Are Limes Toxic to Pets?
Yes — limes are mildly toxic to cats. Yes — limes are mildly toxic to dogs.
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.
- Scientific name
- Citrus aurantiifolia
- Toxic compound
- Essential oils (limonene, linalool), psoralens
- Toxic parts
- Peel, seeds, leaves
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Skin irritation
- Sensitivity to light
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Skin irritation
- Sensitivity to light
What to do
If your cat ate limes
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate limes
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Lime peel and plant parts contain oils and psoralens that can cause stomach upset and skin reactions. The flesh is acidic. Keep limes away from pets.
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Frequently asked questions
Are limes toxic to cats?
Yes — limes are mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite.
Are limes toxic to dogs?
Yes — limes are mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite.
Which parts of limes are toxic?
Peel, seeds, leaves.
What makes limes toxic?
Essential oils (limonene, linalool), psoralens.