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ESSENTIAL OILS CAN BE UNSAFE FOR YOUR PETS. HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

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Despite their delightful fragrance and atmosphere-enhancing benefits, some essential oils are toxic to dogs and cats. But don’t fret, you don’t have to swear off all essential oils if you have a pet. You just have to take the proper precautions. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pets safe.

Cats Are Most Sensitive

According to the ASPCA, cats are particularly sensitive to essential oils and can experience “gastrointestinal upset, central nervous system depression and even liver damage could occur if ingested in significant quantities.” 

Always Tread Carefully

There’s been an uptick in essential oil incidents in recent years as more and more pet owners have turned to holistic and natural remedies to treat skin conditions or to keep fleas and other parasites at bay. Always dig in and do your research before treating your pet with a product containing essential oils. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian. They’re the pros, after all, and it’s much better to be safe than sorry.

What About Essential Oil Diffusers?

The ASPCA recommends confining your use of essential oils to areas your cat or dog cannot access. Even if you’re using a diffuser, there’s always a chance they could knock it over. Plus, diffusers send microdroplets into the air that could be absorbed into your pet’s fur, skin, or lungs. Even if you’re using an oil considered safe for them, too much of it might prove irritating to your pets.

The Ones to Worry About

According to Pet Poison Helpline, oils known to cause poisoning in cats include (but not restricted to):

  • Wintergreen

  • Sweet Birch

  • Citrus

  • Pine

  • Ylang Ylang

  • Peppermint

  • Cinnamon

  • Pennyroyal

  • Clove

  • Eucalyptus

  • Tea Tree

The list of oils toxic to dogs is largely the same as the one for cats, according to the American Kennel Club. It includes (and, again, is not restricted to):

  • Wintergreen

  • Sweet Birch

  • Citrus

  • Pine

  • Ylang Ylang

  • Peppermint

  • Cinnamon

  • Pennyroyal

  • Tea Tree

What Are the Safest Oils to Use Around Pets?

Some essential oils are considered safe for dogs, including: 

  • Myrrh

  • Frankincense

  • Chamomile 

  • Lavender

  • Ginger 

  • Rosemary 

  • Bergamot

The list for cats is much shorter. It includes: 

  • Frankincense 

  • Lavender 

  • Bergamot 

  • Chamomile

One Final Thing

Keep in mind that our animals experience the world differently than us from a sensory perspective. What registers as a faint smell to us might overpower the senses of your kitty or pup. So be the best pet parent you can be and always keep their comfort in mind!

Visit the Carrington Oaks blog for more tips on living your best life in Buda, Texas.

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