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When Essential Oils and Pets Don’t Mix

© Marie A. Miczak

When Essential Oils and Pets Don't Mix

When many think of pet proofing their home, they immediately start looking over house plants to see if they are poisonous or household chemicals which can be toxic. Many may not think their essential oils and products made with them an be just as toxic to household pets. One way pets have been adversely effected is when they are confined to a small area wit no air flow and an Aromatherapy candle or incense present. This has caused cases of cats at least to suffer from toxic buildup in their system. Veterinarian attention was then needed.

Consumption of essential oils in general has been found to poison some household pets, especially small ones. The type of essential oil didn't seem to matter. Many will note that many natural pet products such as flea collars contain essential oils like peppermint. This seems not to have any adverse effects on the pet, if the packages guidelines are followed. What seems to pose the real risk is when essential oils are, perhaps spilled, and the animal consumes a good amount of it. Other easy ways for pets to be able to consume essential oils is when they are left in an Aromalamp or aromatic (potpourri) votive lamp device. This acts as a bowl for them to lap it up, especially cats and birds. Therefore it would be a very good idea to keep these items out of rooms where pets frolic. Many allergists and other types of physicians make the suggestion that pets be kept out of the bed room. If heeding this, one could easily enjoy their essential oils there.

Another way animals have been killed is when they consume incense that has high concentrations of essential oils. Many forms of incense actually look like a type of dog or cat food (especially to a dog or cat), so be sure not to leave any such items for them to get a hold of. It may be too late before you are able to notice your pet consumed such items. Essential oils should be kept tightly capped an preferably in one, assessable (to you) place which is out of direct sun and heat . Discard all unused essential oil after you have finished with a diffuser device, craft, etc. Keep incense in a special incense holder and away from chewing friends. Your efforts may help prevent a horrible accident few likely think about.

-MAM