Is Potpourri Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Potpourri is severely toxic to cats and moderately so to dogs — it packs concentrated essential oils and alcohol. Call a vet immediately if eaten.
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 Potpourri?
Potpourri is severely toxic to cats and moderately so to dogs — it packs concentrated essential oils and alcohol. Call a vet immediately if eaten.
Also known as: liquid potpourri, simmering potpourri, potpourri oil, scented botanicals, simmer pot.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐈 In Cats
- Severe drooling, vomiting, and mouth burns
- Wobbliness, depression, and low body temperature
- Difficulty breathing
- Liver and kidney damage from concentrated essential oils
🐕 In Dogs
- Drooling and vomiting
- Wobbliness or depression from alcohol and essential oils
- Mouth and throat irritation
- Possible liver effects with larger amounts
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline.
- Note whether it was liquid or dry potpourri and the ingredients if listed.
- Rinse the mouth with water if the dog will drink.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a professional directs it.
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 potpourri was eaten or liquid potpourri drunk
- Drooling, vomiting, or wobbliness
- Depression or weakness
- Yellowing gums or eyes in following days
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is liquid potpourri so dangerous, especially to cats?
Liquid and simmering potpourri contain concentrated essential oils and often alcohol, and sometimes cationic surfactants — all of which cats cannot metabolize. Even skin contact is dangerous because cats groom themselves and swallow it. A few licks can cause severe poisoning.
Is dry potpourri safer than liquid?
Dry potpourri is generally less concentrated than liquid, but it is still coated in essential oils and can cause drooling, vomiting, and stomach upset. If eaten in quantity, the dried botanicals can also cause a blockage. Keep both forms out of reach and call a vet if any is eaten.
What should I do if potpourri gets on my cat's fur?
Wash the area immediately with dish soap and plenty of water, because a cat will lick the oil off and swallow it. Then call a vet — even if the cat seems fine, the oils can be absorbed through the skin or ingested during grooming. Do not wait for symptoms.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11