PET FRIENDLY ESSENTIAL OILS

Content

Are Essential Oils Safe For Pets?
Sensitive House Pets
Pet-Safe Essential Oils
Unsafe Essential Oils
Pet-Safe Carrier Oils
Dilution of Essential Oils for Pets
Uses & Tips for Application
The Most-recommended Essential Oils
Essential Oil Side Effects

ARE ESSENTIAL OILS SAFE FOR PETS?

Despite having natural plant origins, Essential Oils are not always entirely safe for use on or around pets, and each Essential Oil that is considered to be relatively “safe” should also be used with extreme care. If using Essential Oils, whether applying them topically or diffusing them throughout a room to promote sleep, immune function, relaxation, or for any other mental or physical improvement, ensure that thorough research is conducted regarding their benefits and side effects, especially when using them in pet care.

Pets, especially dogs and cats, have a heightened, more sensitive sense of smell compared to humans, thus many fragrances are potential irritants for them – similar to a person sitting next to someone whose cologne or perfume has an overpowering scent that inadvertently causes the feeling of being physically unwell – that could cause respiratory issues, skin reactions, allergies, and other consequences listed further down in this article; hence, many reports caution against using Essential Oils on pets younger than 10 weeks, while others suggest avoiding their use on all small pets, and still others suggest avoiding Essential Oils entirely for all pets, as topical products penetrate more easily through their sensitive skin as well as through their hair follicles. Furthermore, Essential Oils could potentially have harmful effects on their especially vulnerable chemosensory and nervous systems as well as on their immune, respiratory, and metabolic functions. For pet parents who would still like to use Essential Oils on pets, it is said that Hydrosols are a far superior choice in terms of safety, but these should also be avoided with particular pets, even in minute amounts.

It is of utmost importance to consult with a veterinarian before using Essential Oils on or near pets. In addition to this consultation, it is highly recommended to receive supplementary advice from a certified recognized, and reputable expert, such as an Animal Aromatherapist. In general, seek information from educated, impartial, and trustworthy sources. The combined expertise will help pet parents make well-educated decisions for the wellness of their pets as well as for the rest of the family. Essential Oils that seem not to have a harmful effect on one type of pet could have a distinctly opposite impact on the wellbeing of a different pet – so, even if your dog has a positive response to an oil, this does not mean the same oil should also be used on your cat, as cats have a greater number of stomach-related sensitivities in contrast with dogs.

It is also important to choose the safest variety of any given Essential Oil, as some varieties exhibit stronger properties that may be harmful compared to other, relatively milder varieties. This is where it would be highly beneficial to know the Latin botanical name of the markedly “safe” variety. Each Essential Oil exhibits diverse properties – even two oils from the same botanical, such as a “Leaf Oil” versus a “Bark Oil” can have vastly different effects on the pet’s body and on its senses. Not all Essential Oils will carry the same safeness as those that are widely used and believed to be safe for use on other pets or on humans, and those that are categorized as safe should still be handled with stringent safety measures.

When Essential Oils are introduced to the pet’s environment, the area in which it is used should be an open area with easy access to fresh air and from which the pet is free to leave. Essential Oils should be introduced one at a time in low doses in order to make it easy to spot the culprit in case of a potential allergic reaction. Keep a close eye on your pet when using Essential Oils on or around them, even if the Essential Oil is used on yourself, especially if you know you will be making physical contact with your pet. Any potential reactions could be experienced within the first 30 minutes of application, whether diffused or applied to the skin, or they can appear 24 hours after application. If your pet appears to be uncomfortable, anxious, or otherwise distressed or lethargic after the environment has been infused with an Essential Oil, immediately refrain from using this oil, remove the pet from this environment, take it to an area that is well-ventilated, and contact a veterinarian. Avoid topical application or diffusion of Essential Oils on or near caged pets, such as birds and rodents, as their confined spaces do not allow for an easy out if they become uncomfortable.

Always select Essential Oils that are 100% pure and, whenever possible, select ones that are Certified Organic to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals that could sometimes be used in the cultivation of the source botanical. Do not attempt to feed pets any Essential Oils or Carrier Oils.

Read on to learn more about the effects of Essential Oils on the most common house pets and to learn about their effects for various pet health problems.

