As much as essential oils have gained popularity for their various benefits, it’s important to be aware that not all essential oils are safe for our feline companions. Cats possess unique physiological traits that can make them sensitive to certain compounds found in essential oils. This guide sheds light on the “Toxic Essential Oils for Cats,” focusing on the top five doTERRA oils that should be avoided around our beloved feline friends. Understanding these potential hazards can help us provide a safe and nurturing environment for our cats while enjoying the benefits of essential oils ourselves.
Essential oils bring numerous benefits to humans, but it’s crucial to exercise caution when there are cats or dogs in the household. Among the top 5 toxic essential oils for cats, some of the most cherished ones by humans fall under the doTERRA range.
There are several essential oils considered toxic for cats, and they can have adverse effects on their health. These oils can impact the cat’s liver, nervous system, and other organs, with some even potentially leading to fatal health issues.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated and aromatic extracts derived from plants, obtained through methods like steam distillation, cold pressing, or other specific techniques. These oils are renowned for retaining their intense natural fragrances and containing active chemical compounds that can offer a range of benefits when used for various purposes. Of course, most essential oils bring benefits to humans.
Used for thousands of years in traditional aromatherapy practices and natural medicine, essential oils are valued for their therapeutic properties. Each essential oil possesses its own unique characteristics, and many are known to potentially induce relaxation, improve mood, reduce stress, or even have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
When it comes to cats, many substances beneficial to humans can be extremely toxic to them. Therefore, if you have a cat at home, you must be cautious about the essential oils you use in your diffuser for aromas.
I’ve chosen to specify that we’re discussing doTERRA essential oils because these are known for their high quality and are used by millions of people worldwide.
Toxic Essential Oils for Cats (Top 5 doTERRA)
A top compiled by the Cats Protection organization ranks cinnamon, citrus, clove, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils as the top five toxic essential oils for cats. According to studies, these oils are considered the most toxic to cats.
However, this list doesn’t include an essential oil that is extremely dangerous for cats. Tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties in humans, can be highly toxic to cats. It can cause severe symptoms such as muscle weakness, tremors, breathing difficulties, and even coma.
Cinnamon
Toxicity: Highly toxic to cats.
Cinnamon essential oil has a warm and spicy aroma, often used to create festive and comforting scents.
Toxic effects on cats: It can cause skin, respiratory, and digestive irritations. It may lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory issues.
Citrus (Lemon, Orange, Grapefruit, etc.)
Toxicity: Moderately toxic to cats.
Citrus essential oils have fresh and invigorating scents, often used to energize and uplift the mood.
Toxic effects on cats: They can cause skin and digestive irritations. Additionally, they can affect the nervous system of cats, causing restlessness, tremors, and other symptoms.
Cloves (Clove)
Toxicity: Moderately toxic to cats.
Clove essential oil falls under the category of essential oils toxic to cats. It has a strong and spicy scent, often used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Toxic effects on cats: Can cause skin and oral cavity irritations. Excessive ingestion or inhalation can lead to symptoms such as difficulty in breathing and liver damage.
Eucalyptus
Toxicity: Toxic to cats.
Eucalyptus essential oil has a invigorating and comforting aroma, known for its decongestant and respiratory effects.
Toxic effects on cats: Inhaling or ingesting this essential oil can lead to severe respiratory problems, excessive salivation, breathing difficulties, and other symptoms.
Lavender – Toxic Essential Oils for Cats
Toxicity: Toxic to cats.
Lavender essential oil has a floral and relaxing scent, used for its calming and stress-reducing properties.
Toxic effects on cats: Can cause symptoms like lethargy, lack of appetite, breathing difficulties, and vomiting. In rare cases, it can lead to severe allergic reactions.
Not only these are toxic essential oils for cats. Juniper oil, used for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties in humans, can cause kidney and digestive issues, as well as skin irritations in cats.
If you notice any unusual symptoms in your cat or suspect that it has come into contact with a toxic essential oil, seek immediate advice from a veterinarian.
