Protect Your Cat's Health: Safe Essential Oils To Diffuse At Home
The furry companions at your home deserve all the love and care. Of course, people cherish their cats and want to protect them from harmful ingredients. Many people wonder about using essential oils for cats. There is a lot of misinformation that circulates now and then when it comes to using them for cats. However, these myths need to be debunked as early as possible. Let's understand the safe usage of essential oils for cats and clear the myths.
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You encounter conflicting information as soon as you search for Essential oils for cats. To protect cats' internal and external health, it is important to understand the safe usage of essential oils. In the upcoming section, we will clarify the common questions about essential oils for cats and their safety.
What Exactly Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are extracted from the parts of plants. They are usually derived from the leaves, bark, roots, flowers, and stems of the plants. Their intense properties, therapeutic nature, and calming Aroma are delightful. Essential Oils are highly concentrated and purified which is why they are mainly sold in small glass and Amber bottles. Their strong nature and potency make them powerful which is why they are often used in less quantity.
Essential Oils & Cats - Debunking Common Myths
1. Myth - Citrus Essential oils are dangerous for cats
Fact
- The most common myth about essential oils is not using citrus oils around cats. The fact is that several citrus essential oils are known to be toxic for cats. A study in 1980 revealed the effects of citrus Essential oil on cats. Citrus oils are packed with constituents that repel insects and fleas.
- However, the truth is that studies use high dosages of citrus oil that is proven to be toxic for cats. A small dosage in minimal quantity and less concentration is not harmful to pets at all.
2. Myth - essential oils should not be diffused around cats
Fact
- The web is a powerhouse of contradictory information mainly about using essential oils for cats. A long list of essential oils are considered to be toxic for cats. However, they aren't toxic if you sensibly use them after taking the necessary precautions.
- A small amount of Essential oil for a certain period is claimed to offer positive and fresh Vibes in your house. The toxicity of essential oils is mainly responsible if the cat or any other pet ingests it by chance.
Safe Essential Oils For Cats
After knowing about the toxic essential oils for Cats it is important to understand the safe ones that can be diffused around home. The safe essential oils for cats are the ones that have a clean fragrance and are not too strong. Let's check them out.
1. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense Essential oil is an ideal choice for cats and other pets. It has immense properties that effectively battle bacterial and fungal infections. It also clears out MRSA, a type of bacterial infection that affects cats. The scent is light and helps with respiratory conditions and anxiousness in cats.
2. Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood Essential oil is another safe Essential oil for cats. Known for its exotic clean and crisp fragrance it clears the congestion in cats. The Essential oil is widely used in a diffuser to create a joyful ambiance around pets. One can even use it topically on cats especially before bedtime for a relaxing feel. However, do not forget the importance of dilution. Dilute it with a carrier oil and massage on the paws, ears, and chest of the pets.
3. Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium Essential oil is another safe Essential oil that treats various problems in cats. The Essential oil tackles the hair walls and reduces the shading process. It also nurtures the skin and promotes a healthy coat. The rich Essential oil is safe to use after dilution on cat skin. The calming fragrance and floral notes amuse the senses of cats and make them happy.
4. Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile Essential oil is packed with compounds that nurture a cat's health. It not only clears out bacterial infection but also provides relief from congestion and other conditions in cats. Studies have revealed that chamomile Essential oil handles overactive pets and also tackles nausea, stomach aches, and lack of appetite.
5. Turmeric Essential Oil
Turmeric Essential oil is a safe option to diffuse around cats are used for fungal infections on their body. Turmeric in general has antiseptic antibacterial and antifungal properties that prevent allergies and infections in the body. Likewise, it works for cats and shows amazing results after regular usage. However, it is better to do a patch test because certain spices have a strong fragrance and are considered to be a sensitive option for cats.
6. Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum oil can be diffused around cats as it offers remarkable benefits. Helichrysum Essential oil is rich in antiseptic and antimicrobial properties which can be used for infections and other wounds on cat's skin.
How To Properly Dilute Essential Oils For Cats?
A lot of questions arise about the safe application of essential oils for cats. The dilution process of essential oils can be daunting for many people and that's why we have prepared a guide. Here is how you can dilute essential oils for cats as per their safety.
- Combine two tablespoons of carrier oil with 3 to 4 drops of safe essential oils for cats. The best and safest essential oils to diffuse around cats are geranium oil, chamomile oil, turmeric oil, cedarwood oil, and more.
- Mix it well and take it in your palms.
- Generously massage it on your cats avoiding their eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Go slow and observe their reaction while introducing a new Aroma.
Toxic Essential Oils For Cats: Your Furry Champs Might Suffer
- Pine Essential oil
- Citrus essential oils (not all)
- Cinnamon oil
- Clove oil
- Eucalyptus Essential oil
- Pennyroyal oil
- Peppermint oil
- Wintergreen oil
- Sweet birch oil
- Lavender Essential oil
These essential oils are mostly considered to be toxic for cats and some other pets. However, there's a lot of debate about using essential oils for cats. The doctors and specialists have concluded that using essential oils for cats in a safe manner avoids toxicity. Essential oils can be used safely around cats by keeping a check on certain points and the dilution process.
In a nutshell, we can say that it all depends upon the dilution of essential oils and the condition of your cat. Essential oils should be used with extra questions and toxic wants should be avoided.
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Now that we have wrapped up the dilution process and using the Essential oil safely for Cats it is now time to check out more facts about essential oils.
When To Avoid Using Essential Oils For Cats?
There comes a time when the cats do not respond in their usual manner. In such a situation one should stop using essential oils for Cats even if they are considered to be a safe option.
- Pet owners should take necessary precautions when using essential oils for cats, especially strong and stimulating oils.
- If you're dealing with pregnant cats, diseased cats, or epileptic cats, do not use essential oils at any cost.
- If your cat is suffering from IBD or any other type of kidney disease avoid using essential oils around them even in a diffuser.
- It is better to consult a veterinarian who has deep knowledge about the safe usage of essential oils around cats.
- One should also be clear about the medical condition of their cats, safely use essential oils, and avoid the ones that might be toxic.
My Cat Ingested Unsafe Oils: What Should I Do?
Cats can promptly ingest or be exposed to essential oils that are not safe for them. If your cat swallows it in a large quantity or the bottle spills on them, it can become quite chaotic.
- In that case, it is better to avoid using water on them.
- Do not wash it off using water as it will spread the oil on their skin which might lead to allergic reactions.
- If the cat swallows the oil by chance in a large quantity it is better to take them to a vet. The vet will help to flush out the essential oil from the cat's internal system through their methods.
- The best way to prevent the allergic reaction of essential oils on a cat's skin is to massage it with a carrier oil. If the Essential oil drops on their skin you can simply massage it further with coconut oil or almond oil. This will induce the dilution process and will further break down the potency of essential oils.
Signs Of Essential Oil Poisoning In Cats
Cats are mostly subject to essential oils poisoning if they are exposed for a longer time. If the cat is affected by Essential oil poisoning, instant action should be taken. For their survival, it is crucial to run to a vet for immediate recovery. Here are some of the major signs of Essential oil poisoning in cats.
- Lethargic feeling
- Dullness
- Depression
- Difficulty in breathing
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Muscle tremors
- Shakeful walking
- Frequent shaking
- Seizures
- Collapsing nature