Unlike humans, dogs and cats lack the proper enzymes to break down and digest many essential oils.
Even then, experts say there are several pure essential oils you should avoid diffusing and direct use entirely.
You should always avoid any direct contact and never apply essential oils (deemed pet-safe or otherwise) directly to your pet's coat or skin.
Essential Oils that are considered Pet-Safe:
- Cedarwood Oil: Natural insect repellent
- Chamomile Oil: Helps calm the gastrointestinal system
- Frankincense Oil: Soothes joint pain
- Helichrysum Oil: Known for heart, skin, and coat benefits
- Lavender Oil: Calming effect
- Rose Oil: Calming effect
- Peppermint Oil (use in moderation): Natural remedy against fleas & ticks
Here is a list of known harmful essentials oils to dogs and cats.
- Phenol Oils (Anise Oil, Clove Oil, Basil Oil, Oregano Oil, Thyme Oil, Calamus Oil or Cane Oil, Cassia Oil, Cinnamon Oil)
- Pennyroyal oil
- Pine Oil
- Tea Tree Oil
- Citrus Oils (Oils that contain d-limonene, including Citronella Oil, Bergamot Oil, Grapefruit Oil, Lemon Oil, Lime Oil, Orange Oil, and Tangerine Oil)
- Sandalwood Oil
- Ylang ylang Oil
- Menthol oils or mint oils (including Eucalyptus Oil, Peppermint Oil, Spearmint Oil, Sweet Birch Oil, and Wintergreen Oil)
- Juniper Oil
More Essential Oils Toxic for Cats:
- Basil Oil
- Dill Oil
- Fennel Oil
- Geranium Oil
- Lemongrass Oil
- Myrrh Oil
- Nutmeg Oil
- Rosemary Oil
- Sassafras Oil
- Tarragon Oil
- Wormwood Oil
This list is not exhaustive and you should inquire with your vet if you are using any essential oil, or essential based product. Information courtesy of 24PetWatch & Pet Poison Hotline
What are the signs of scent poisoning?
If a candle or room spray, or home good item is potent enough, these adverse effects can come on rather rapidly. Toxicity symptoms may include:
- difficulty breathing
- wobbly walking
- drooling
- lethargy or weakness
- muscle tremors
- pawing at the mouth or face
- redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin
- vomiting
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