Is Eucalyptus Essential Oil Safe for Cats? (Toxic or Not?)

Cats are unique creatures with a sense of independence and curiosity that often leads them into dangerous situations.

Because of this, it is important for cat owners to be aware of the potential dangers associated with common household items and plants. One such danger is eucalyptus oil, which is often used in products like cough drops and cold remedies.

In this blog post, I’ll explore whether or not eucalyptus oil is safe for cats. I’ll also highlight some of the potential risks associated with its use and provide tips for keeping your feline friend safe.

Is Eucalyptus Essential Oil Safe for Cats?

Eucalyptus oil is derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. The oil has a strong, refreshing scent and is used in a variety of ways, including as an ingredient in cleaners, air fresheners, and cosmetics. Eucalyptus oil is also used in herbal remedies and has a number of purported health benefits.

However, eucalyptus oil is not safe for cats. The oil can be toxic if ingested, and it can also cause skin irritation. If your cat comes into contact with eucalyptus oil, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

You might also like to read: Is Orange Essential Oil Safe For Cats?

Why is Eucalyptus Essential Oil Dangerous for Cats?

Eucalyptus oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. It contains chemicals that can be toxic to cats if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. Here I’ll discuss the potential dangers of eucalyptus oil for cats

1. Eucalyptus Oil Contains Toxicity

Ingesting eucalyptus oil can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea and anorexia in cats. The essential oil contains a compound called cineole or 1,8-cineole which is toxic to the cat’s system if taken in large amounts.

2. Respiratory Issues

Large amounts of eucalyptus oil in the air can cause respiratory issues in cats, such as difficulty breathing and coughing. Inhaling even small amounts of the oil over long periods of time can be dangerous.

3. Skin Irritation

Eucalyptus oil can also irritate a cat’s skin if it comes in direct contact with their skin. This can cause redness, itching and even burning sensations.

4. Liver Damage

If the amount of eucalyptus oil ingested is large enough it may cause liver damage in cats. It is important to seek veterinary attention immediately if your cat has been exposed to any significant amounts of eucalyptus oil.

Also, check out Is Sandalwood Essential Oil Safe For Cats?

Symptoms of Eucalyptus Oil Toxicity in Cats

Eucalyptus oil is a pale blue liquid with a strong, aromatic scent. It is best known as an ingredient in medicinal ointments and liniments, but it can also be used as a Flavoring agent, insecticide, and cleaning product. Eucalyptus oil is toxic to cats and can cause a variety of symptoms if ingested, including

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Excessive thirst
• Weakness
• Tremors
• Seizures

In severe cases, eucalyptus oil toxicity can lead to liver failure and death. If you suspect that your cat has ingested eucalyptus oil, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Treatment You Can Expect from Vet Office

Eucalyptus oil toxicity is a serious condition that can be fatal to cats if left untreated. If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with eucalyptus oil, it is important to take them to the vet immediately.

Here I’ll outline some of the treatment you can expect from your vet:

1. Decontamination

If your cat has been exposed to eucalyptus oil, the first step is decontamination. This may involve giving your cat a bath to remove the oil from its fur and skin. Your vet may also give your cat a gastric lavage, which is a procedure to flush the stomach and remove any remaining oil.

2. IV Fluids

After decontamination, your vet will likely give your cat IV fluids to help flush the oil from its system. This is an important step in treatment as it helps to prevent dehydration.

3. Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen therapy may also be used to help your cat recover from eucalyptus oil toxicity. This treatment involves giving your cat oxygen through a mask or nasal catheter.

4. Blood Transfusions

In severe cases, your cat may require a blood transfusion. This is a procedure in which blood is taken from another animal and transfused into your cat. Blood transfusions are typically used to treat anemia or low blood sugar levels.

5. Liver Support

If your cat has liver damage, your vet may also recommend liver support. This may involve giving your cat medication to help protect the liver or giving your cat a special diet.

Eucalyptus oil toxicity can be dangerous for cats, but with prompt treatment, most cats make a full recovery. If your cat has been exposed to eucalyptus oil, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How to Prevent Eucalyptus Oil Toxicity in Cats?

I know it’s easier said than done, but the best way to prevent eucalyptus oil toxicity in cats is to keep them away from the oil. Now I’ll try to give you some practical tips to do just that:

1. Keep Eucalyptus Oil Out of Reach

Yes, this one is obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. If you use eucalyptus oil in your home, make sure to keep it out of reach of your cat. This means keeping it in a high cabinet or in a room that your cat doesn’t have access to.

2. Use Child-Proof Locks

If you have eucalyptus oil in a cabinet that your cat does have access to, make sure to use child-proof locks. This will help to keep curious cats out of the cabinet and away from the oil.

3. Wipe Up Spills Immediately

If you spill eucalyptus oil, wipe it up immediately. Even a small amount of oil can be dangerous for cats, so it’s important to clean up any spills right away.

4. Keep Your Cat Indoors

If you use eucalyptus oil outdoors, make sure to keep your cat indoors. This will help to prevent them from coming into contact with the oil.

My Final Thoughts

To sum up, eucalyptus oil is poisonous to cats and ought to be kept away from them. If your cat has had any exposure to this oil, take it to see the vet as soon as possible.

With prompt treatment, most cats make a full recovery. To prevent eucalyptus oil toxicity in cats, keep the oil out of reach and wipe up any spills immediately.

Lastly, if you use eucalyptus oil in your home, make sure to keep your cat indoors. By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your cat safe from eucalyptus oil toxicity.