The Dangers of Onion Powder

Although our pets are family, we must use caution when feeding them from the family table. There are several ingredients that may be very healthy for us and can be toxic to our companion animals. Things like chocolate, raisins, medicines, and species of plants and flowers may be common sources of pet poisoning, but there are less known toxins that pet parents may be feeding their pets.

Whole foods, extracts, juices, and powders that are from the allium genus of the plant world are widely consumed in American homes and present a specific, and often deadly, danger to dogs and cats. They contain chemicals that can damage the red blood cells of our companion animals and cause them to burst leading to a condition called hemolytic anemia that can lead to death if not treated right away.

Plants belonging to the allium genus are:

• Onions
• Leeks
• Garlic
• Chives
• Shallots

Of particular concern is that the powdered or juiced version of garlic and onion can be in several foods that you may not suspect as being a danger to your pet. Onion and garlic can be hidden in many processed foods including:

• Seasoned meat
• Flavored crackers
• Flavored rice
• Seasoned frozen vegetables
• Pot pies
• Sauces
• Seasoned tomatoes
• Canned Soups and chilis
• Gravies

It is important to remember that powders are even more concentrated than the whole ingredients and thus it would be near impossible to determine a “safe amount” even if one does exist. In addition, cat's red blood cells are much more fragile, and a smaller amount can have a toxic effect.

The following are some of the symptoms of allium poisoning:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Red or brown urine
• Pale gums
• Rapid breathing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Jaundice
• Cold sensitivity
• Difficulty breathing
• Panting

It is always important to get your pet to the vet immediately if you believe they have ingested any poisonous or questionable ingredient. There can be a delay of several days after ingestion before clinical signs are displayed. Your vet can offer supportive treatments that increase the chance that your pet will recover including fluids, charcoal treatments, specific vitamin therapies, and blood transfusions.

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