THE MOST COMMON HOUSE PETS THAT MAY BE SENSITIVE TO ESSENTIAL OILS

Birds
Cats
Dogs (especially “flat-faced” breeds, which might have respiratory difficulties)
Fish
Guinea Pigs
Hamsters
Rabbits
Baby animals
Pregnant animals
Old animals
Sick animals
Feeble animals
Small breeds of animals

ESSENTIAL OILS THAT ARE COMMONLY CONSIDERED SAFE FOR PETS

The Essential Oils that are considered to be gentle or “light” and which are thus most commonly-used for pets are the oils in the following chart, due to the belief that they are more comfortably endured by vulnerable body systems:

OIL TYPE	ESSENTIAL OIL COMMON NAME	SPECIFIC VARIETY	REPUTED BENEFITS FOR PET
FLORAL	Chamomile (German or Roman)	Matricaria chamomilla/ Chamaemelum nobile	Eases upset stomach Eases mental and emotional distress Calms the body and mind during times of nervousness, panic, restlessness, excitement, or hyperactivity Supports skin health Elevates the spirit when experiencing shyness, fear, irritability, anger, and other negative feelings Encourages restful sleep Encourages tranquility and a sense of well-being
	Clary Sage	Salvia sclarea	Eases mental and emotional distress Calms the body and mind during times of nervousness, panic, restlessness, excitement, or hyperactivity Encourages tranquility and a sense of well-being Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties
	Marjoram (Sweet)	Marjorana hortensis L.	Eases mental and emotional distress Calms or decreases inflammation Reduces digestive discomfort Encourages sense of tranquility, relaxation, and confidence Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties Calms the body and mind during times of nervousness, panic, restlessness, excitement, or hyperactivity Elevates the spirit when experiencing shyness, fear, irritability, anger, and other negative feelings
RESIN	Frankincense Carterii	Boswellia carterii	Eases mental and emotional distress Elevates the spirit when experiencing shyness, fear, irritability, anger, and other negative feelings Anti-microbial/Anti-bacterial properties Encourages sense of tranquility and confidence
RESIN	Myrrh	Commiphora myrrha	Calms the skin Promotes increased alertness Eases mental and emotional distress Encourages sense of tranquility, confidence, and security Regulates emotions for greater sense of balance Elevates the spirit when experiencing shyness, fear, irritability, anger, and other negative feelings
ROOT	Valerian	Valeriana officinalis	Elevates the spirit when experiencing shyness, fear, irritability, anger, and other negative feelings Encourages restful sleep Eases mental and emotional distress Calms skin Supports wound healing Enhances digestive function Calms the body and mind during times of nervousness, panic, restlessness, excitement, or hyperactivity
ROOT	Ginger	Zingiber officinale	Reduces discomfort of joint pain Enhances digestive function Promotes easy breathing Calms inflammation Eases mental and emotional distress
WOOD	Cedarwood Virginian	Juniperus virginiana	Discourages insects from approaching, thereby minimizing the chances of receiving bites Encourages sense of tranquility, relaxation, and security Supports skin health Calms the body and mind during times of nervousness, panic, restlessness, excitement, or hyperactivity Supports immune function Elevates the spirit when experiencing shyness, fear, irritability, anger, and other negative feelings Reduces pain, cramping, and spasms Stimulates circulation

Despite the generalizations that are made about the relative safeness of many Essential Oils mentioned in this article, it is important to keep in mind that every animal’s biological makeup is unique and products will interact differently from species to species; accordingly, the physical response will depend on the specific pet. Pet owners who are uncertain or reluctant to use a “safe” oil on or near their pets, should disregard the safe lists and follow their own instincts.

ESSENTIAL OILS THAT ARE COMMONLY CONSIDERED UNSAFE FOR PETS

When used on or around pets, the following Essential Oils are often reputed to cause skin irritation, breathing difficulties, uncomfortable cooling effects, changes in alertness, weakness or fatigue, stumbling, vomiting, and paralysis, among various other potential effects. This list is not exhaustive:

Anise Essential Oil
Basil Essential Oil
Birch Essential Oil
Calendula Essential Oil
Cassia Essential Oil
Cinnamon Essential Oil
Citronella Essential Oil
Clove Essential Oil
Cypress Essential Oil
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Garlic Essential Oil
Grapefruit Essential Oil
Juniper Essential Oil
Lavender Essential Oil
Lemon Essential Oil
Lime Essential Oil
Myrtle Essential Oil
Nutmeg Essential Oil
Orange Essential Oil
Oregano Essential Oil
Peppermint Essential Oil
Pennyroyal Essential Oil
Pine Essential Oil
Rosemary Essential Oil
Spearmint Essential Oil
Spruce Essential Oil
Tansy Essential Oil
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Thuja Essential Oil
Thyme Essential Oil
Wintergreen Essential Oil
Yarrow Essential Oil
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

