Is Eucalyptus Toxic to Cats? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, eucalyptus is mildly toxic to cats

Eucalyptus contains eucalyptol (eucalyptus oil). The ASPCA lists it as toxic to cats and dogs. Chewing fresh or dried eucalyptus from a bouquet or shower bundle usually causes drooling and stomach upset, while the essential oil can cause more serious neurological signs.

Eucalyptus and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Eucalyptus spp.
Also called	gum tree, silver dollar eucalyptus
Toxic compound	Essential oils (e.g. linalool, menthol, eucalyptol)
Toxic parts	Leaves; eucalyptus essential oil is far more concentrated
Signs usually start	Within hours; faster with concentrated oils
Plant type	Herb

What cat owners should know

Cats are particularly sensitive to eucalyptus oil. Avoid diffusing it around cats and never apply it to their skin.

Symptoms of eucalyptus poisoning in cats

Drooling
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Depression and weakness
With essential oil: wobbliness, slowed breathing, seizures (rare)

Why eucalyptus is toxic to cats

The plant contains aromatic essential oils. Eating a little of the fresh plant usually causes only stomach upset. Concentrated essential oils are far more potent and are absorbed through the skin and lungs as well as the gut. Cats are especially vulnerable because they lack some of the liver enzymes (glucuronyl transferases) needed to clear these compounds.

What to do if your cat ate eucalyptus

Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
Watch for drooling, vomiting, diarrhea. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

For the plant, supportive care is usually enough. For essential oil exposure, wash oil off the skin with dish soap, do not induce vomiting (oils can be inhaled into the lungs), and call your vet or poison control.

How to keep your cat away from eucalyptus

Place eucalyptus on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.

Pet-safe alternatives to eucalyptus

If you love growing herbs, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Eucalyptus and cats: FAQ

Is eucalyptus poisonous to cats?

Eucalyptus is mildly toxic to cats. Essential oils (e.g. linalool, menthol, eucalyptol) can cause drooling and vomiting, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of eucalyptus is toxic to cats?

Leaves; eucalyptus essential oil is far more concentrated.

Can cats die from eating eucalyptus?

It is very unlikely. Eucalyptus usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating eucalyptus will my cat show symptoms?

Within hours; faster with concentrated oils.

Is eucalyptus toxic to dogs too?

Yes, eucalyptus is mildly toxic to dogs.

Other plants toxic to cats

Using essential oils at home? Read are essential oils safe for cats?

Sources

Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.

Is Eucalyptus Toxic to Cats?