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My cat inhaled peppermint oil. What toxic symptoms should I watch?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 23 days old | 7 lbs

I rubbed peppermint extract around baseboard to get rid of ants that were coming in to get to cat's food. Kitty didn't seem to like scent, but I didn't realize it was toxic until I looked it up! I had no idea it would not be safe. I wiped it off, washed cat bowls, and moved cat (quarantined until booster shot) to next room (with air purifier running). What symptoms should I be on lookout for since he inhaled it?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 17th, 2017

Oh no, that's not good! Inhaling peppermint oil can cause aspiration pneumonia. Symptoms of this include fever, fast or labored breathing, and a rapid heart beat. If you see any of those signs, take Wilford into a vet immediately.

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