Is Cats Safe?
Is Clove Oil Safe for Cats?
No — Clove Oil is toxic to cats.
Clove oil contains eugenol, a phenol that cats cannot properly metabolize, making it toxic to them. Exposure can cause drooling, vomiting, mouth and throat irritation, lethargy, seizures, and liver failure. Keep clove oil away from cats entirely, and contact a vet immediately if exposure occurs.
| Scientific name | Syzygium aromaticum |
|---|---|
| Category | Essential Oils |
| Toxic principle | Eugenol, a phenol cats cannot glucuronidate; can cause hepatotoxicity, methemoglobinemia and red-cell oxidative injury |
| Also known as | clove, clove essential oil, eugenol oil |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Mouth/throat irritation
- Lethargy
- Seizures
- Liver failure. Keep away from cats
If your cat may have been exposed to Clove Oil:
- 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 Clove Oil toxic to cats?
Yes. Clove Oil is reported toxic to cats by Pet Poison Helpline; VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Clove Oil?
Reported signs include: Drooling, Vomiting, Mouth/throat irritation, Lethargy, Seizures, Liver failure. Keep away from cats.
What makes Clove Oil toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Clove Oil is Eugenol, a phenol cats cannot glucuronidate; can cause hepatotoxicity, methemoglobinemia and red-cell oxidative injury. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Clove Oil 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 Clove Oil?
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).