Essential Oils Harmful to Cats and Dogs!!!

Friday 13 April 2018

With the most of us now wanting to have a healthier alternative lifestyle, we are now extending this to our pets at home with healthier ways to feed diet supplements formulated primarily from oil blends, natural products and some of us believe that using essential oils will also help keep our pets healthy, but are they all as safe to our pets as we believe?

There are many essential oils which can be harmful to our pets which might not be known to those who are using them with all their good intentions. Here are a few things to remember when using these oils (if in doubt seek advice before using)

1. Cats and dogs have an enhanced sense of smell, so using diffusers could become overwhelming.
2. Cats’ livers cannot metabolize some of the compounds in essential oils. Therefore, they may be more susceptible to toxicity. 
3. Keep oils stored away from pets.
4. If a pet accidentally ingests essential oils, clients should call their vets right away.
5. Remind clients that animals react and absorb the oils differently than humans do. Any oils being used on or around animals should be diluted by water or a carrier oil.
6. Some products are not made from pure oils; look for additional ingredients that could be detrimental to pets before using.
7. Some oils could cause chemical burns if applied directly to the skin.
8. Adverse reactions to oils include squinting, excessive drooling, scratching, increased breathing rate and lethargy.

Reactions, symptoms & warning signs!!!

• Fragrance or scent on hair coat, skin, or breath or in vomit.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Difficulty walking or uncoordinated gait.
• Drooling.
• Lethargy or weakness.
• Muscle tremors.
• Pawing at the mouth or face.
• Redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin.
• Vomiting.

If you believe your pet has ingested or reacted to any essential oils you have used on them, please look out for the warning signs. If your pet displays any of the above, please seek help and advice from your local vet.

Harmful oils (popular)

Below are a few specific oils you may want to advise clients to steer clear of.