Is Clove Oil Safe for Cats?
No — Clove Oil is toxic to cats.
Clove Oil is listed as toxic to cats by Pet Poison Helpline; VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual. The toxic component is Eugenol, a phenol cats cannot glucuronidate; can cause hepatotoxicity, methemoglobinemia and red-cell oxidative injury. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Clove Oil away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Scientific name | Syzygium aromaticum |
|---|---|
| Category | Essential Oils |
| 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.
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Source: Pet Poison Helpline; VCA Hospitals; Merck Vet Manual ↗
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 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).