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My puppy got citronella oil for fleas. Is it safe and effective?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 months and 30 days old | 22 lbs

How much essential oil (citronella) puts your dog at risk? I was desperate and put some undilluted drops on her neck and belly against fleas. I've only had her 2 days and she's about 3 months old. I only used a little though but she's a pup. I read too late that it causes breathing problems and now I am worried.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 20th, 2017

Every essential oil can cause breathing problems in dogs that are sensitive to it. It is usually because their noses are much stronger than ours, and some scents are just not tolerated very well. If you puppy hasn't shown any distress from the oils, then she will probably be fine. However, citronella is not an effective flea preventative. Fleas can carry disease and can cause allergies and even anemia. I recommend that you use a flea preventative like Seresto collars or a prescription flea preventative from your vet to make sure that Panda is well protected. https://www.petcoach.co/article/8-serious-diseases-your-dog-can-get-from-fleas-and-ticks-and-how-/

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