Despite most people’s preference for a fragrance-free environment, there seems to be a candle, plug-in, or reed diffuser everywhere we go. Perhaps one of the most popular options these days are essential oil misters aimed at producing a specific effect. Sure, essential oils offer therapeutic benefits, but they can also threaten pet safety at home.
The Nose Knows
Like incense, essential oil diffusers fill the air with a fragrance. The difference is that a diffuser also sends a mist with the oil, adding to the overall humidity or moistness in any given space.
However, because animals have a faster metabolism than humans, these otherwise healing oils can actually prove dangerous to their delicate systems. In other words, they can be toxic to our furry and feathered friend
Lovely or P.U.?
When it comes to liking or disliking a certain scent, it’s purely subjective. While essential oils are marketed as 100% natural or safe, their inherent concentrations jeopardize pet safety at home and may cause damage to the lungs and air sacs.
Ingesting or inhaling essential oils can cause the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Unsteadiness
- Low body temperature
- Depression
- Muscle weakness
Liver damage can result from environmental exposure to certain essential oils. Please do not hesitate to seek emergency veterinary care.
The Worst Offenders
Some oils are more damaging than others. For example, tea tree, oregano, wintergreen, citrus, pine, pennyroyal, clove, eucalyptus, and rosemary oils should be avoided.
Upholding Pet Safety at Home
Contrary to some reports that essential oils are helpful for certain conditions, pets should never be given essential oils or have them applied to their skin or coat.
If you have a diffuser in your home, please be sure your pet has access to another fragrance-free space to which they can retreat. If your pet is an active self-groomer, be sure they aren’t getting any oils on their fur. Keep all essential oils out of your pet’s reach.
If your pet has a health condition related to their lungs or airway, it’s best not to expose them to essential oil diffusers.
If you have any questions or concerns related to pet safety at home, please contact us. We’re always here for you!
