Learn more. And cats appear to be able to smell 14 times better than people. The truth is that we dont really know for sure. There are two main ways of applying essential oils to cats, topically and through a diffuser. Despite rumors about the danger of Febreze to pets, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center reviewed Febreze's fabric freshener product and found that they are safe for use around pets. Lemon, lime and orange. If you're In severe cases, it can even lead to pneumonia. Smoke can cause pets to experience upper respiratory issues such as sneezing, congestion, or watery eyes. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce. It is particularly helpful for cats that may suffer from inflammation of the skin. Geranium. The oil is extracted from the heartwood and used in perfumes, cosmetics, and incense. When compared to humans, their noses are 14 times stronger than ours. Dont get me wrong; I like things to smell as wonderful as the next person. All we can do is trust the research that has been conducted so far. However, as with any essential oil, its always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian before using it around your feline friend. Find out from the following posts: Hi! It takes a bit more time to work than an air freshener that you can spray around the room, but it also absorbs the odor rather than masks it. People like to burn incense, whether it be a stick or a cone, for several different reasons. Chamomile helps to reduce stress and anxiety If you are worried that your pet is having an emergency or if you have specific medical questions related to your pets current or chronic medical conditions, please contact or visit your veterinarian, an animal-specific poison control hotline, or your local emergency veterinary care center. If you are interested in the best and safest ways to use essential oils on your cat, read on. Beyond the dangers of incense, the sandalwood fragrance is also a problem for cats. Be sure to choose only 100% pure essential oils and those that are safe for your pet. Before using essential oil products and diffusers in your home, speak with your vet to ensure the health and safety of your furry friend. Mood | Confident & Here However, it is not advisable to apply essential oils in their concentrated form directly onto a cats skin. Inappropriate urination, otherwise referred to as elimination issues, are frustrating for all pet parents. Here are a few other essential oils that can be used safely around cats: Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur. Whats a self-respecting homeowner to do? Meet, the Grounded Candle! While there are plenty of foods you won't be able to share with your feline friend, finding Thanksgiving food safe for cats is easier than you think. Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Is it safe to smudge around dogs? But if your pet nibbles on some of the potpourri, it could cause choking, digestive upset, or even a digestive obstruction, which could require surgery to remove from the stomach or intestines. However, according to the ASPCA, Febreze is one of the few air fresheners that is safe for use around pets, including cats. It depends mostly on how much water they, Cats may not value your privacy, especially when youre just trying to sneak off to the bathroom. One study found that sandalwood oil was more likely to cause eye irritation than other essential oils. When in doubt, always err on the side of diluting more than less. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Some people believe that it is perfectly safe, while others believe that it can cause skin reactions and eye irritation. I started this website after my cat, Louie, almost died from a case of botulism (a type of food poisoning often caused by bacteria that grow on food items). It is, therefore, safe to A comprehensive health check for your kitten at six months is an important step toward ensuring a long, healthy, life. Your email address will not be published. Note that potpourri and scented candles can also cause asthma and coughing fits in cats and dogs, as highlighted above. It reduces inflammation, and a few drops will help relieve dog flu symptoms. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. The research on the subject of essential oils both in humans and pets is not concrete enough for us to definitively state that a cat will benefit from essential oils in a certain way. Cats have a very strong sense of smell and often use the stench of their own urine to mark their territory. Hence, establishing pee zones and no pee zones is absolutely essential! Cats hate being subjected to certain strong smells such as citrus spray, essential oils, vinegar, and lavender. And, as always, check with your veterinarian. This gave her the opportunity to help improve the lives of many animals in her community as well as work with the rescue she loved. A pet lover, Oluwatosin is a biotechnologist and a professional writer and editor who has written about animals for many years. If you have used essential oil on yourself or your clothing, avoid contact with your pet until you have washed up. To avoid