CARRIER OILS THAT ARE CONSIDERED SAFE FOR PETS (TOPICAL APPLICATION)

Borage Seed Oil
Coconut Oil
Jojoba Oil
Avocado Oil
Aloe Vera
Sunflower Oil
Apricot Kernel Oil
Sweet Almond Oil
Grapeseed Oil
Kukui Nut Oil

DILUTION OF ESSENTIAL OILS FOR PETS

Before topical application to a pet’s skin, Essential Oils should always be diluted. A safe ratio is 1 drop of Essential Oil for 1.5 tablespoon (approx. 445 drops) of Carrier Oil. This equates to a dilution of approximately 0.25%, which is considered to be be mild and likely agreeable for pets.

A patch test can be done by applying a dime-size amount of the diluted Essential Oil to an insensitive part of the pet’s body, which depends on the pet. Likewise, if diffusing an Essential Oil, ensure that a test-run is conducted by diffusing 1-2 drops of an oil that is vet-approved to be pet-friendly for only 10-15 minutes.

Both types of safety tests should be performed in a large, open space or a large, airy room. During both tests, watch your pet for any irritation, discomfort, or reactions, which may take up to 24 hours to occur and could potentially appear in the form of skin irritation, pawing at the face, coughing, sneezing, drooling, difficulty walking/staggering, slowed breathing, low body temperature, weakness, slow reflexes, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, liver damage, muscle tremors, aspiration pneumonia, and self-mutilation. In the absence of a reaction, it is said to be safe to proceed with normal application of the diluted Essential Oil.

When diluting, keep in mind that the pet’s size is a significant factor to take into consideration; a safe dilution for a large dog will not necessarily be safe for a smaller dog, and the same applies to other species. Furthermore, the amount of oil that is recommended to be given to animals that are feeble, old, pregnant, or unwell will not be same as the amount recommended for healthy animals of the same size.

USES & TIPS FOR PET-FRIENDLY ESSENTIAL OIL APPLICATION

Essential Oils should be handled in the same manner as other products that can pose potential dangers if mistreated. They should be stored in in an area that is cool, dark, and out of the reach of pets, and they should be used in accordance with their instructions and expiry dates.

DIFFUSER	HOW TO USE	Use a water-based vaporizer Use 1-2 drops of Essential Oil and diffuse intermittently – diffusing for 10 minutes then turning it off for 30 minutes Place the diffuser out of reach of the pet, such as on a high shelf or in the corner of a room Diffuse on the side of the room that is opposite the pet or in another room altogether
	BENEFITS	Does not require skin contact with or long-term exposure to Essential Oils Depending on oil used, can help to eliminate harmful airborne bacteria and offensive odors
	CAUTIONS	Never use adult human doses for pets Avoid using Essential Oils with strong, cooling, hot, or spicy aromas (e.g. Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Oregano, etc.) around pets Ensure that the room remains well-ventilated and that there is an easy way out for a pet that does not enjoy the smell or does not feel comfortable with the diffused oil Avoid diffusing Essential Oils inside a pet’s enclosed room and ensure that diffused oils are properly diluted Do not allow the diffuser to run for extended periods, overnight, or non-stop If using Essential Oils near a pet with or at risk of developing breathing difficulties, take extra precaution in the manner of application When introducing an Essential Oil to a pet through diffusion, begin by testing a small amount of one oil at a time for a short amount of time to check for potential reactions; be aware that this trial period also poses potential harm for pets with respiratory difficulties/ailments If Essential Oils are applied to any part of a pet’s body that can end up in its mouth (e.g. foot, hand), ensure that this body part remains covered after application Immediately turn off a diffuser and seek medical attention at the first sign of a stronger side effect, such as breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, seizures, or unconsciousness Avoid diffusing in areas where pets eat, sleep, or play
ROOM SPRAY	HOW TO USE	Spray only diluted Essential Oils Spray only around an open, well-ventilated room
	BENEFITS	Helps to create a calming environment scent before rest period (depending on oil) Helps to keep pet alert and energized after a rest period (depending on oil) Avoids prolonged exposure to oils
	CAUTIONS	Avoid spraying on pillows, other fabrics, or on toys and objects that the pet can put in the mouth and inadvertently ingest Avoid spraying in areas where pets eat, sleep, or play
TOPICAL APPLICATION	HOW TO USE	Always dilute with a Carrier Oil If creating a body mist for the pet, spritz no more than 3 light sprays If applying oils to a bird, apply them to a body part without any feathers, such as the feet, in order to prevent their feathers from becoming greasy, which in turn affects their ability to regulate body temperature (if birds cannot be handled, a small amount of the oil can be dabbed onto the pet’s perch)
	BENEFITS	May provide extended period of comfort
	CAUTIONS	Use only Essential Oils and Carrier Oils that are approved by your veterinarian for the particular pet on which you want to apply it Avoid stroking your pet near areas of fur/skin to which you’ve applied an oil Avoid applying oils to areas that can go in the pet’s mouth (e.g. hands, feet) Do not allow pets to walk across household surfaces that have been cleaned with Essential Oils, as they will clean themselves by licking and can thereby ingest the oils Neither Essential Oils nor Hydrosols are water-soluble and thus should never be added to an aquarium, as they will irritate or potentially cause the death of the fish. Furthermore, Hydrosols can potentially disturb the water’s pH level.

