Everything you need to know about Oils & Pets
“I want to diffuser essential oils in my home, but are oils safe to use around pets?”
Time after time I hear friends say “oh I can’t use essential oils because I have a [insert pet here].” These same friends, mind you, are burning candles, using synthetic fragrance plug in air fresheners, and cleaning their homes with toxic chemicals. With a little education and extra caution, essential oils can be safe for the entire family, pets included. Much safer than the chemical laden alternatives, that’s for sure!
First and foremost, if your pet is pregnant, nursing, or has a medical condition, always consult a veterinarian prior to use. These are general safety guidelines based on our personal research and experience — when in doubt consult with your veterinarian.
Meet Latte — our resident oily kitten…
Latte happens to be the second oily cat in our family since I began my journey with essential oils and, much like her sister, is known for gravitating towards the blends that her little body needs. She’s also the first to leave the room when I’ve diffused or personally used an oil she’s not a fan of.
Cats are simple. Have you ever known a cat to stay in a situation that made them uncomfortable? Me neither.
Latte’s favorite blends include lemon, lavender, and peppermint in the diffusers to support seasonal discomfort as well as Gentle Baby for supporting her emotional needs like when she was in heat or when the Texas storms start rolling in. It’s a favorite blend in the house for calming everyone down, humans included.
Let’s start with some common sense
Essential oils are concentrated compounds extracted from plants. If a plant is a known toxin to the animals in your home, use with appropriate caution to avoid contact with your pets or avoid using entirely to lean on the side of extreme caution.
General guidelines for using oils around pets
Avoid using essential oils on or in close proximity to dogs and cats under eight weeks old. They are quickly developing and it is difficult to maintain a safe dilution ration.
Always observe how your pets respond when introducing new oils - use common sense and good judgement when observing their behavior.
Animals are more sensitive to essential oils than humans, heavily dilute and use in moderation when applying topically.
Never use oils around pets’ eyes, mouth, nose, or sensitive areas.
Always check in with your veterinarian prior to administering oils internally to your pets.
Always store essential oils out of reach of pets to avoid accidental internal consumption.
General guidelines for cats
When diffusing around cats, never leave a cat with a diffuser in a closed space.
Cats will exit a situation that makes them uncomfortable - always make sure to give them that out.
Avoid applying oils high in phenols such as Oregano, Wintergreen, Clove, Mountain Savory, and Thyme.
Avoid applying citrus oils on cats or having your cat digest them.
General guidelines for dogs
Dogs tend to stay loyal to their owner and will stay in place even when uncomfortable.
Look for signs of distress when introducing new oils such as whining, sniffing, nervousness, and excessive scratching.
Acclimating pets to essential oils
When you first start diffusing oils around pets, use fewer drops of oil and diffuse for shorter periods of time. Pets have a heightened sense of smell so less is more as they acclimate.
Wear essential oils on yourself so that pets can get used to being around the scent with someone they trust.
Place a drop of oil in your hands and rub together. Allow pets to come to you to check it out on their terms - never force oils upon pets.
Diffuse calming oils near places of relaxation for pets - around their favorite nap spot or in a quiet room - always keeping the door open to give them an out if uncomfortable.
Always make sure your pets have access to fresh air and water.
Bottom line?
Never force essential oils on pets. Less is more, start slow, and let your pets acclimate on their own terms. Keep an eye on your pets just like you would carefully watch your own body’s reactions as you introduce new oils and products. Use your oils with caution, but without fear - pets can benefit from the therapeutic properties of essential oils just like humans!
Trust your oils!
Some companies do not use pure essential oils in their products. Always check for additional ingredients that could be harmful to pets. Choose essential oils that are 100% pure, unadulterated, and free from synthetics and other fillers. Know and trust the company that you choose to use around pets.
Young living has an entire line of pet products and essential oils pre-diluted and carefully blended with your pets’ safety in mind.
More resources…
Essential Oils Desk Reference for Animals // Practical Handbook of Veterinary Homeopathy // Animal Desk Reference II
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