the flame but keep the smell, you can place a jar candle on a warming plate. Essential oils, in general, arent considered to be friendly around cats. Here are the safest foods, Why your cat is peeing everywhere (and what to do about it), Cat peeing everywhere? Geranium promotes a healthy coat and skin Some of our teammates in Seattle, Washington, use this air purifier, which has greatly helped with the smoke from forest fires. Do cats sleep more in winter because theyre depressed? It can be diluted and applied topically, or diffused into the air. My goal is to find the most informative content on anything feline-related and share it with fellow hardworking kitty lovers. Avoid using diffusers that can be tipped over by an inquisitive feline. More good news, the better ones also help to remove fine particles from the air that could irritate your pet's lungs. I used and sold it in my veterinary practice. The oil can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney damage. Which other essential oil isnt safe around your kitty? A Sampler Pack Of 6 Popular Essential Oils: Lagunamoon Essential Oil Set. This candle comes in many scents and works well at eliminating pet odors, as well as other smells. As an online informational resource, Preventive Vet is unable to and does not provide specific medical advice or counseling. If you think that your cat is suffering from poisoning due to your sandalwood incense, take them to a veterinarian to make sure their symptoms are treated properly. As an Amazon Associate, we may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases but at no extra cost to you. If you do choose to use essential oils, they should be heavily diluted to reduce the impact on your pet. People are incorporating them into everyday use: cleaning spray, hand sanitizer, fragrance, laundry and skin moisturizers, just to name a few. If you cannot live without a particular oil, you can use it with certain precautions. The air filled with the scent is expelled at intervals making it ideal for use around pets. All types of diffusers should be kept out of reach of pets at all times. Yes, if used poorly, your cat can die from exposure to essential oils especially if they are concentrated. Fortunately, there are plenty of safe ways to keep your house smelling pleasant that dont involve sandalwood incense or other dangerous fragrances. Required fields are marked *. Cats are very sensitive to smoke. Santalols actually have cancer-preventive properties as have been shown in this study. According to the Canadian Veterinary Medicine Association (CVMA), the following are just some of the essential oils toxic to cats: In addition to the essential oils that you buy individually, they often appear in other household products such as paint thinner (turpentine is an essential oil) and insect repellent, which has a high risk of fatal reactions for cats, noted the CVMA. Even though it would be great to have a simple definite answer to this question, there isnt one. It can cause mild skin irritation or stomach upset if touched while its wet or ingested, respectively, but the fabric freshener is generally safe around animals. Burning incense in the home Not only will they suffer from smoke inhalation, but they could also have a bad reaction to the essential oils or plant materials used to make the incense. The thing with essential oils is that their effects matter from one cat to another. Some people believe that sandalwood can cause allergic reactions, while others believe that it is perfectly safe. But even though there seem to be a lot of great reasons for us to use them, their use isnt safe for our pets. Did you know that less than 10% of their ingredients are disclosed to the public?? Why is my cat shedding so much? However, there have been some reports of adverse effects in animals, so it is always best to use caution when using any essential oil around pets. -Pay attention to how your pet is reacting. AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Kitty Devotees is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The wood from this tree has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Place a bandage over the spot, and check for any reactions such as redness, itching, or inflammation. The wood has a natural woody odor and is often harvested for use in cosmetics, soaps, perfumes, and burning incense. They can even provide some health benefits. Final thoughts: Essential oils can be a great way to improve your cats health and wellbeing, but its important to use them safely and sparingly. What Is The Difference Between Bonding And HardWall. Your experience with essential oils will vary depending on your cats breed, age, size, and health condition. Essential oils are very concentrated and can be irritating to your pets skin if they are not diluted properly. Always check the phenol content of an oil. Of these 133 VOCs, 24 are classified as toxic or hazardous under U.S. federal laws, and each product emitted at least one of these compounds. Not all cats have respiratory illnesses but some do. WebIs Sandalwood safe for dogs smell? Stick to the safety tips above and stop using it if you sense