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Why is my dog vomiting and restless after wearing a citronella collar?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 13 years and 11 months old | 22 lbs

I used a citronella collar on my dog. He vomited and is breathing heavy and just overall restless

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 24th, 2017

Oh no, poor Topo.I would recommend taking the citronella collar off, give him a good bath, and then monitor Topo for the next 30 minutes or so for any improvement in clinical signs. If he is still having heavy panting, vomiting and restlessness, then it is best to have him seen by an ER vet if your vet Is not available. He likely will need a steroid injection+/- antihistamine injection and possible fluids to stop the allergic reaction and flush it out of his system. I hope that Topo is able to make a full and speedy recovery. Take care and good luck.

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    Answered By Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, was the collar one of the anti- bark collars that sprays citronella, or was it a herbal flea collar? Either way, the scent is likely repulsive to Topo and making him nauseated. You should take it off him and bath him well to remove the scent from his fur. Citronella is not toxic unless ingested then can cause vomiting. If the heavy breathing continues you should take him to a vet.

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