PupkeeperToxic
Dog ate camphor balms and rubs? Toxic: what to do now
Toxic. Camphor balms and chest or muscle rubs can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and seizures in larger amounts. Never put them on your dog.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
Camphor balms and rubs and dogs: key facts
What should I do if my dog ate camphor balms and rubs?
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Stop your dog licking any balm on its fur, and wipe it off.
- Keep the jar or tube and bring it; check the label for camphor and methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen).
- Bring any chewed pieces of the container too.
Don't
- Never put camphor balms, vapor rubs or medicated oils on your dog.
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Symptoms to watch for
- Skin irritation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Low energy (depression)
- Fast breathing
- Seizures (large amounts)
Why
Camphor is poisonous to dogs, and pet poison experts advise never putting it on a dog or cat. Some rubs also contain oil of wintergreen (methyl salicylate), which causes aspirin-like poisoning, and a chewed jar can block the gut.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Camphor
- Pet Poison Helpline: The Dangers of Dogs Chewing on Vicks
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicosis in Animals From Human Topical Agents
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.