something is amiss. By Fredrick Aven Updated on January 1, 2023. Studies done on the oil show that it possesses potent anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-anxiety properties. For cats, you might consider lavender, frankincense or chamomile. All we can do is trust the research that has been conducted so far. People are capable of discriminating about one trillion different odors. Choosing a warmer with an automatic shut-off is much safer as well. When inhaled, sandalwood oil can cause irritation to a cats respiratory system. The worst offenders in the ingredient list are volatile organic compounds (VOC). Keep your cat away from areas where sandalwood oil has been used. Like it says in the name, this diffuser uses heat to evaporate the oil and then release it into the atmosphere. But if you notice your pet losing significantly more hair than usual, you should look for a deeper issue that could be causing the excess shedding. With an uptick in online retailers and a renewed interest in natural health care, essential oils are more accessible than ever. Overall, sandalwood incense is safe for cats as long as you take some basic precautions. Essential oils can be toxic through skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion for your cat. However, it isnt safe to use around cats. Our cats are more than just furry roommates; they're members of our family. In short, there aren't any safe essential oils for cats; they all have the potential to be toxic to your fur baby. Christian is the Editor-in-Chief of Excited Cats and one of its original and primary contributors. Washing your cat in water infused with essential oils for 2 to 5 minutes can also have a positive effect on your cats skin and fur. With Thanksgiving upon us, you may be asking yourself, "Can cats eat turkey?" Be sure to choose only 100% pure essential oils and those that are safe for your pet. Some studies have found that sandalwood can cause skin reactions, while others have found that it is perfectly safe. When getting a diffuser, it is best to get a slow one. Many other essential oils are commonly used for aromatherapy or just to get rid of bad smells, and these should never be used around your cat. Essential oils can be toxic through skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion for your cat. Over time, showerheads can become clogged with deposits of calcium, magnesium, lime, silica, and other minerals. Making matters worse, the aromatic plant materials and essential oils used to create the scent in incense can also lead to all the other problems mentioned above. Sandalwood oil is toxic to cats and can cause serious health problems. Sandalwood incense is a common way for many people to freshen up their homes and keep their living areas smelling nice. When they go through a cats skin or get ingested, they damage a cats major organs including the liver. Have you ever wondered, "Can cats eat turkey?" 8 Reasons for This Behavior, Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? It doesnt have any toxic components making it relatively safe to be around cats as well. Citrus oil (specifically, d-limonene) Tea tree oil, in particular, can be very harmful to your cat. Once you've reduced the nasty kitty smells, there are several cat-safer methods to add other pleasant aromas to your home. Sadly, they can pose a serious risk to pets. Whether you've recently adopted your feline friend, or she's been your constant companion for years, inappropriate urination is a problem you want to nip in the bud -- sooner rather than later. These essential oils are dangerous and should be avoided: Sandalwood. Since pets have a more Dogs can sense 100 million and cats 200 million. Use an indoor air purifier. Fortunately, there are plenty of safe ways to keep It also increases blood circulation and improves the skin's general condition. For more detailed information on the safe use of essential oils on or around pets, you may want to refer to Dr. Melissa Shelton's website and Animal Desk Reference book. Cats are especially sensitive to many essential oils due to their inability to properly metabolize them. It is very unlikely to cause poisoning in pets since none of the oil lands on any surface. If its ingested or gets on your cats fur, it can cause several health problems. Some incense sticks may contain chemicals or fragrances that are toxic to cats. Many air fresheners arent safe to use around cats, so many cat owners assume that Febreze isnt the best choice either. There is a lot of debate surrounding the safety of essential oils around pets. Learn more about Hills commitment to sustainability. Increased smoke in the home puts your cat at risk for developing. Burning incense is among the various methods you can use to make your home smell nice. was gone. When you are preparing your recipes, be sure to keep your pets from sampling the ingredients. Preventive Vet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The opposite is also true. I then remembered the sample candle, and within an hour, the "smell of death" (the dog survived!) Scents have a powerful impact on people. | Hill's Pet, common houseplants that