Pet Friendly Essential Oils

Pets, especially our furry dog and cat friends, are far more sensitive to smells than us mere humans, so when it comes to fragrances and essential oils that we are spritzing and diffusing around the house we need to keep this in mind. Despite natural, all organic, plant origin jargon, some essential oils still are not entirely safe for our pets and may cause irritation, so should be used with extreme care. In saying that, we don’t need to completely avoid essential oils when our pets are around. 

Tip #1: Consider the environment

No matter what essential oils you are introducing into your pets environment, make sure they are introduced initially in low doses, and that the area is an open space, with lots of access to fresh air - like open windows or doors. This means if the smell is bothering your pet they are free to leave/escape it. Also, any reactions normally occur within the first 30 minutes, so pay particularly close attention during this time. 

Tip #2: What essential oils are okay?

Oil Type: Floral

• Chamomile (German or Roman)

• Clary Sage

• Majoram (Sweet)

Oil Type: Resin

• Frankincense Carterii

• Myrrh 

Oil Type: Root

• Valerian

• Ginger

Oil Type: Wood

• Cedarwood Virginian

This list is not all inclusive, but the safe options are certainly not exhaustive so if you are choosing other essential oils do your homework before exposing your creatures!

Tip #3: What to avoid?

Peppermint oil, Citrus oils (including Lemon oil), Tea Tree oil, Pine oil, Eucalyptus oil, Cinnamon oil, and Ylang Ylang oil are known to contain phenols and are toxic to dogs and cats. Avoid using these if you have pets in the house. Particularly if it is a small, closed space, without access to fresh air. Also remember, higher essential oil concentrations place your pets at greater risk for reaction, so use with caution. Finally, in the case that your pet ingests any essential oils, take them immediately to the veterinarian. 

What’s Charlie’s favourite?

Our ECO. Modern Essentials - Cedarwood Juniperus Virginiana. Only $16 for a 10ml bottle. Head in to find out your pet’s favourite with the help of our friendly staff or give us a call on 7016 4369.

TA Team