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Onions found to be terrible for the health of this pet

Onions have been found to be bad for the health of house cats
Onions have been found to be bad for the health of house cats (Getty/iStock)
  • A study published in Discover Animal documented a rare case of severe anaemia in a housecat caused by onion ingestion.
  • The cat developed haemolytic anaemia, characterised by a significant reduction in red blood cells, leading to lethargy and loss of appetite.
  • Researchers identified specific cell-level changes, including large Heinz Bodies and "ghost cells," which had not been previously described in feline onion poisoning.
  • Onions are toxic to cats due to compounds like thiosulfate that damage red blood cells, and cats are particularly susceptible due to their unique metabolic profiles.
  • The cat was euthanised due to the severe prognosis and the owner's financial limitations, prompting researchers to urge greater awareness among pet owners about common toxic foods.
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