Is DEET Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
DEET (bug repellent) is moderately toxic to cats and dogs, causing staggering, vomiting, and seizures at higher exposures. Call a vet if ingested.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is DEET?
DEET (bug repellent) is moderately toxic to cats and dogs, causing staggering, vomiting, and seizures at higher exposures. Call a vet if ingested.
Also known as: N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, bug spray, insect repellent, off, deep woods, repellent.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting and drooling
- Ataxia (staggering or "walking drunk")
- Muscle tremors
- In high exposures: seizures
🐈 In Cats
- Drooling and vomiting
- Ataxia (staggering and disorientation)
- Muscle tremors
- In high exposures: seizures
What to Do If Ingested
- Note the DEET concentration and amount ingested or absorbed.
- If skin exposure, bathe with mild soap and water (wear gloves).
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline for guidance.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Any DEET product was ingested
- Staggering, tremors, or disorientation
- Seizures
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use bug spray (DEET) on my pet?
No. DEET products are made for humans, not pets, and can cause drooling, staggering, tremors, and seizures in dogs and cats. Use only veterinarian-approved flea and tick preventives on pets. If a pet licks or absorbs DEET, call a vet right away.
How much DEET is dangerous to a pet?
Higher concentrations (above 30%) and larger amounts are more dangerous, but any ingestion warrants a call to a vet. Pets are smaller and more sensitive than humans, and symptoms can progress from drooling to seizures. Note the concentration and amount for the vet.
What if my pet just licked a small amount of bug spray?
Even a small amount can cause drooling and stomach upset, and higher exposure can lead to neurological signs. Wipe the fur, note the product and DEET percentage, and call a veterinarian or poison hotline for guidance rather than waiting.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11