are toxic for cats, Canadian Veterinary Medicine Association (CVMA), Cats are great at getting onto high surfaces, What to Expect at Your Kitten's 6-Month Health Check, Moving & Relocation with Your Cat: Tips & Suggestions, The Importance of Wellness Visits for Your Senior Cat, Wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint and mint. However, this study was not conclusive and more research needs to be done in order to say for sure whether or not sandalwood can cause eye irritation. Our analysis found 133 different VOCs emitted from the 25 products, with an average of 17 VOCs per product. WebThe fastest, safest, and free way of finding your next roommate. These include lavender, chamomile, and valerian. Alpha-santalol can be used to arrest specific cancer cells via apoptosis. Some pet owners absolutely love essential oils for themselves and their cats. Sadly, potpourri and potpourri products are not as relaxing for pets. Just like people, the amount a cat pees each day can vary. At Excited Cats, we regularly consult with licensed veterinarians and other industry experts. WebEssential Oils Toxic to Cats. The smoke and particulates released when you burn incense can cause respiratory problems when inhaled. It has a variety of benefits, including being able to help soothe and calm the mind, as well as relieve stress. If ingested such as after getting on your pets fur and then licked off during grooming certain essential oils can cause digestive upset, neurologic problems, and other, more serious concerns. Both the Pet Poison Helpline and the ASPCA havent listed sandalwood as a hazardous product for pets. Some essential oils are safe to be used for cats, including copaiba, helichrysum, and frankincense. However, sandalwood oil is generally considered to be non-toxic to animals. You can also freshen the air by making your own air freshener. Pet Safe Incense Sticks . Diffusing oils around your house should be safe for cats, since the oil is extremely diluted, and not directly applied or used as dietary supplements. While sandalwood incense might be a fun way to make your house smell nice, there are plenty of other options that are safer for you and your cat. Some love how it freshens up the room with a smell that lingers for hours; others do it for spiritual purposes and for some health reasons. Reed diffusers are excellent for pets because the amount released is so little. A pet owner should always consult their veterinarian before 2. the cationic detergents that allow the oils and water to come together. Pine and other flora are toxic, but you might not be able to tell what each dried piece of potpourri is in a mix, especially since they're often artificially colored. The cationic detergents in liquid potpourri can cause a wide array of potentially serious problems for your pets, especially cats, including: If you use liquid potpourri, be sure to clean up all spills quickly and keep your pets (especially your cats) far away from them. Dust frequently. If youre looking for a pet safe incense stick, look no further than Pet Safe Incense Sticks. Dogs are not affected by lavender. Its a favorite candle within my tribe, maybe yours too! This means that it is unlikely to cause any serious side effects if your cat ingests it. When you have kitty roommates, you want to create a safe household for cats, which means keeping harmful substances, such as essential oils, out of reach. Even a quick lick off a paw or fur can cause serious problems. Use baking soda to absorb unwanted odors on furniture and carpeting. When you own cats or any pet these tips are good to keep in mind. For cats, you might consider using lavender, frankincense or chamomile. Why Isnt Sandalwood Incense Safe for Cats? While the scent of sandalwood is often thought to be calming, some cats can be sensitive to strong smells. The smoke can act as an irritant, which may cause your cat to cough or have an allergic reaction. However, the area of the brain that analyzes odor is 40 times larger in dogs than in people. Brushing your feline is a great way to eliminate dirt, dander, and dead hair from his coat. But does the benefit of having a pleasant-smelling home outweigh the potential health risk that burning incense poses for your cat? Many people will burn scented candles to help set the mood, especially around the holidays. Using Sandalwood Essential Oil Safely. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. However, if used responsibly and in diluted forms, the following essential oils are considered safe: As explained, almost all essential oils can be dangerous to cats. Proper use involves using the oil in diluted concentrations and storing it safely afterward.The effects of essential oils on cats differ from cat to cat so it is very important to seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian. This purifier is a good one for use in smaller areas or on desktops. A cats sense of smell is 14 times stronger than that of a human being, making them more sensitive to strong odors. You can buy these candles on Amazon this is one of my favorite scents or on Chewy.com. Naturally, if you are new to essential oils you must