Essential oils are the highly concentrated form of certain plants, and they can be extremely powerful. They can be used for a wide variety of purposes, from pain relief to reducing anxiety and stress. While some oils are safe for use on dogs, others can be toxic if ingested or absorbed through the skin. If you are thinking of using essential oil for your pet, talk to a holistic veterinarian, herbalist or aromatherapist who is knowledgeable about the proper use and safe concentrations of these natural products.
If you decide to try essential oils for your pet, be sure to use only high-quality, pure products from reputable companies. Also be careful to follow recommended dilution ratios, which are usually between a half and a full ounce of carrier oil for each drop of essential oil. It’s also a good idea to discuss the dilution of any new oil with your veterinarian, especially if you already use other natural remedies for your dog.
Many people believe that if something is a natural product, it must be safe for your pet. This is not always true, and a product can be even more harmful than something synthetic or chemically processed. Essential oils can be very strong, and even a small amount can cause an adverse reaction in some pets, including respiratory distress.
A number of oils are considered unsafe or toxic for dogs and can result in a host of symptoms, including breathing difficulties, nausea, tremors or weakness, drooling, fatigue, rash, vomiting and collapse. Depending on the oil and the severity of the exposure, some of these signs can be severe and life-threatening, so you should seek emergency help if your pet shows any of them.
The exact type of oil that can be dangerous to a cat or other small animal (such as a hamster, rabbit or guinea pig) will depend on the species and the individual pet, but some of the most common include:
The Dodo spoke to several experts to learn about which essential oils are harmful to cats, and what symptoms to watch out for if your pet comes into contact with these volatile substances. Here are the top oils to avoid:
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