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Is Garlic toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Food | Last reviewed: April 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
TOXICCats
TOXICGarlic and dogs
Garlic contains the same thiosulfate compounds as onions but at 5x the concentration by weight. Garlic powder is especially dangerous. Do not use garlic-based flea remedies - the toxic dose is far too close to any 'therapeutic' dose.
Onset
1-5 days
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - diarrhoea
- - abdominal pain
- - lethargy
- - pale gums
- - haemolytic anaemia
What to do now
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435). Delayed onset means even symptom-free dogs need monitoring for several days.
Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.
Garlic and cats
Cats are even more sensitive than dogs. A clove of garlic is a meaningful dose for a cat. Garlic in baby food (sometimes used as a palate enhancer) is a common accidental source.
Onset
1-5 days
Symptoms
- - weakness
- - lethargy
- - pale gums
- - vomiting
- - haemolytic anaemia
What to do now
Contact your vet immediately. Garlic toxicity in cats can be severe and delayed.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - Merck Veterinary Manual
- - Pet Poison Helpline
Last reviewed: April 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.