Essential Oils, Diffusers and Pets: What to Know
Essential oils smell lovely to us, but pets have far more sensitive noses and bodies that handle these oils differently. Here is how to keep cats, dogs and birds safe.
Diffusers, scented sprays and oil burners have become common in homes. Many people do not realize that the same concentrated oils that smell pleasant to us can make pets ill.
This guide explains which oils are known to be a problem, why cats and birds need extra care, how to use a diffuser more safely if you choose to, and the signs that mean you should call your veterinarian.
Why concentrated oils are risky for pets
The ASPCA states plainly that in their concentrated, 100% form, essential oils can be a danger to pets. Dogs and cats can be exposed by licking oil, walking through a spill, getting it on their coat, or having it put on them by an owner.
Pets also have a much stronger sense of smell than we do, so a scent that seems light to you may be overwhelming to them. Oklahoma State University's veterinary college notes that cats can be particularly sensitive to essential oils.
Birds are a special case. Their airways are very sensitive, and both the ASPCA and Oklahoma State advise avoiding diffusers and open containers of oil in homes with birds. The ASPCA says similar concerns apply to small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters.
Oils to be careful with
Tea tree oil (melaleuca) is one of the best-known problems. The ASPCA warns that in concentrated form it can cause issues with only seven or eight drops. Never use it on a pet.
Plants that are the source of popular oils are also listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Eucalyptus is toxic to dogs, cats and horses, with signs such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression and weakness. Lavender is toxic to dogs, cats and horses and can cause nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Peppermint, citrus and many other oils are also commonly flagged by veterinarians as risky, particularly for cats. How harmful an oil is depends on the type, concentration and amount, so the safest rule is to treat every concentrated oil as a possible risk.
What the evidence says
Most of what is known comes from poison control cases and veterinary experience rather than controlled studies, so there is no list of oils proven safe for pets. The ASPCA says that using a diffuser for a short time in a secured area that your pet cannot reach is not likely to be an issue, but pets with breathing problems are better off without one.
The clearest risks are direct contact and swallowing: oil on the skin or fur, licked off during grooming, or a knocked-over diffuser or bottle. These are also the easiest to prevent.
Step by step: using a diffuser more safely
Step 1: If you have birds, a pet with breathing problems, or a cat that cannot easily leave the room, it is safest not to diffuse oils at all.
Step 2: Use the diffuser only for short periods, ideally in a room your pet cannot get into. If your pet does share the space, keep a door open so it can always move away from the smell to another room.
Step 3: Place the diffuser high and stable, where it cannot be knocked over, with the cord out of reach.
Step 4: Never diffuse in the room where your pet eats, because the vapor can settle on their food and water.
Step 5: Store bottles closed and out of reach, wipe up spills straight away, and never put oils on your pet's skin, fur, bedding or toys.
Questions people ask
Is it safe to run a diffuser if I have a cat?
Cats can be particularly sensitive. If you use one at all, keep it to short periods in a room the cat cannot enter, and always make sure the cat can move away from the scent. Skip it entirely if your cat has asthma or other breathing problems.
Are any essential oils safe for dogs?
There is no reliable list of oils proven safe for pets. Harm depends on the oil, how concentrated it is and how much your dog is exposed to. Avoid direct contact completely and ask your vet before using any oil around your dog.
My dog walked through a spilled oil. What should I do?
Stop your dog licking its paws, wipe off what you can with a cloth, and call your veterinarian or an animal poison control service straight away for advice.
Sources
- The Essentials of Essential Oils Around Pets — ASPCA
- Eucalyptus — ASPCA
- Lavender — ASPCA
- Essential oils and pets — Oklahoma State University
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medicines and health conditions. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before trying a herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, giving it to a child, or taking any medication.
