Indoors and out
Is Eucalyptus toxic to cats and dogs?
Eucalyptus species · also called Gum tree
Cats
ToxicDogs
Mildly toxicEucalyptus leaves and oil are toxic to pets. Chewing leaves causes drooling and vomiting; concentrated eucalyptus oil is more dangerous, especially for cats.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed.
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
- Never use eucalyptus oil on a pet.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Weakness
- Wobbliness or depression (oil)
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaves and essential oil
- Substance
- Eucalyptol (eucalyptus oil)
The details
Eucalyptus is popular in shower bundles and dried arrangements. The dried leaves are less potent than fresh, but essential-oil diffusers release fine droplets that cats can inhale or groom off their fur.
Pet-safe alternatives
- Rosemary
- BasilNon-toxic
-
Areca palmNon-toxic
Questions owners ask
Is Eucalyptus toxic to cats?
Yes — toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaves and essential oil.
Is Eucalyptus toxic to dogs?
Yes — mildly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaves and essential oil.
What happens if a pet eats eucalyptus?
drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, weakness, wobbliness or depression (oil).
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed. Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur. Never use eucalyptus oil on a pet.
What are pet-safe alternatives to eucalyptus?
Rosemary, Basil, Areca palm.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
