compounds disrupt the normal functioning of their red blood cells by breaking down the hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component within the cells. This disruption results in a condition known as Heinz body anemia, which is characterized by the formation of small clumps or "Heinz bodies" inside the red blood cells. These abnormal cells are then removed from circulation prematurely, leading to a decrease in the overall number of functional red blood cells and consequently causing anemia.
Symptoms of onion toxicity in cats may include lethargy, weakness, rapid breathing, and in severe cases, even collapse or death. It is crucial to note that even small amounts of onions can be harmful to cats, as their bodies are more sensitive to these compounds than human bodies. Additionally, the toxic effects may not be immediate; they can accumulate over time with repeated exposure to small quantities. Therefore, it is best to keep onions and any foods containing them out of reach of cats to ensure their safety and well-being. If a cat has ingested onions, prompt veterinary care should be sought to manage the potential toxicity and minimize long-term health impacts.