Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks are all part of the Allium family and are poisonous to both dogs and cats. Garlic is considered to be about five times as potent as onion. Certain breeds and species are more sensitive, including cats and Japanese breeds of dogs (e.g. Akita, Shiba Inu).

Toxic doses of onion and garlic can cause oxidative damage to the red blood cells, making the red blood cells more likely to rupture, and also gastroenteritis.

The following symptoms could indicate that your dog has eaten onions or garlic.

• Smell of onions or garlic on the breath

• Excessive salivation

• Irritation of the mouth

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Lethargy

• Signs of abdominal pain

• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)

• Panting (tachypnoea)

• Weakness

• Exercise intolerance

• Collapse

• Pale or bluish gums

Onion and garlic poisoning may have a delayed onset and clinical signs may not be apparent for several days.

If you think you have seen your pet eat any of the following - onions, garlic, chives, and leeks - please call us immediately on 01665 252 250. If this article has raised any concerns or questions, you can also email us at info@coquetvets.co.uk