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Toxic: keep away from dogs

DogSafe severity score
8/10

Kerosene and lamp oils are hydrocarbons.

Call a vet or poison control now. Do not wait for symptoms.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. A consultation fee may apply.

Source-backed guidance. Not individualized veterinary advice.(more)

Compiled from veterinary poison-control and medical references, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, and Merck Veterinary Manual.

Part of our guide to Dog Got Into Kerosene: Exposure Guide, Symptoms & What to Do.

Check Kerosene for your dog

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Why Kerosene is dangerous

Kerosene and lamp oils are hydrocarbons. Aspiration into the lungs is the most serious risk and can occur after swallowing or vomiting.

Signs to watch for

Coughing, gagging, vomiting, breathing difficulty, drooling, lethargy, skin irritation

Related items

Check the exact item or ingredient before assuming two similar exposures carry the same risk.

Indoor Insect FoggerLighter FluidImidacloprid Lawn GranulesLime-A-Way CleanerGlyphosate ConcentrateLiquid PotpourriGasolineLye CrystalsDrain CleanerMuriatic Acid Cleaner

What to do next

Do not induce vomiting. Keep the container and call an emergency veterinarian or poison control right away.

🚨Step-by-step: what to do in the first 10 minutes →
Animal poison control
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Available 24/7. A consultation fee may apply.

A closer look at kerosene

Kerosene and lamp oils are hydrocarbons. Aspiration into the lungs is the most serious risk and can occur after swallowing or vomiting. The details below use the specific facts for this exposure, rather than treating it like every other househol question.

1. Start with the exact exposure

For a closely related comparison, read Indoor Insect Fogger. Any ingestion, coughing after exposure, or spill on the coat needs immediate professional guidance. Scented lamp oils may add other hazards.

2. Use the facts to decide whether to monitor or call

Another helpful reference is Lighter Fluid. Do not induce vomiting or give food, charcoal, or another product unless a veterinarian or poison specialist directs you. Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center with the exact product or plant, amount, time, and your dog's weight.

3. If the details are uncertain

Follow the first 10 minutes guide. Do not induce vomiting. Keep the container and call an emergency veterinarian or poison control right away.

FAQ

How much Kerosene is dangerous?

Any ingestion, coughing after exposure, or spill on the coat needs immediate professional guidance. Scented lamp oils may add other hazards.

Can I treat this at home?

Do not induce vomiting or give food, charcoal, or another product unless a veterinarian or poison specialist directs you.

When should I call the vet?

Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center with the exact product or plant, amount, time, and your dog's weight.

Sources
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — Household Hazards
Read DogSafe's sources and review policy →
Compiled from veterinary poison-control and medical reference sources, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the Pet Poison Helpline, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for examination by your veterinarian. DogSafe's severity ratings are our own assessment, calculated from published guidance and your dog's weight. In an emergency, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.