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How many chive leaves from my windowsill plant are toxic to a 3 kg indoor cat?

Cats · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

There is no safe amount — even a few leaves can be toxic to a cat. Chives, like onions and garlic, contain compounds that damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. For a small 3 kg cat, the risk is significant with any ingestion. Watch for signs like lethargy, pale gums, or rapid breathing, and contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately if you suspect any amount was eaten.

Leek & chives — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Cats · full breakdown on the linked food page

Toxic, same family as onion and garlic. Causes red blood cell damage and anemia.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Leek & chives should not be given to cats at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Garlic and onion damage a pet's red blood cells and can bring on anaemia. Signs are often delayed for several days, so looking fine straight afterwards does not rule it out.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Leek & chives food facts page.

Open the full food page: Leek & chives food facts →