Over the past few months, there have been an alarming number of social media posts warning of the dangers of essential oil diffusion around pets. Cats are definitely more sensitive to essential oil inhalation than dogs. Symptoms may be subtle at first; advanced liver damage may occur before you notice a problem. If you are interested in more information about the safe use of essential oils for various ailments or behavioral issues, I recommend exploring animalEO essential oil products made by Dr. Melissa Shelton.
Our animals are smaller and more sensitive than we are when it comes to using essential oil products. Treatments can affect animals differently than they do humans and each animal within a species can have have variable tolerance levels. Oils can be toxic for our pets; it is imperative to use only the highest quality oils that have been proven to be safe. Symptoms of toxicity may include drooling, vomiting, tremors, liver failure, seizures, loss of appetite, respiratory distress, coughing, sneezing, reverse sneezing, and death.
Dr. Shelton wrote a great article regarding the safety of essential oil use:
"Which oils are safe to use around (insert my cat, dog, bird, etc...) and which oils are not?"
The awful truth? You may not know until you use them! I know, that is not the answer you would like to get. You want a cut and dried, "use this oil, but not this oil" sort of scenario. But, it is just not accurate.
Read more here. The Aromatic Cat and The Aromatic Dog are also great resources for safe essential oil use with our pets.
Not only are diffusers a potential source of toxicity, but aromatherapy candles and potpourri are also concerns. Essential oils should never be used full strength on animals (unless otherwise noted by a trained veterinarian like Dr. Shelton) and should always be highly diluted with a carrier oil. Always buy high quality oils specifically made for use in animals. Use them only under the instruction and guidance of a professional with knowledge of essential oil usage. Many of the plants and herbs used to make essential oils are safe for use with pets, but the concentrated oils can become toxic if not used properly. If you sleep with an oil diffuser in your bedroom, keep the door open so that your pets can leave the room.
High quality essential oils are generally fairly expensive. If you find a cheap version, beware those products may have more potential for contamination, may be very diluted, or may not be pure.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or replace consulting a primary veterinarian for individualized care.