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Ylang Ylang
Cananga odorata
Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) essential oil is toxic to cats. The fragrant essential oil — widely used in perfumes, diffusers, and aromatherapy — contains germacrene and related sesquiterpene compounds that cats cannot safely metabolise. Both inhalation of diffused oil and topical application cause toxicity.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: germacrene, benzyl acetate, methyl benzoate, and other volatile sesquiterpene and ester compounds in the essential oil
Mechanism: cats lack the hepatic glucuronidase needed to metabolise these compounds efficiently; accumulation causes GI and CNS effects
Symptoms: vomiting, drooling, weakness, unsteady gait (ataxia), difficulty breathing; inhalation may cause respiratory irritation
Essential oil diffusers in closed rooms are a significant risk even without direct contact
Do not apply ylang ylang oil to or near cats; use diffusers only in well-ventilated areas the cat cannot access
Potentially Toxic Parts
Root
Stem
Leaf
Flower
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Shaking, tremoring, seizures, and collapse
Neurological · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Liver failure and serious organ damage
Hepatic · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Excessive dribbling (drooling) and vomiting
Gastrointestinal · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Walking as if they are drunk (ataxia)
Neurological · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Lethargy, depression, or dullness
Neurological · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Difficulty breathing or breathing with the mouth open
Respiratory · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Sore, red skin, and chemical burns
Dermal · Not explicitly specified in the sources.
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.