SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bird-onion-family-anemia

What can onions, garlic, leeks and chives do to a bird?

They can damage red blood cells and cause severe anemia.

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Why: These foods belong to the same plant family. University of Illinois veterinarians say they can change red blood cells and cause severe anemia in birds.

Huh, didn't know that: Pale mouth or eye tissues, low energy and breathing trouble can be warning signs.

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Why did the parrot avoid the onion? It did not want a tear-able snack.
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References

Answer: Damage red blood cells. These foods belong to the same plant family. University of Illinois veterinarians say they can change red blood cells and cause severe anemia in birds.

  1. University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine, Bad for Birds vetmed.illinois.edu/pet-health-columns/bad-for-birds-prevent-poisoning-in-avian-pets
    changes in the red blood cells can lead to severe anemias, or deficiencies in red blood cells.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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