Is Eucalyptus Safe for Dogs?

You love your dog, and you want to keep them safe. So, it’s important to know about things that can be harmful to them. One of those things is eucalyptus.

Eucalyptus is a plant that has a strong, fresh smell. You might like the smell, but eucalyptus is poisonous to dogs! It can make them very sick, and in some cases, it can even be deadly.

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Why Is Eucalyptus Bad for Dogs?

Eucalyptus plants contain an oil called eucalyptol. This oil is what gives eucalyptus its strong scent. While eucalyptol can have some health benefits for people, it’s toxic to dogs.

Even small amounts of eucalyptus can be harmful to dogs. That’s because their bodies can’t process eucalyptol the way people can. When a dog eats or breathes in eucalyptus, the eucalyptol builds up in their system. This can cause lots of problems.

What Happens If a Dog Eats Eucalyptus?

If your dog eats eucalyptus, it can cause all sorts of problems with their tummy and brain. Here are some signs to watch for:

Upset stomach: Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling a lot, not wanting to eat.
Acting strange: Weakness, trouble walking, seeming sad or tired, acting confused, shaking, seizures.

If you think your dog has eaten eucalyptus, call your vet or animal poison control right away.

What About Eucalyptus Oil?

Eucalyptus oil is even more dangerous for dogs than eucalyptus plants. That’s because the oil is much stronger. It’s like the difference between eating a whole chili pepper and just a tiny drop of hot sauce – the hot sauce is way more intense!

Eucalyptus oil can hurt dogs in a few ways:

If they eat it: Eucalyptus oil can cause serious problems if a dog eats it, even just a little bit.
If it touches their skin: Eucalyptus oil can irritate their skin, causing redness, swelling, and itchiness.
If they breathe it in: Dogs have very sensitive noses. Breathing in eucalyptus oil, even from a diffuser, can be irritating and make it hard for them to breathe.

What if My Dog Got Eucalyptus Oil on Their Skin?

If your dog gets eucalyptus oil on their skin, wash it off right away with dish soap and water. Then, call your vet to be safe.

Can I Use Eucalyptus Diffusers Around My Dog?

It’s best to avoid using eucalyptus diffusers around dogs altogether. Even if your dog doesn’t show any obvious signs of being bothered by the smell, it could still be irritating their airways. Plus, you never know if your dog might try to drink the water in the diffuser or chew on the cord.

What Should I Do if My Dog Has Been Around Eucalyptus?

If you think your dog has been exposed to eucalyptus in any way, call your vet or animal poison control right away. They can help you figure out the best course of action.

Here are some things you can do before you go to the vet:

Get your dog to fresh air.
Do not try to make your dog vomit unless the vet tells you to.
If your dog got eucalyptus oil on their skin, wash it off right away with dish soap.
Gather up the eucalyptus product and its packaging and put it in a sealed bag to bring to the vet.

Are There Any Safe Smells for Dogs?

If you enjoy having nice smells in your home, there are some safe alternatives to eucalyptus. Some dog-friendly options include:

Lavender: Lavender is known for its calming properties. It can help dogs relax and feel less anxious.
Chamomile: Chamomile is another gentle scent that can help soothe dogs.
Ginger This is a warm, spicy scent that can help with nausea.

Important Note: Even when using dog-friendly scents, it’s important to use them sparingly and in well-ventilated areas. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying them to your dog’s skin, and never let your dog eat essential oils. It’s always best to check with your vet before using any new scents around your dog.

The Bottom Line

Eucalyptus might smell nice to you, but it’s not worth the risk when it comes to your furry friend. By keeping eucalyptus out of your home and knowing the signs of eucalyptus poisoning, you can help keep your dog happy and healthy.