Is Eucalyptus Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Eucalyptus is severely toxic to cats and moderately toxic to dogs — the essential oils cause vomiting, lethargy, and in cats liver and nerve damage. The oil is most dangerous. Call a vet.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
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 Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus is severely toxic to cats and moderately toxic to dogs — the essential oils cause vomiting, lethargy, and in cats liver and nerve damage. The oil is most dangerous. Call a vet.
Also known as: eucalyptus globulus, silver dollar plant, cider gum, eucalyptus oil, gum tree.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐈 In Cats
- Vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea
- Lethargy, weakness, and depression
- Cats are especially sensitive to essential oils and can suffer liver and nervous-system damage
- Seizures and collapse with concentrated oil exposure
🐕 In Dogs
- Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea from the essential oils
- Lethargy and weakness
- Depression of the nervous system in larger amounts
- The concentrated essential oil is far more dangerous than the plant
What to Do If Ingested
- Remove any remaining plant material from the mouth.
- Note whether the plant or concentrated essential oil was ingested.
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline for guidance.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian tells you to.
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:
- A large amount of the plant was eaten
- Any eucalyptus essential oil was ingested
- Persistent vomiting, lethargy, or weakness
- Disorientation or breathing changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is eucalyptus more dangerous to cats than dogs?
Cats lack certain liver enzymes needed to break down essential oils, so eucalyptus oil and its compounds accumulate and cause liver and nervous-system damage. Dogs tolerate it somewhat better but can still suffer vomiting, lethargy, and nervous-system depression.
Is eucalyptus essential oil more dangerous than the plant?
Yes. The concentrated essential oil is far more toxic than the plant material. Even a small amount of eucalyptus essential oil can cause serious poisoning in cats, including seizures and liver damage. Never use eucalyptus essential oil on or around cats.
Is dried eucalyptus in a vase safe around pets?
Dried eucalyptus still contains the essential oils and is toxic if chewed. The risk is lower than the concentrated oil or fresh plant, but keep dried arrangements out of reach. Call a vet if your pet chews on eucalyptus, especially a cat.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants Database
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Toxicology
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poisons
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11