Is Vanilla extract Toxic to Pets?
Yes — vanilla extract is toxic to cats. Yes — vanilla extract is 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.
- Toxic compound
- Ethanol
- Toxic parts
- Extract bottle
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Wobbliness
- Sedation
- Low body temperature
- Slow breathing
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Wobbliness
- Sedation
- Low body temperature
- Slow breathing
What to do
If your cat ate vanilla extract
- 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.
If your dog ate vanilla extract
- 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 dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Pure vanilla extract is roughly a third alcohol, so a pet drinking from a bottle can get alcohol poisoning. Baked goods with a little vanilla are not the concern.
Is your pet covered for emergency vet bills?
Compare pet insurance quotes →
Frequently asked questions
Is vanilla extract toxic to cats?
Yes — vanilla extract is toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, wobbliness, sedation.
Is vanilla extract toxic to dogs?
Yes — vanilla extract is toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, wobbliness, sedation.
Which parts of vanilla extract are toxic?
Extract bottle.
What makes vanilla extract toxic?
Ethanol.