Is Eucalyptus Oil Toxic to Cats?

Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol (1,8-cineole) which is toxic to pets. Both ingestion and inhalation of concentrated eucalyptus can cause poisoning. Fresh eucalyptus branches (popular in home décor) also pose a risk.

Quick Answer

Yes, eucalyptus oil is toxic to cats. Highly toxic — especially when ingested or diffused near pets. Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol (1,8-cineole) which is toxic to pets. Both ingestion and inhalation of concentrated eucalyptus can cause poisoning. Fresh eucalyptus branches (popular in home décor) also pose a risk. Watch for symptoms like drooling and vomiting & diarrhea.

Emergency

If your cat has ingested eucalyptus oil, contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately.

Symptoms of Eucalyptus Oil Poisoning

Drooling and vomiting
Diarrhea
Depression and weakness
Seizures (in severe cases)
Difficulty breathing

Typical Timeline

Symptoms can appear within 1-3 hours of ingestion or prolonged inhalation.

Treatment Options

Remove from exposure area
Do not induce vomiting
Contact vet for assessment
IV fluids and supportive care for ingestion

Prevention Tips

Keep eucalyptus branches out of reach
Don't diffuse eucalyptus oil around pets
Be aware of eucalyptus in shower bundles (steam releases the oil)
Cats and birds are the most sensitive

Other Toxins Dangerous to Catss

🐕 Dogs version →🐰 Rabbits version →🐦 Birds version →🐹 Hamsters version →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is eucalyptus oil toxic to cats?▼

Highly toxic — especially when ingested or diffused near pets. Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol (1,8-cineole) which is toxic to pets. Both ingestion and inhalation of concentrated eucalyptus can cause poisoning. Fresh eucalyptus branches (popular in home décor) also pose a risk.

What happens if my cat is exposed to eucalyptus oil?▼

Symptoms include: Drooling and vomiting; Diarrhea; Depression and weakness. Symptoms can appear within 1-3 hours of ingestion or prolonged inhalation.

What should I do if my cat ingested eucalyptus oil?▼

Remove from exposure area. Do not induce vomiting. Contact vet for assessment.

How can I protect my cat from eucalyptus oil?▼

Keep eucalyptus branches out of reach. Don't diffuse eucalyptus oil around pets. Be aware of eucalyptus in shower bundles (steam releases the oil). Cats and birds are the most sensitive.