Is Garlic Toxic to Cats?
Yes — garlic is toxic to cats.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness or low energy
- Pale gums
- Fast breathing or heart rate
- Red or brown urine (anemia can appear several days later)
Toxic parts
Raw, cooked and powdered garlic
Toxic compound
Organosulfur compounds (thiosulfates)
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Garlic is several times more potent than onion. Signs of anemia may not appear for days.
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Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat garlic?
No. Yes — garlic is toxic to cats.
Is garlic toxic to cats?
Yes — garlic is toxic to cats. Garlic is several times more potent than onion. Signs of anemia may not appear for days.
What are the symptoms of garlic poisoning in cats?
Vomiting. Diarrhea. Weakness or low energy. Pale gums. Fast breathing or heart rate. Red or brown urine (anemia can appear several days later).
What should I do if my cat ate garlic?
Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to. Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate. Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
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