Are essential oils safe for cats?
The simple answer to this question is Yes and No. There are some essential oils that are quite safe for your cat but it is advisable to use them sparingly. Essential oils are organic compounds distilled from plants that help in providing fragrance and taste. They can also be used in insecticides, antibacterials, herbal remedies, and many other useful products.
Here are some of the essential oils that are safe for your cat;
- Cedarwood oil
- Lemongrass oil
- Rosemary
How to keep cats safe from essential oils
There are a few tips you need to keep in mind to keep your cat safe from harmful essential oils.
- Create an easy way out for your cat to leave the house or the room if it feels stuffy from essential oils and warmers
- Keep the essential oils out of reach of your cat and if possible in a lockable cabinet
- Avoid essential oil diffusers especially if your cat has underlying respiratory disorders
- Do not apply highly concentrated oils to your cat
- Avoid using essential oils in rooms where your cat frequent the most
Related: 10 Plants That Are Poisonous to Cats
Essential oils that are harmful to your cat
The following are some of the harmful essential oils for cats that you should avoid at all costs.
- Pine oil
- Wintergreen oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Cinnamon oil
- Sweet birch oil
- Clove oil
- Ylang-ylang oil
- Peppermint oil
- Pennyroyal oil
- Citrus oil
Signs of essential oils poisoning
What are the signs of essential oil poisoning in cats?
- Lethargy
- Difficulty in breathing
- Fragrance in the hair, breath, or vomit
- Vomiting
- Uncoordinated walking
- Redness or burns on the tongue, lips, or skin
- Muscle tremors
- Drooling
Related: Can Cats Eat Dog Food? (Everything You Need to Know)
In conclusion, not all essential oils are safe for cats. There are some which can be fatal if ingested in large quantities. Therefore, keep all essential oils away from your cats to keep them safe.
