Rabbits like to pick and nibble on all sorts of vegetables and greens. While it is not common for a rabbit to eat scallions, you may be wondering if they are safe. Let’s take a look at what scallions are, whether or not they are safe, and what you should do if your rabbit has already consumed some.
What Are Scallions?
Scallions, also known as green onions, belong to the Allium family which includes garlic. A scallion is simply a standard onion that has been harvested very young and is used primarily for its greens. It offers a more subtle onion flavor and is mostly used as a garnish. Many people keep these in their kitchen or garden for round-the-year use in many different meals.
Are Scallions Safe For Rabbits?
The short answer is, no. Scallions belong to the Allium family and all varieties are considered to be highly toxic to rabbits.
The reason for this is that the compounds in onions and garlic can lead to anemia which is a lowering of red blood cells in the blood. When red blood cells become too low, the heart can stop. Furthermore, scallions are acidic and high in phosphorous and sugar, both can be problematic for rabbits. It is very important to ensure your rabbit never digests any sort of onion or garlic.
This means a rabbit should not eat any part of a scallion.
While it might not cause harm the first time, your rabbit will certainly experience health problems if they eat a lot of scallions. Fortunately, rabbits usually avoid scallions because they are not attracted to their smell. However, a hungry rabbit might eat anything.
What Happens if a Rabbit Eats Scallions?
A small amount may not show any symptoms or signs to indicate your rabbit is unwell. So long as it is flushed out and not re-consumed, a small amount should not do any long-term damage. However, if your rabbit has consumed a larger amount, it can cause serious health problems.
Since scallions will cause a reduction in your Rabbit’s red blood cells, it can immediately lead to dizziness and eventually lethargy. A lack or red blood cells is known as anemia. Below is a list of symptoms that your rabbit might experience if they eat scallions:
• Blood in the urine
• Salivation
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Fainting
• Loss of appetite
• Motor impairment
• Pale gums
Related topic: Can rabbits eat Creeping Charlie?
What Should I Do If My Rabbit Ate Scallions?
If you know for certain that your rabbit did eat scallions, you will want to contact your vet right away. You may want to induce vomiting as well so the onions are not fully digested. The easiest way to do this is to use 3% hydrogen peroxide.
You will want to ask your vet how much should be given and be sure to do it the right way so the liquid does not end up in the lungs. It is best to have a veterinarian walk you through this process if you have never done it before.
Depending on the amount of scallions that your rabbit ate, your vet might also recommend that you try to flush it through out of their system with a lot of water.