Is Cats Safe?

Is Lemongrass Oil Safe for Cats?

Toxic for cats

No — Lemongrass Oil is toxic to cats.

Lemongrass oil is toxic to cats because it contains citral and geraniol, and cats lack the metabolic pathways needed to safely break these compounds down. Exposure can cause vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy, and may lead to liver enzyme elevation. If your cat has been exposed, contact your vet right away.

Scientific nameCymbopogon citratus
CategoryEssential Oils
Toxic principleCitral and geraniol; cats lack the UGT pathways to detoxify them (ASPCA lists lemongrass as toxic to cats). Oil is far more concentrated than the plant.
Also known aslemongrass, lemon grass oil, lemongrass essential oil

Signs to watch for in cats

If your cat may have been exposed to Lemongrass 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 Lemongrass Oil toxic to cats?

Yes. Lemongrass Oil is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA; Pet Poison Helpline. Keep it away from your cat.

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

Reported signs include: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Anorexia, Lethargy, Possible liver enzyme elevation. Never use lemongrass 'natural' flea products on cats.

What makes Lemongrass Oil toxic to cats?

The harmful component reported for Lemongrass Oil is Citral and geraniol; cats lack the UGT pathways to detoxify them (ASPCA lists lemongrass as toxic to cats). Oil is far more concentrated than the plant.. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.

How much Lemongrass 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 Lemongrass 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).