What are the symptoms of Chives poisoning in cats?

lethargy, vomiting, pale gums, increased heart rate, weakness

Chives

Q: Can cats eat Chives?

Dangerous: Never — allium family, toxic to cats. Chives are members of the allium family and contain the same thiosulfate compounds as onion and garlic. They cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia in cats. Chives are sometimes used as garnishes or in butter, so be vigilant about what your cat has access to. Even small amounts can cause problems for cats due to their heightened sensitivity to allium compounds. Source: ASPCA.

Dangerous

Verdict

Never — allium family, toxic to cats.

Toxic principle: thiosulfate

Source: ASPCA · Verified 2026-06-12

If your cat ate this

Cats hide symptoms — don't wait and see. Even small amounts of certain substances can be fatal to a cat. Act fast.

1. Call your veterinarian immediately
US — National hotline: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 aspca.org(24/7, Consultation fee may apply.)
US — National hotline: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 petpoisonhelpline.com(24/7, $89 per incident fee; also covers Canada.)
GB — National hotline: Animal PoisonLine 01202 509 000 animalpoisonline.co.uk(24/7, £35 per call (8am–8pm weekdays), £45 at other times.)
AU — National hotline: Animal Poisons Helpline 1300 869 738 animalpoisons.com.au(24/7)
NZ — National hotline: Animal Poisons Helpline 0800 869 738 poisons.co.nz(11am–7pm NZ time (currently being extended), Charges apply.)
CA — National hotline: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 petpoisonhelpline.com(24/7, $89 per incident fee.)

Verified 2026-08-06

Verdict

Chives are members of the allium family and contain the same thiosulfate compounds as onion and garlic. They cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia in cats. Chives are sometimes used as garnishes or in butter, so be vigilant about what your cat has access to. Even small amounts can cause problems for cats due to their heightened sensitivity to allium compounds.

Symptoms to watch for

• lethargy
• vomiting
• pale gums
• increased heart rate
• weakness

What to do

Contact your vet promptly, especially if large amounts were ingested. All allium plants (onion, garlic, chives, leeks, scallions) carry the same risk for cats.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 aspca.org