What are essential oils?
Essential oils are volatile organic compounds that have been distilled from plant materials. They have several potential uses in homeopathic medicine for humans including aromatherapy and pain relief. Essential oils can be found everywhere from perfumes to flavorings, but currently we are discussing the 100% pure essential oils. There are several companies that sell oils and the market is not well regulated so do your research before purchasing from a company.
Helpful or Hazardous?
A major concern with essential oils is that they are very rapidly absorbed. While that is helpful when using it as a treatment, it can be harmful if your pet gets into one that is potentially toxic. Cats are of particular concern because they lack an enzyme that is needed for metabolizing certain compounds.
How are they exposed?
Topical: Pets can be exposed when owners have essential oils on their skin or clothes and are petted. They can also be exposed when people purposefully apply them to their pets in an effort to treat an ailment. If your pet has potentially been exposed topically to an essential oil, please call us.
Ingestion: Ingestion can occur from licking the oil off their fur, or from licking up spills. Depending on the oil ingestion can be serious, please call us if you suspect your pet has ingested an essential oil.
Inhalation: Many people use ultrasonic diffusers which produce microdroplets of the oil and spread them into the air. Cats in particular can be exposed to ingesting those oils by licking them off of their fur. It is important to be mindful about where you are diffusing. Do not diffuse around food or water bowls. Make sure to diffuse in a well ventilated area where your pets can leave if they do not like the scent. Remember their sense of smell is much better than ours and it may be overwhelming for them! Some of these oils can be toxic when exposed to smaller doses over long periods of time, so diffusing next to your bed at night when your cat normally sleeps on you is not a good idea.
If you feel your pet might benefit from essential oils, please talk to your veterinarian before applying any to your pet.