QA

Quick Answer: Why Are Essential Oils Bad For Cats

Cats are small creatures, and even a miniscule amount of diffused oil can harm them. This is because cats very quickly absorb essential oils through their skin, but their livers cannot get rid of those toxins, so essential oils can cause liver damage or even liver failure in large quantities.

Is it safe to diffuse essential oils around cats?

“Diffused oils are very dangerous, as the oils are inhaled,” Bailey said. “Not only are these oil droplets dangerous themselves, but the inhalation of these oils can cause a foreign body pneumonia in cats.” Symptoms of respiratory irritation include a watery nose and eyes, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.

Can I clean with essential oils if I have a cat?

Because felines lack the enzymes that enable the liver to metabolize many essential oils and eliminate toxins, pet parents should avoid using oral, topical, and other inhaled oils around cats.

What essential oils should you not use on cats?

Essential Oils Dangerous for Cats Oregano. Thyme. Wintergreen. Sweet birch. Pennyroyal. Cinnamon. Clove. Peppermint oil.

Is lavender toxic to cats?

The ASPCA web site also lists common house plants and household items that are toxic or dangerous to your cats and dogs. Fresh lavender is not toxic to felines, only the essential oils derived from the plants are.

Is lavender scent toxic to cats?

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals states the common lavender plant (Lavandula angustifolia) contains linlool and linalyl acetate, two compounds toxic to cats (and found in other flowers like bergamot). Basically, in any form, lavender can make your kitty sick as heck.

Is jojoba oil toxic to cats?

Animals can be very sensitive to toxins, especially cats, thus it’s very important to be selective in the products we chose for them. Since jojoba is non-toxic and non-allergenic, it’s a natural product to use on our pets. Several customers have told us that they have used jojoba on their pet’s hot spots.

Is chamomile oil safe for cats?

No, chamomile oil is not safe for cats because the essential oil is far too potent in its concentrated form to be used around cats. It could be fatal if they ingest the oil, and diffusing or using it in any other way around them could also make them sick.

Is lemongrass safe for cats?

Lemongrass isn’t harmful to cats, as long as they nibble in moderation. When made into an essential oil, lemongrass is potentially deadly for your cat. All cats lack glucuronyl transferase, a liver enzyme, that helps to break down most essential oils, including lemongrass.

Is lavender essential oil safe to diffuse around cats?

A few common essential oils that are SAFE to use for your cat include lavender, copaiba, helichrysum, and frankincense. If you diffuse oils in your home, it should not cause a problem for your cat, as oil used in a diffuser is highly diluted (versus direct topical application or dietary supplementation).

What scents are calming for cats?

Like humans, cats are very soothed by the scent of lavender (as long as they are not allergic to it). Kristen Leigh Bell, who wrote Holistic Aromatherapy For Animals, suggests a mixture of lavender, rose, and neroli for a fresh, calming scent.

Can the smell of peppermint hurt cats?

Here is a list of dangerous essential oils to avoid with your cat: Basil, birch, cinnamon, clove, fennel, melaleuca, oregano, peppermint, thyme, and wintergreen as well as oils high in d-limonene (citrus oils) can all have harmful effects on your cat.

Is eucalyptus toxic to cats?

Many essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang ylang are straight up toxic to pets. These are toxic whether they are applied to the skin, used in diffusers or licked up in the case of a spill.

Is Gardenia oil toxic to cats?

Thanks. Gardenias can cause toxicity in cats and GI upset.

Is rosemary toxic to cats?

Rosemary is not listed on the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animal’s lists of toxic plants for dogs or cats, and is not considered toxic to pets. However, it does contain volatile oils that can cause stomach upset or depression of the nervous system if consumed in large amounts.

Will my diffuser hurt my cat?

He explains cats have sensitive respiratory tracts and poor metabolism which makes a diffuser with essential oils a potentially toxic combo. “A cat can walk through a room with a diffuser and get liver trauma, start drooling and get a drunken walk,” according to Dr. Stephens. It could potentially kill them.

Is Febreze toxic to cats?

Contrary to rumors alleging that Febreze causes serious illness or death in pets, our veterinary toxicology experts at APCC regard Febreze fabric freshener products to be safe for use in households with pets. As with any product, it is important that you always follow label instructions for use.

Is scented litter harmful to cats?

The level of essential oil contained in our litter is extremely low—just enough to keep your rooms smelling fresh, but not enough to be harmful to your cat’s health. As with any litter, if your pet shows an adverse reaction or begins to eat the litter repeatedly, please discontinue use immediately.

Can cats have coconut oil?

Although coconut oil is not poisonous to cats, it may not be the ideal addition to every cat’s diet. Any change in diet, supplements, or medications can affect your cat’s health. Depending on your cat, increased fat in the diet may lead to weight gain or digestive issues.

Is almond oil okay for cats?

Sweet almond oil is safe for cats to ingest, but any oil can cause diarrhea if ingested in large amounts.

Is Avocado Oil safe for cats?

Yes, cats can safely eat small amounts of avocado oil. Avocado oil has almost the same benefits as avocado flesh and is readily absorbed into your pet’s system. Another upside is that avocado oil contains lower levels of persin. However, it can be high in fat, so it should only be given in minimal amounts.