Which Eucalyptus Essential Oil Is Safe for Dogs and Cats?

Not all eucalyptus essential oils are the same. Eucalyptus radiata is the milder choice for animals, lemon eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) is the one to grab to repel bugs, and Eucalyptus globulus is so strong it's not the best choice for animals or small children. Eucalyptus dives isn't commonly used in animal aromatherapy because gentler options exist.

If you've ever searched for germ-fighting essential oil blends on Google or Pinterest, you probably found lots of recipes containing eucalyptus. With good reason, it's a germ-fighting powerhouse! The problem is that there are several different eucalyptus essential oils, and most recipes don't specify which one to use. (This is one reason you shouldn't blindly trust recipes on Pinterest.)

Why aren't all eucalyptus essential oils the same?

Botanists have identified over 700 species of eucalyptus trees, so it's no surprise there are several different eucalyptus essential oils. When it comes to using eucalyptus with your animal companions, it's important to know which varieties are safe and which are best to avoid.

For an overview of the 4 most common eucalyptus oils, watch the video above or keep reading. Both will tell you which eucalyptus oils are safe for your animal friends, which to avoid, and which to grab to repel bugs.

What are the 4 most common eucalyptus essential oils?

Eucalyptus radiata (the milder choice)

Eucalyptus radiata is a milder and safer alternative to Eucalyptus globulus. It's not as powerful at disinfecting, but it's still highly effective for lung conditions like kennel cough, bronchitis, and pneumonia, and it's gentle enough to diffuse around your animals. The scent is invigorating, yet softer and sweeter than globulus.

Eucalyptus citriodora (lemon eucalyptus, the bug repellent)

Often called lemon eucalyptus, this is the eucalyptus you want to repel bugs. It differs greatly from the other three eucalyptus oils and has a lemony, citronella-like scent. It has antibacterial, antimicrobial, decongestant, and expectorant qualities, though they aren't as potent as the others. It's a safe choice for both animals and small children. Learn how to use it in Repel Ticks and Fleas with Essential Oils.

Eucalyptus dives (peppermint eucalyptus)

Also called peppermint eucalyptus, this oil has a minty scent and is chemically different from both globulus and radiata. While it has similar therapeutic properties, it's more effective at helping achy, sore muscles. Dives isn't commonly used in animal aromatherapy because there are gentler alternatives to relieve your animal's aches and pains.

Eucalyptus globulus (blue gum, the strongest)

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as blue gum, is the most potent and most popular of all the eucalyptus oils. It has a powerful, camphorous, and invigorating aroma and the most 1,8 cineole of any eucalyptus, making it excellent for adults with sinus congestion, colds, and bronchitis.

It's so strong that it's not the best choice for animals or small children. If you're going to diffuse it around your animals, especially cats, follow safe diffusing guidelines. When people or animals inhale this oil too closely, it may cause coughing.

Both globulus and radiata have decongestant and expectorant properties, as well as antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Both are excellent for supporting lung and sinus conditions.

What should I know before using any eucalyptus oil with my animals?

• Never let your animal ingest it. Eucalyptus essential oils and the plant leaves can be toxic to animals.
• Check premade blends. If a blend contains eucalyptus, check which one, use care, and keep an eye on your animals. See Diffusing Essential Oils Safely Around Pets.
• Dilute for the skin. If you apply any eucalyptus to the skin, it should be properly diluted.
• Watch the shelf life. Eucalyptus oils can oxidize (chemically change over time), so their shelf life is rather short, approximately 2 to 4 years. Don't use them on the skin after they have oxidized.
• Look at the GC/MS report. Growing seasons vary from year to year and affect the chemistry of any essential oil. It's a good idea to see how much 1,8 cineole (also called eucalyptol) is in the batch you're buying.

Frequently asked questions

Which eucalyptus oil is safest for dogs?

Eucalyptus radiata is the milder, safer alternative to globulus and is gentle enough to diffuse around your animals. Lemon eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) is also a safe choice when your goal is repelling bugs.

Is eucalyptus essential oil safe for cats?

Cats need extra care, so choose the milder species, follow safe diffusing guidelines, and let your cat leave the room whenever they choose. Learn more in Are Essential Oils Safe for Cats? What the Research Actually Says.

Why do some lists say eucalyptus is toxic to dogs?

Those lists rarely say which eucalyptus they mean. Species matters, as does how the oil is used. Read Which Essential Oils Are Toxic to Dogs? The Truth Behind the Lists to see why.

What is 1,8 cineole, and why does it matter?

1,8 cineole (also called eucalyptol) is a main component of eucalyptus oil and a big part of why species differ in strength. Eucalyptus globulus has the most of any eucalyptus. A GC/MS report shows how much is in your batch.

Amy Williams DeLong is a professional aromatherapist (NAHA Level II) with 25+ years of experience with animals and the creator of the Animal Aromatherapy program at Essence of Thyme College of Holistic Studies. This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary care.