Engine oil, also known as motor oil, is a lubricant used in engines to reduce friction and wear. It is a common household automotive product that poses a risk to curious pets, with the Helpline frequently receiving calls about pets that have licked or walked through oil spills, particularly during DIY car maintenance.

Ingestion of small amounts of engine oil may cause gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Skin contact may cause irritation or inflammation, especially with prolonged exposure. Long-haired pets are particularly vulnerable, as oil can be difficult to remove without thorough bathing. In some cases, aspiration of oil into the lungs during or after ingestion can result in aspiration pneumonia, a serious condition that requires urgent veterinary attention.

Pet owners should also be mindful of engine coolant (antifreeze), which may be drained into the same container as used engine oil during vehicle servicing. Ethylene glycol-based engine coolants are highly toxic and can cause severe kidney damage or death if not treated promptly. To help keep pets safe around automotive products:

✅ Store engine oil, coolant, and other vehicle fluids in sealed, clearly labelled containers out of reach of pets.

✅ Clean up any spills promptly and dispose of used oil and coolant safely through designated collection facilities.

✅ Prevent pets from accessing garages or driveways during vehicle maintenance.

If your pet has ingested or come into contact with engine oil, phone the Animal Poisons Helpline for advice even if your pet looks well. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides expert advice to pet owners and can be reached on: ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ) , 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN).

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