Reviewed By Joana Garrido DVM
Is citronella safe for dogs? No, citronella is not safe for dogs because it produces toxic properties. Although this plant is a popular mosquito repellant, using it on your pooch should be avoided as it can cause dangerous side effects like neurological disorders.
Let us delve deeper as to why citronella should be kept away from your dog and know safer alternatives to this plant.
What Is Citronella?
Citronella is a plant renowned for its insect-repelling properties, especially against mosquitoes. It is native to tropical areas of Asia such as China and Vietnam.
Two of its varieties namely Ceylon (Cymbopogon nardus) and Java (Cymbopogon winterianus) are commonly used to create mosquito repellant essential oils. They are derived by putting fresh citronella leaves through the steam distillation process.
Citronella keeps away mosquitoes by masking the carbon dioxide and lactic acid scents of their target. It interferes with the olfactory receptors of these bloodsuckers, making it difficult for them to locate their meal.
Aside from repelling bugs, citronella offers a handful of therapeutic benefits to humans such as easing inflammations, pain, and rashes. Its scent also functions as a deodorizer.
It makes sense that citronella oil is present in several household and cosmetic products such as lotions, moisturizers, soaps, scented candles, detergents, and perfumes.
Does Citronella Effectively Repel Mosquitoes?
Mosquito bites transmit dangerous illnesses to dogs such as heartworm disease, West Nile virus, and Leishmania. Thus, many pawrents find it appealing to use citronella on their dogs due to the plant’s mosquito-repelling properties.
However, there is not enough literature to support the plant’s efficacy on canines.
While many human studies were done to assess its repellent effect, the results were varied.
For instance, a 2017 study noted that citronella candle failed to ward away mosquitoes. In comparison, research shows that combining citronella oil with vanillin provided 100% repellency for up to 3 hours.
Certain factors affect also the mosquito-repellant ability of citronella oil such as its concentration and application method. It should be noted that using the oil in high concentrations is usually needed for better efficacy.
However, excessively ingesting the citronella plant or exposure to its oil in large amounts is dangerous to dogs as it can induce several side effects, with toxicity as the most concerning adverse reaction.
What Are the Downsides of Using Citronella on Dogs
Although citronella can work as a mosquito repellant, using it on dogs is not advised. Otherwise, the plant might induce distressing ailments such as:
1. Citronella Poisoning
Citronella contains certain active compounds like geraniol that make it toxic to dogs. These poisonous agents are more concentrated in the plant’s essential oil, making them more potent.
Ingesting citronella plants in small quantities will not cause life-threatening side effects but may cause stomach upset. Pawrents should keep watch for abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If consumed in large doses, severe symptoms of poisoning may arise including:
- Convulsions
- Depression
- Hypothermia
- Loss of body coordination
- Muscle weakness
- Shock
Make sure to store citronella products in secure places to prevent accidental poisoning in dogs. Canine companions suspected of ingesting citronella should be sent to the veterinarian right away for diagnosis and treatment.
2. Skin Irritation
The volatile active compounds in the citronella plant are skin irritants. If your pooch comes into direct contact with a citronella plant or oil, contact dermatitis is a likely result.
It usually causes itching, inflamed skin, and rashes. Chewing the plant may also incite mouth and throat irritation, leading to coughing. Ocular irritation may occur if citronella manages to come into contact with the eyes.
3. Respiratory Issues
A dog’s sense of smell is approximately 10,000 to 100,000 times more powerful than a human’s. Exposing your furry pal to the scent of citronella, especially in prolonged periods, will cause respiratory irritation and breathing difficulties.
Thus, using airborne citronella mosquito repellents like citronella candles and sprays around dogs is discouraged.
Should You Use Pet Products Containing Citronella?
A wide range of pet products contain citronella, from pet shampoos and wipes to flea collars. These items must be used according to their labels only.
So be sure to check their printed labels which detail their appropriate use on dogs. We recommend seeking a veterinary professional’s opinion first before using any citronella-containing pet product on Fido as an additional precautionary measure.
Does Citronella Have a Look-Alike?
The citronella plant is easily mistaken for the lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) since they almost have the same appearance and fragrance. The latter exhibits a mosquito-repelling effect as well.
They are considered cousins since both belong to the same genus Cymbopogon. However, the citronella and lemongrass are two different plants. You can tell each of them apart by taking a close look at their physical traits.
| Parts | Citronella | Lemongrass |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Grows up to 6 feet tall | Grows up to 2 feet tall |
| Leaves | Wider, deep green-colored and blade-like | Narrower and light green–colored |
| Base | Comes in shades of magenta | Comes in shades of green |
It is important to note that both plants are poisonous to dogs. However, citronella tends to be more toxic than lemongrass.
What Natural Insect Repellants Are Safe for Dogs?
There are several dog-safe plants you can grow in your yard to fend off pesky mosquitoes such as:
Some plants are capable of repelling mosquitoes but toxic to dogs such as marigolds, lemongrass, garlic, peppermint and citronella. Avoid planting them in your garden and steer your dog away if you come across any of these plants when outdoors.
Read: Rosemary for Dogs: A Careful Examination of Benefits and Risks
FAQs About Citronella for Dogs
1. Is Citronella Oil Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Citronella oil is not safe for dogs and cats. Due to its potency, ingesting it even in small amounts may cause poisoning in both pets.
Common symptoms of citronella oil toxicity in canines include gastric upset and neurologic disorders. Manifestation of these clinical signs calls for an immediate trip to the animal clinic.
2. Is My Dog Allergic to Citronella?
While citronella is an uncommon dog allergen, some pooches may develop an allergic reaction to it. Some signs hinting that your dog is allergic to citronella include:
- Hives
- Gastric distress
- Incessant itchiness
- Inflamed skin
- Swollen face
- Recurrent skin and ear infections
If these symptoms are present, take him to the animal clinic immediately. Any delays increase the chances of life-threatening side effects, such as anaphylaxis.
3. Does the Smell of Citronella Bother Dogs?
The smell of citronella may bother some dogs, especially those with a sharper sense of smell. As stated earlier, the plant’s scent can be irritating to the respiratory system and may induce breathing problems.
With this in mind, do not spray citronella mosquito repellants or diffuse citronella oil around your canine companion.
4. Can I Spray Citronella on My Dog to Stop Barking?
Do not spray citronella on your dog to stop barking. He may end up inhaling the mist and suffer from respiratory issues. If he licks the residue sticking on his skin, toxicity may ensue.
It is better to look for other safer alternatives. Or change your approach to stopping your dog’s nuisance barking. Working with a certified professional dog behaviorist can help.
Summary
Is citronella safe for dogs? Our final answer is no. Citronella is unsafe to use on dogs because of its toxic properties.
If your dog ingests citronella or its essential oil, stomach and neurologic issues may take place. Direct contact triggers skin irritation while inhalation causes respiratory problems.
Pawrents who are in search of natural Mosquito Repellants for Dogs should opt for safer options.
