Using Natural Fragrances and Essentials Oils on your PetUpdated 4 months ago
The use of essential oils has become increasingly widespread over the last few years. Though there is research suggesting there are benefits to using essential oils in our lives, it's not necessarily the same for our pets. 
For instance, our animals have a better sense of smell than we humans do. A dog's olfactory sense (sense of smell) is a 10,000x to 100,000x more keen than our own. The concentrated amounts considered safe for humans is not the same as it would be for our cats and dogs. Its best to do thorough research to ensure you are using the correct amount, as well as a safe essential oil.
There are only a few essential oils that are considered a possible safe option to use on our pets, and only used in small spare amounts via a carrier (whether it be an oil or product). These oils should never be applied directly in concentrated amounts to a pet's skin or via orally. They should also not be used on the very young, pregnant or lactating, or are immunocompromised (unless directed by your veterinarian). You should also check with your vet before any use to ensure that the essential oil is safe and does not contradict or clash with any medication your pet is currently taking.
Cedarwood
Clary Sage (dog-safe, not cat-safe)
Pets should also be kept away from areas where a diffuser is in active use; inhaling these essential oils can cause possible issues with the lungs as well as their noses and ability to smell.
The following essential oils are considered toxic and should be avoided. This is not by any means an exhaustive list, but a good start to understanding the use of essential oils with pets.
Poisonous to cats:
BergamotBitter almond
Calamus essential oil
Cinnamon
Clary Sage
Clove
Eucalyptus
European Pennyroyal
Geranium
Horseradish
Japanese yew
Lavender
Lemon oil/Citronella
Lemongrass
Lime oils
Mustard
Orange oils
Oregano
Palmarosa
Pennyroyal; American
Pine, spruce, juniper oils
Rose
Rosemary
Sandalwood
Sassafras
Tea tree
Thyme
Wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint, mint
Poisonous to Dogs:
Pennyroyal oil (European and American)
Pine, spruce, juniper oils
Tea tree oil
Cinnamon oil
Citrus oils
Wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint,Mint
Sweet Birch oil
Ylang Ylang
If a pet is exposed to an unsafe essential oil whether it be over a short or long period of time, there are symptoms you should watch for. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning include:
- Drooling
- Difficulty Breathing
- Weakness
- Trouble walking — sometimes they stagger and stumble (this can indicate a problem with the central nervous system)
- Vomiting
- Liver Damage
- Skin Irritation
If any symptoms appear, stop use immediately and contact your Vet. Keep the packaging in case the vet needs it.
For information regarding Pet safety and natural fragrances, please review the attached article below.
Consult with a Veterinarian before any use; this article is for educational purposes only.
Other links to more information regarding toxicity to animals: