Can cats eat chives?
Quick answer: No — chives is not safe for cats and should never be given.
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Onion-family herb that can cause anaemia even in small amounts.
Why
Chives are toxic to cats and should be avoided.
Can cats eat chives, and why?
Chives are toxic to cats and should be avoided. Onion-family herb that can cause anaemia even in small amounts.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
Onion-family herb that can cause anaemia even in small amounts.
If your cat has eaten chives, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
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Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat chives?
Unsafe. Chives are toxic to cats and should be avoided.
What happens if my cat eats chives?
Onion-family herb that can cause anaemia even in small amounts. If your cat has eaten chives, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is chives poisonous to cats?
Unsafe. Chives are toxic to cats and should be avoided.
Free printable: safe & toxic foods for cats
chives is just one food — get the full one-page checklist of what’s safe, fine in moderation, or dangerous for cats. Vet-sourced, yours to print and keep.
Check chives for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether cats can eat chives draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.