Can Dogs Eat Onion or Garlic? Australian Guide
Emergency
If your pet has eaten this, contact your local vet now. After hours, call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
What it means for dogs and cats
πΆ Dogs
Dangerous β do not feed
Onion, garlic, leek and chives contain Allium compounds that can damage red blood cells and lead to anaemia. Avoid them in every form, including powders, gravy and seasoned food; contact your vet promptly after ingestion.
π± Cats
Dangerous β do not feed
Onion and garlic contain Allium compounds that can damage red blood cells and lead to anaemia; cats are particularly susceptible. Avoid scraps, sauces and powdered ingredients, and contact your vet promptly if your cat may have eaten them.
Where Australian pets run into it
At an Australian sausage sizzle or barbecue, onion, gravy and marinades may end up in scraps. Clear plates and keep seasoned food and bins inaccessible.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Pale gums
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Rapid breathing
What to do
Contact your local vet promptly and describe the food and time eaten. Call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 for Australian advice.
What to say when you call
My (dog/cat) weighs about __ kg. About __ hours ago they ate __ (how much). Symptoms so far: __.
Common questions
My dog ate onion from a sausage β what now?
Contact your local vet promptly and explain what was eaten and when; cooked onion and sauces can still be harmful.
Can cats eat garlic powder in gravy?
No. Garlic powder and gravy are ingredients to avoid; contact your vet promptly if your cat has eaten them.
Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets β ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- Common Dog Poisons: Risks, Symptoms & Emergency Care Tips β Animal Poisons Helpline
- What are common household dangers for pets? β RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase
- Onions β Animal Poisons Helpline
Content checked against these sources on 2026-10-10.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your local vet.