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If your dog ate citronella grass — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Citronella Grass is mildly toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Citronella Grass — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take citronella grass away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.

This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.

My dog ate citronella grass — FAQ

Is citronella grass poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus) as mildly toxic to dogs. The ASPCA lists Cymbopogon nardus (citronella grass) as toxic to dogs and cats, noting it can cause symptoms including skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea), muscle weakness, and depression if ingested in significant quantities. The essential oils are the primary irritant. Keep pets away from the plant and especially away from concentrated citronella oil products.

How serious is it if my dog ate citronella grass?

Citronella Grass is mildly toxic, so most dogs get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your dog ate a lot or symptoms persist.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. The ASPCA lists Cymbopogon nardus (citronella grass) as toxic to dogs and cats, noting it can cause symptoms including skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea), muscle weakness, and depression if ingested in significant quantities. The essential oils are the primary irritant. Keep pets away from the plant and especially away from concentrated citronella oil products. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.

Should I make my dog vomit?

No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.

How do I stop this happening again?

Keep citronella grass well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

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