Is Cats Safe?

Is Lemon Oil Safe for Cats?

Toxic for cats

No — Lemon Oil is toxic to cats.

Lemon Oil is listed as toxic to cats by Plumlee, Clinical Veterinary Toxicology; Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986; Pet Poison Helpline. The toxic component is High d-limonene and citral; cats are more sensitive to citrus oils than dogs (Plumlee; Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986). Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Lemon Oil away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.

Scientific nameCitrus limon
CategoryEssential Oils
Toxic principleHigh d-limonene and citral; cats are more sensitive to citrus oils than dogs (Plumlee; Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986)
Also known aslemon essential oil, lemon oil

Signs to watch for in cats

If your cat may have been exposed to Lemon Oil:

  1. Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
  2. Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
  3. 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 Lemon Oil toxic to cats?

Yes. Lemon Oil is reported toxic to cats by Plumlee, Clinical Veterinary Toxicology; Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986; Pet Poison Helpline. Keep it away from your cat.

What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Lemon Oil?

Reported signs include: Hypersalivation, Hypothermia, Ataxia, Muscle tremors, Dermatitis. Never use citrus-oil 'natural' flea dips on cats.

What makes Lemon Oil toxic to cats?

The harmful component reported for Lemon Oil is High d-limonene and citral; cats are more sensitive to citrus oils than dogs (Plumlee; Hooser et al. JAVMA 1986). Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.

How much Lemon 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 Lemon 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).