Is Eucalyptus Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compound in eucalyptus:

• Essential oils: eucalyptol (cineole)

If your dog ate eucalyptus, watch for:

• •Salivation (drooling)
• •Vomiting
• •Diarrhea
• •Depression
• •Weakness
• •Neurologic abnormalities (tremors, difficulty walking, seizures) with concentrated oil exposure
• •Rarely, kidney impairment with highly concentrated essential oil exposure

What happens if my dog eats eucalyptus leaves?

Eucalyptus leaves contain eucalyptol (cineole), an essential oil that irritates the GI tract. Ingesting a few leaves typically causes salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and weakness. According to the ASPCA, eucalyptus is toxic to dogs, so contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline even after a small ingestion to confirm the right course of action.

Is concentrated eucalyptus essential oil more dangerous than the plant?

Yes. Pet Poison Helpline notes that small ingestions of a few leaves or dilute oil cause minor nausea, but oral or dermal exposure to highly concentrated eucalyptus essential oil can cause severe signs including neurologic abnormalities (tremors, weakness, seizures) and, rarely, kidney impairment. Keep undiluted eucalyptus oils, diffuser products, and potpourri away from dogs.

Is eucalyptus also toxic to cats?

Yes. The ASPCA lists eucalyptus as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, all due to the eucalyptol essential oil. Cats are especially sensitive to essential oils because of limited liver metabolism, so eucalyptus plants, dried arrangements, and oils should be kept away from cats as well.

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control - Eucalyptus (Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants)
• Pet Poison Helpline - Eucalyptus

Last updated 2026-06-25