Are Essential Oils Toxic to Cats?
Yes — essential oils are toxic to cats.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Toxic parts
Oils, diffusers, liquid potpourri
Toxic compound
Phenols and terpenes
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Cats lack liver enzymes to break down many oils. Oils like tea tree, wintergreen, pine, peppermint and cinnamon can cause drooling, wobbliness and liver damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Are essential oils toxic to cats?
Yes — essential oils are toxic to cats. Cats lack liver enzymes to break down many oils. Oils like tea tree, wintergreen, pine, peppermint and cinnamon can cause drooling, wobbliness and liver damage.
What are the symptoms of essential oils poisoning in cats?
Vomiting. Diarrhea. Drooling. Reduced appetite.
What should I do if my cat ate essential oils?
Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to. Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate. Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
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