Are essential oils safe for cats you have reared at home?
Essential oils smell wonderful and have numerous health benefits for humans, ranging from relaxation to improved wellness. Because they’re so common, you might be wondering if they have the same benefits and therapeutic effects for your cat. Unfortunately, the risks of essential oils for cats outweigh the potential benefits.
While using essential oils, knowledge will keep you and your family healthy and safe. So, be sure to read my other essential oil posts for dosing, safety, and application advice.
Now, let’s look at how to use essential oils that are safe for cats.
How To Use Essential Oils On Cats Safely
If you’re looking for a way to use essential oils safely on cats, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, it’s important to choose essential oils that are safe for cats. Some essential oils can be toxic to cats, so be sure to check the labels carefully.
Once you’ve selected safe essential oils, you’ll need to diluted them before using them on your cat. The best way to do this is to add a few drops of essential oil to a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Once the essential oil is diluted, you can apply it to your cat’s fur using a cotton ball or cloth. Be sure to avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth area.
If you’re looking for a way to use essential oils safely on cats, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, it’s important to choose essential oils that are safe for cats. Some essential oils can be toxic to cats, so be sure to check the labels carefully.
Once you’ve selected safe essential oils, you’ll need to diluted them before using them on your cat. The best way to do this is to add a few drops of essential oil to a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Once the essential oil is diluted, you can apply it to your cat’s fur using a cotton ball or cloth. Be sure to avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth area.
If you have any concerns about using essential oils on your cat, be sure to talk to your veterinarian first. They can give you more information and guidance on what essential oils are safe to use and how to use them properly.
Diffusing Essential Oils Around Cats
Diffusing essential oils around cats must be avoided.
For more information on this subject, please read here – https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk/a-scent-sitive-subject-essential-oil-diffusers-and-your-cat/
Best Essential Oils For Cats
Some of the recommended essential oils safe for use for cats include:
- Rose oil
- Lavender oil
- Lemongrass oil
- Chamomile oil
- Frankincense oil
- Vanilla oil
Lavender has been shown to be a powerful, fast-acting anti-flea agent. According to some studies, a diluted lavender formula can be just as effective at killing fleas as commercial chemical sprays.
To use lavender essential oils for fleas on your cat, dilute them thoroughly with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil or sweet almond oil. Use three tablespoons of carrier oil and a few drops of the flea essential oil of your choice. The goal is to dilute the solution by 80-90%. First, rub the solution into your hands. Then, apply to your pet’s most affected areas.
In a glass spray bottle, you could also make a spray. To one cup of water, add four drops of flea essential oil. Shake thoroughly before using and spray on your cat’s fur, avoiding his face. To repel and keep fleas at bay, you could also use a comb dipped in the solution or apply it to your cat’s collar.
To use essential oils safely, they must be highly diluted to reduce their phenol content. Also, don’t use any essential oils until you’ve checked with your veterinarian.
What If Your Cat Eats (Or Drinks) The Essential Oil Accidentally
There will be obvious signs if your cat has consumed a toxic essential oil. Make a careful distinction between a cat coughing up a hairball and a cat vomiting or in unusual distress. Keep an eye out for the following signs of essential oil poisoning:
Examine your cat’s fur and breath for the scent of the oil.
They have redness in and around their mouth.
- Breathing problems
- Petting their mouth or face
- Fatigue
- Agitation
- Walking difficulties or muscle tremors
- Eyes and nose that are watery or irritated
- Retching or vomiting
- Drooling
If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, you must act quickly and seek medical attention.
Keeping Your Cat Safe From Essential Oils
Even if you don’t use essential oils on your cat, you may have them in your home. Here are some important guidelines for keeping your cat safe around essential oils:
- Keep all oil bottles’ lids tightly closed.
- Keep them safe and out of your cat’s reach by keeping them locked away or in a pet-inaccessible location.
- Only use an oil diffuser in a large, well-ventilated area.
- When burning oils, avoid placing them on surfaces that a cat could easily reach.
- Clean all surfaces that have been touched by essential oils thoroughly.
- Make sure everyone who comes into contact with your cat is aware that essential oils can be harmful and must be handled with caution.
What Essential Oils To Avoid For Cats
Rosemary essential oil has to be avoided for cat use. A Canadian vet by the name of Dr Karen Marsden spoke about the use of rosemary essential oils on cats.
Marsden stated that giving a cat a piece of food with rosemary leaves on it is safe, but that rosemary essential oil could make them sick.
Read more about her sharing with CBC
Other essential oils to avoid for cats include:
- Eucalyptus
- Ylang Ylang
- Peppermint
- Tea tree oil
Moving On
Overall, unless working with a qualified animal aromatherapist, the essential oils aforementioned are best avoided for cats’ optimal health and well-being. It is difficult to use essential oils in a completely safe manner for your cat, and there are numerous risks to consider. If you choose to use them, you must exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant at all times. The best thing to do is to consult your veterinarian before using essential oils – your cat will thank you!
