Can cats eat garlic?
No. Garlic is toxic to cats and is the most toxic member of the onion family for them. Raw, cooked, dried and powdered garlic can all damage red blood cells and cause anaemia. Call your vet if your cat eats any.
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Why
Garlic belongs to the allium family (the onion family). Alliums damage red blood cells and can lead to anaemia, and they also irritate the stomach and gut. Cats are the most sensitive species. All forms are poisonous to cats — raw, cooked, dried, powdered and liquid. Of the alliums, garlic is the most toxic for cats.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Red-coloured urine
- Faster or harder breathing
What to do
Contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away, even if your cat seems well — signs of anaemia can take several days to show. Note what your cat ate (raw, cooked, powder or a dish containing it), how much and when. Don't try to make your cat sick at home.
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Is cooked or powdered garlic safe for cats?
No. All forms are poisonous to cats, including raw, cooked, dried, powdered and liquid garlic. Be careful with leftovers, sauces, soups and gravy that may contain it.
Is garlic good for keeping fleas away?
Don't give garlic to your cat for any reason. All forms are poisonous to cats, and Blue Cross notes there is also concern that long-term use of garlic may cause problems. Ask your vet about safe flea treatment.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (C. Hayes, ASPCA APCC; full review Sept 2024)
- Onion, Garlic, Chive, and Leek Poisoning in Cats — VCA Animal Hospitals (R. Schmid, DVM, DABT, for Pet Poison Helpline)
- Onion and Garlic Poisoning in Cats — PDSA (May 2023)
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- Cats and human foods — Cats Protection
- Common cat poisons and toxins — Blue Cross
- Hidden dangers to cats — Blue Cross
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.