Is Cats Safe?
Is Citrus Oil (d-limonene) Safe for Cats?
No — Citrus Oil (d-limonene) is toxic to cats.
Citrus Oil (d-limonene) is listed as toxic to cats by Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986; Plumlee; ASPCA APCC. The toxic component is d-Limonene is neurotoxic at high concentration and an established cause of feline toxicosis (Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986). Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Citrus Oil (d-limonene) away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Category | Essential Oils |
|---|---|
| Toxic principle | d-Limonene is neurotoxic at high concentration and an established cause of feline toxicosis (Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986) |
| Also known as | citrus oil, d-limonene, limonene, citrus essential oil |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Tremors
- Hypersalivation
- Hypothermia
- Ataxia
- Skin excoriation. Do not use any d-limonene flea product on cats
If your cat may have been exposed to Citrus Oil (d-limonene):
- Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
- Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
- Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.
Browse all Essential Oils for cats · or check another item.
Frequently asked questions
Is Citrus Oil (d-limonene) toxic to cats?
Yes. Citrus Oil (d-limonene) is reported toxic to cats by Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986; Plumlee; ASPCA APCC. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Citrus Oil (d-limonene)?
Reported signs include: Tremors, Hypersalivation, Hypothermia, Ataxia, Skin excoriation. Do not use any d-limonene flea product on cats.
What makes Citrus Oil (d-limonene) toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Citrus Oil (d-limonene) is d-Limonene is neurotoxic at high concentration and an established cause of feline toxicosis (Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986). Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Citrus Oil (d-limonene) is dangerous to cats?
There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.
What should I do if my cat ate Citrus Oil (d-limonene)?
Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).