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Scallions / Green onions
Scallions / Green onions
Scallions, also known as green onions, are part of the Allium family along with onions, garlic, and chives. They are highly toxic to cats. All parts of the plant—the white bulb, the green stalks, and even the powdered form—are dangerous, whether raw or cooked. The toxicity comes from organosulfur compounds. In cats, these compounds damage hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This damage leads to the formation of clumps called Heinz bodies, which causes the red blood cells to be destroyed. This condition, called hemolytic anemia, means the cat's body cannot get the oxygen it needs to function. Signs of poisoning may not appear for a few days but include weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, and reddish-brown urine. Because scallions are common in many dishes, it's important to keep these foods away from cats. If you suspect your cat has eaten any, it is a medical emergency.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: N-propyl disulfide and organosulfur compounds (alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxides); all parts toxic including white bulb, green tops, and cooked forms
Mechanism: oxidative damage to haemoglobin creates Heinz bodies; the spleen destroys affected red blood cells, causing haemolytic anaemia
Symptoms: lethargy, weakness, pale or yellowish gums, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, reddish-brown urine; onset often delayed 3–5 days
Scallions are commonly used in Asian cooking — stir-fries, soups, dumplings — keep cats away from these foods
Contact your vet immediately if ingestion is suspected
Potentially Toxic Parts
Powder
Juice
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Tachypnea and Dyspnea (Breathing Difficulties)
Respiratory · After a lag of several days.
Lethargy, Weakness, and Depression
Neurological · After a lag of several days (typically 2 to 4 days).
Pale Mucous Membranes and Jaundice (Icterus)
Gastrointestinal · After a lag of several days.
Tachycardia (Rapid Heart Rate)
Cardiac · After a lag of several days.
Hemoglobinuria (Dark Urine)
Gastrointestinal · After a lag of several days.
Cold Sensitivity
Neurological · Several days after ingestion.
Because scallions (green onions) are members of the Allium genus
Metabolic
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Abdominal Pain, and Drooling
Gastrointestinal · Within 1 day of ingestion.
Allium Breath Odor
Gastrointestinal · Shortly after ingestion.
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.