Is Eucalyptus Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Eucalyptus species
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Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Essential oils (eucalyptol) |
| Onset of symptoms | Within a few hours |
| Indoor / outdoor | outdoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
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Symptoms in dogs
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy or mild CNS depression with large amounts
Symptoms in cats
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
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What to do
Usually resolves with monitoring; contact a vet for large ingestions or if lethargy is pronounced.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Eucalyptus is essential oils (eucalyptol).
What makes this plant different
Eucalyptus oil is a common ingredient in aromatherapy diffusers and some flea-repellent products, so exposure isn't limited to owners of the actual tree — concentrated essential oil is considerably more potent than chewing on a fresh leaf.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Eucalyptus species
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Also known as
- Eucalyptus, Many cultivars
- Typically found
- outdoor
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control