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Garlic as well as other plants in the same family (onions, chives, leeks) can be toxic to both dogs and cats. Many pet owners realize that onions are toxic to dogs and cats, but few are aware that garlic is even more toxic (up to five times more!). The symptoms and effects depend upon how much has been ingested as well as the sensitivity of the pet to the plant material.
What exactly does garlic do to the pet? Garlic and onions both result in damage to the red blood cells, causing them to be likely to rupture (oxidation) with a resultant anemia developing. As red blood cells carry oxygen, the reduction in their number caused by the rupture produced by the toxicosis leads to some serious clinical signs, which may even result in death (in my thirty plus years as a veterinarian I have never seen a pet die from this, but the risk is real and dependant upon the amount ingested). Symptoms of the anemia include weakness and lethargy due to the low red blood cell count with reduced oxygen carrying capacity. The gums will also be pale and is an obvious visible sign of the anemia. Due to the low level of oxygen the pet will have an increased respiratory rate, labored breathing, and unable to tolerate exercise. Symptoms may take a few days to develop but if severe anemia does occur, the pet could collapse and possibly die.
In addition to the rupture of the red blood cells, ingestion of garlic/onion can lead to irritation of the digestive tract producing gastroenteritis. Symptoms of gastroenteritis may include oral irritation, drooling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
The severity of the symptoms depend upon the amount ingested and typically if a small amount is taken in the risk for toxicosis is rare. But if the pet is especially sensitive to garlic/onions, even a small amount could produce symptoms of toxicosis.
If your pet would ingest garlic/onion, the best course of action would be to contact your veterinarian. In addition, you should be vigilant for the development of any of the aforementioned symptoms. The toxicosis can be treated successfully, but if ignored could lead to serious complications.
What else can I help you with?
What animal eats garlic but it is a carnivore?
What herbeivor eats garlic
If the mamma dog eats garlic will it hurt the nursing puppies?
Yes, if a mother dog eats garlic, it can be harmful to nursing puppies. Garlic contains compounds that can be toxic to dogs in large amounts, especially to puppies. It can cause damage to their red blood cells and lead to anemia. It is best to avoid giving garlic to dogs, especially nursing mothers.
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