Essential oils are natural compounds extracted from plants. They have been used for centuries in aromatherapy, a type of complementary medicine that uses smell to improve health and well-being. While essential oils can be beneficial for humans, some of them can be harmful to pets.

What Essential Oils Are Harmful to Pets?

Essential Oils That Are Toxic to Dogs

The following essential oils are toxic to dogs and should never be used around them:

1. Tea tree oil

2. Eucalyptus oil

3. Pennyroyal oil

4. Peppermint oil

5. Wintergreen oil

6. Ylang-ylang oil

7. Clove oil

8. Cinnamon oil

9. Oregano oil

10. Thyme oil

Essential Oils That Are Toxic to Cats

The following essential oils are toxic to cats and should never be used around them:

1. Tea tree oil

2. Eucalyptus oil

3. Pennyroyal oil

4. Peppermint oil

5. Wintergreen oil

6. Ylang-ylang oil

7. Clove oil

8. Cinnamon oil

9. Citrus oils (lemon, orange, grapefruit, etc.)

10. Pine oil

Symptoms of Essential Oil Poisoning in Pets

The symptoms of essential oil poisoning in pets can vary depending on the oil that was ingested and the amount that was consumed. However, some common symptoms include:

1. Vomiting

2. Diarrhea

3. Drooling

4. Tremors

5. Seizures

6. Respiratory distress

7. Liver failure

8. Kidney failure

Treatment for Essential Oil Poisoning in Pets

If you think your pet has ingested an essential oil, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. The treatment for essential oil poisoning will depend on the oil that was ingested and the severity of the poisoning. However, some common treatments include:

1. Activated charcoal

2. Fluids

3. Anticonvulsants

4. Liver protectants

5. Kidney protectants

How to Prevent Essential Oil Poisoning in Pets

The best way to prevent essential oil poisoning in pets is to keep all essential oils out of their reach. This means storing essential oils in a safe place, such as a locked cabinet or on a high shelf. You should also avoid using essential oils in areas where your pet can access them, such as the living room or bedroom. If you are going to use essential oils around your pet, be sure to dilute them with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil.