DEET and Pets
Find out if DEET is toxic to dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is one of the most common active ingredients in human insect repellents and bug sprays, but it is not safe for pets. Dogs and cats can be exposed by licking repellent off human skin, grooming fur that has contacted treated clothing or bedding, chewing on spray bottles, or being accidentally sprayed. Even small amounts can cause neurological and gastrointestinal signs, so any suspected exposure should be treated as a potential emergency.
Clinical signs of DEET poisoning usually appear within minutes to a few hours after exposure. Pets may vomit, drool excessively, become lethargic, or develop skin irritation. More serious cases can progress to tremors, loss of coordination, disorientation, or seizures. Cats are especially sensitive because they groom frequently and can absorb chemicals through the skin as well as by ingestion.
Prevention is the safest approach. Never apply human bug repellents to your pet, and avoid using DEET-containing products around animals when possible. Let any spray dry completely on your skin and clothing before handling your pet, and keep all repellents and aerosols in a secure cabinet out of reach. When you need protection for your dog or cat against fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes, choose a product specifically labeled and approved for that species, or ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.
Is DEET Toxic to Dogs?
DEET can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and other neurological signs in dogs. Licking or chewing skin treated with DEET, or direct application, can lead to significant toxicity.
Is DEET Toxic to Cats?
Cats are particularly sensitive to DEET. Ingestion or skin absorption can cause drooling, vomiting, tremors, disorientation, and seizures, and may be life-threatening.
Active Ingredients
- DEET
- N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide
Pest Targeted
- Mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and other biting insects
Formulation
Liquid spray, lotion, aerosol, stick, or wipe
Signal Word
caution
Application Area
Human skin and clothing; outdoor use
EPA Registration Number
EPA Reg. No. varies by product
Symptoms to Watch For
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or depression
- Skin irritation or redness
- Tremors
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Disorientation
- Seizures
- Difficulty walking
What If My Pet Was Exposed to DEET?
If your pet was exposed to DEET, wash any skin or fur with mild soap and water immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center right away, and bring the product label with you.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control - Insect Repellents
- Pet Poison Helpline - DEET
- U.S. EPA - Insect Repellents
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.