Is Cats Safe?
Is Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) Safe for Cats?
No — Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) is toxic to cats.
Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) is listed as toxic to cats by Khan et al. JAVMA 2014; Pet Poison Helpline; Merck Vet Manual. The toxic component is Terpenes (terpinen-4-ol, 1,8-cineole); as little as 7 drops of 100% oil has caused severe poisoning (Pet Poison Helpline; Khan et al. JAVMA 2014). Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Scientific name | Melaleuca alternifolia |
|---|---|
| Category | Essential Oils |
| Also known as | tea tree, melaleuca, tea tree essential oil, melaleuca oil |
Signs to watch for in cats
Hypothermia, weakness, ataxia, tremors, hypersalivation, coma; onset 2–8 h. Never use 'natural' flea products containing it on cats.
If your cat may have been exposed to Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca):
- 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.
Source: Khan et al. JAVMA 2014; Pet Poison Helpline; Merck Vet Manual ↗
Frequently asked questions
Is Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) toxic to cats?
Yes. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) is reported toxic to cats by Khan et al. JAVMA 2014; Pet Poison Helpline; Merck Vet Manual. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca)?
Reported signs include: Hypothermia, weakness, ataxia, tremors, hypersalivation, coma; onset 2–8 h. Never use 'natural' flea products containing it on cats.
What should I do if my cat ate Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca)?
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).