Essential oils are commonly used in a multitude of applications. Whether they are diffused into the air, used topically, or ingested, essential oils have become a useful part of integrated health care. They can offer health and healing benefits to people seeking different forms of relief.
With their rise in popularity, essential oils have become a big talking point among pet owners as they look for new ways to help improve their pets’ quality of life. As a result, many pets have unfortunately become ill or have even died due to exposure to certain toxic essential oils.
The global essential oils market is valued at over $6 billion US and growing at a rate of about ten percent annually. As this competitive marketplace continues to grow in popularity, the risk of misinformation grows with it. How can you ensure the oils you purchase are made from reputable, transparent manufacturers? Many essential oils contain adulterates and contaminants that may be harmful to both people and pets alike.
Essential oils are extracted from a wide array of plants. Most manufacturers extract essential oils through steam distillation. Fresh plants are suspended over boiling water and steam until the oils can be separated from the plant. The oil is then collected in a concentrated form. Factors like water quality, sunlight, temperature, and even altitude can affect the quality of an essential oil.
There is also very little credible research on the subject of pets and essential oils. Many essential oil experts suspect certain negative reactions to essential oils may be a result of the contaminants, and not the plant oil itself.
What benefits, if any, do essential oils offer for our pets? Which ones are safe? Could the same oils many of us use regularly be actually harming our furry friends?
Animals react differently to essential oils, so knowing which ones are safe to use around them is critical. Essential oils shouldn’t be applied orally or topically without expressed veterinary approval. Even safe oils can irritate a pet’s lungs, so make sure to keep exposure low, and provide easy access to fresh air.
Essential Oils to Avoid with Pets
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Cinnamon
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Tea Tree
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Pine
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Birch
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Wintergreen
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Citrus
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Ylang Ylang
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Pennyroyal
Safer Essential Oils for Pets
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Chamomile
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Thyme
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Lavender
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Spearmint
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Cardamom
While the above list notes oils that are safest for pets, your individual pet may still react to them poorly. Even if you’re using a non-toxic essential oil around your pet, a good rule to follow is this: less concentrated is better.
Essential oils and diffusers can be easily knocked off shelves and countertops, so make sure to keep them in a safe, inaccessible location.
If your pet has been exposed to essential oils and is at risk, call your veterinarian immediately. There are many symptoms of essential oil poisoning: difficulty breathing, excessive panting, vomiting, tremors, redness of gums, loss of balance, and profuse drooling.
Before exposing your individual pet to any essential oils, do your research. Speak to your veterinarian or trusted pet health professional, and always use caution.
Brandon Forder – also known as The Pet Expert – is vice-president of Canadian Pet Connection, a family-owned and -operated business located in Meaford. He has over twenty-five years of experience specializing in pet nutrition, behaviour, and lifestyle. Canadian Pet Connection is an industry leader committed to providing their clients with the highest levels of personal, attentive service. Learn more at www.CanadianPetConnection.ca
