MELBOURNE: The Pet Poison Helpline has warned that tea tree oil is poisonous to pets as only seven drops of 100% concentrated tea tree oil result in severe poisoning.
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, applying the tea tree oil in additional quantities may result in poisoning and death in pets like cats and dogs. It stated that some symptoms include weakness, inability to walk, a low body temperature, tremors, and increased liver enzymes.
Tea tree oil, an essential oil produced from the Australian tea tree plant (Melaleuca alternifolia), is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. “Tea Tree oil is a phenomenal antiseptic and bug deterrent, but should NOT be used on dogs. I learned this the hard way,” said a Reddit user. Another user posted that the oil is in many shampoos and topical treatments, and dogs cannot ingest it.