still be wondering, can I use essential oils with and/or on my cat? Heres what to know about seasonal changes in felines, Experts at Preventative Vet say incense can be harmful, What you can do to help your cat after surgery and show your pet how much you love them, Bengal cats: What to know about these quirky descendants of Asian leopards. Burning incense, especially at the source, produces a very intense aroma. The short answer is, peppermint oil is sadly not safe for cats. It is important to know that even though a scent (or method of dispensing it) is safe for you or even a small child, doesn't mean that it'll necessarily be safe for, on, or even around your cats and dogs. Your senior cat could be hiding something other than your car keys. What is incense? They also recommend simmering things such as cinnamon sticks, vanilla, cloves, or mint tea to create a pleasant odor in your home. For cats, you might consider lavender, frankincense or chamomile. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. So whether you're looking for guidance on how to make your home more energy efficient or just want some inspiration for dinner tonight, be sure to check out Arew! Respiratory illnesses include asthma, FVR, and FCV. Some of the dangers associated with essential oils for cats include the following: A large majority of essential oils contain compounds that cats have no way of digesting. Source: www.evitamins.com. All we can do is trust the research that has been conducted so far and hope for the best. When it comes to sandalwood, there is a lot of debate on whether or not it is safe to breathe. Sandalwood is a popular essential oil that is used in many different ways. Top 8 Oils for Cats and Dogs and Their Benefits Fish Oil. In general, sandalwood is safe for pets when used correctly. Web2859 Centerwood Dr N , Jacksonville, FL 32218-9203 is a single-family home listed for rent at /mo. When you share your life with cats, you expect to deal with some shedding. Both the roots and bark of the tree contain yellowish aromatic oil known as sandalwood oil. Some have even used essential oils to improve the quality of life for their cats. Peppermint attacks a fleas central nervous. Sandalwood, frankincense, and cinnamon, all basic fragrances from long ago, are still among the most popular scents. Tammy Slater is the founder of arew.org, a home and garden blog that provides inspiration and resources for homeowners and renters alike. What does a blinking blue light on a smoke detector mean? Essential oils in potpourri pose the same risks to pets mentioned above. These oils are so high in concentration that cats and other pets find them overbearing. At the end of the day, we dont really know for sure whether or not sandalwood is safe to breathe. The holiday season is a time of gratitude, togetherness, and good food. If you are concerned about your dogs safety, please consult with your veterinarian before using any products containing sandalwood. My clients bought them, too, and loved all the "fragrances," including the festive holiday scents. Essential oils are the extracts of plants known for their aromatic and/or medicinal properties, such as rose and frankincense. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning include difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, drooling, vomiting, tremors, wobbliness and low heart rate, reported the Pet Poison Helpline. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien. Proper administration also ensures that cats get the best from the application of the oil. It can, for example, cause allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis. ExcitedCats is reader-supported. by Lea Jacobson, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist | Feb 21, 2016 | mini EO crash courses. A Refreshing, Citrusy Bergamot Oil That Lifts The Mood: Healing Solutions Bergamot Essential Oil. Does a sniff of peppermint invigorate you? Since cats have a much lower number of liver enzymes that are capable of metabolizing the oils, theyre more susceptible to bad reactions to the oils when they come into contact with them. They have car fresheners too. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Veterinarians.org does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Fish oil is packed with two essential When a pet comes into contact with potpourri, it can cause vomiting, fever, drooling, difficulty breathing, and lack of appetite. When she's not blogging or spending time with her family, you can usually find her rooting around in the garden or at the hardware store. Pennyroyal oil. Scents That Are Harmful to Pets & Which Scents Are Safe, Please do not ask emergency or other specific medical questions about your pets. The expiration date also labeled Arew is the go-to source for all your home improvement, gardening, cooking, and family needs. If you are not receiving newsletters, please check your spam folder. Essential oils are oils extracted from plants then concentrated and purified for different uses. See additional information. If they seem uncomfortable or start showing signs of distress, remove them from the area and stop using the oil.