Essential Oils and Cats: A Potentially Toxic Mix
Aromatherapy for Cats
Aromatherapy, potpourri, and the use of essential oils have been popular for decades. What kitchen hasn't delighted visitors with the fragrant scent of
apple pie spices, whether from the oven or from a pot of simmering potpourri? In fact, at one time, certain essential oils were considered to be safe for cats,
and were recommended for such uses as treating ear mite infestations, upper respiratory problems, and for stress relief. In recent years, however, compelling
evidence has accumulated that essential oils can be toxic to cats, whether taken internally, applied to the skin, or simply inhaled.
The liver is most often the organ which is affected by essential oils. Cats' livers are simply not the same as humans' livers, and they lack the ability to properly metabolize the various compounds in essential oils. A more complete and technical description of this insufficiency can be found in this article by Dr. Khan.
Toxicity in cats can occur very quickly, through internal or external application, or over a longer period of time, through repeated or continuous inhalation of essential oils, but either way, it can lead to serious liver damage or even death.
Essential Oils Potentially Toxic to Cats
(This list is not all-inclusive)
-
Peppermint
-
Lemon Oil
-
Lavender Oil
-
Melaleuca Oil
-
Tea Tree Oil
-
Cinnamon Bark Oil
-
Wintergreen Oil
-
Thyme Oil
-
Birch Oil
-
Other oils containing phenol