THE MOST-RECOMMENDED ESSENTIAL OILS FOR PET HEALTH AND WELLNESS

PROBLEM	RECOMMENDED OILS
Skin Irritation Fleas Skin Allergy Skin Infection/Hot Spots Fur/Coat Health	Chamomile (German) Cedarwood Marjoram (Sweet) Jojoba Coconut Aloe Vera Sunflower Apricot Kernel Sweet Almond Grapeseed Kukui Nut
Aggression Emotional Distress Lethargy Insecurity	Cedarwood Chamomile Marjoram (Sweet) Valerian
Joint Discomfort	Chamomile (Roman) Marjoram (Sweet) Frankincense Ginger
Nausea Vomiting	Cardamom Chamomile (Roman) Ginger Lavender Tarragon
Hyperactivity	Apricot Kernel Sweet Almond Kukui Nut Chamomile (Roman) Clary Sage Marjoram (Sweet) Valerian

Caution: NDA strongly recommends consulting with a veterinarian before considering applying any Essential Oil or Carrier Oil listed in the chart above. What is safe for one pet might not be safe for another pet; ensure that any Essential Oil or Carrier Oil used will not be unsafe for the other pets or family members.

ESSENTIAL OIL SIDE EFFECTS

As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, our Essential Oils are for external use only. It is imperative to consult a veterinarian before using these oils on or near any pets or animals. These oils should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to pets. If using Essential Oils topically on yourself, ensure that they are absorbed into your skin or washed off before you come into contact with your pet, as any oils that remain on the skin can potentially be ingested by pets through licking or through their skin/fur, etc.

For pets with the following health conditions, owners are especially recommended to be advised by a veterinarian: cancer, heart-related ailments, skin disorders, hair disorders, hormone-related ailments, or epilepsy. Owners with pets that have been prescribed medication or that are undergoing major surgery or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes are also advised to seek medical consultation before use.

Prior to using any Essential Oil on a pet’s body, a patch test is strongly recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the Essential Oil in 1 tablespoon of a Carrier Oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of the pet’s skin that is not sensitive. Essential Oils and Carrier Oils must never be used near a pet’s mouth, eyes, nose, ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Always ensure that hands are washed thoroughly after handling Essential Oils and Carrier Oils. Never use adult human doses for pets.

Prior to diffusing an Essential Oil near a pet, a smell test is strongly recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the Essential Oil in a water vaporizer and diffusing the oil for a few minutes in a large, open space on the opposite end from where the pet is. Aim to use an Essential Oil for only a maximum of 2 weeks before offering a rest period during which no oils are applied topically or diffused. This may help reduce the risk of developing a sensitivity to the oil. Never use adult human doses for pets. Ensure that diffusers are kept out of the pet’s reach.

In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the products and see a veterinarian immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.

The information in this document is obtained from current and reliable sources but makes no representation as to its comprehensiveness or accuracy. Information posted on this website may not always have undergone verification/validation by New Directions Aromatics Inc (NDA). Nothing contained herein should be considered as a recommendation by New Directions Aromatics Inc. as to the fitness for any use. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, NDA shall not be liable for any errors in these postings or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. New Directions Aromatics Inc. shall not be responsible for any damages resulting from use of or reliance upon this information.

The user of the product is solely responsible for compliance with all laws and regulations applying to the use of the product, including the intellectual property rights of third parties. Customers may use the information from NDA only with the clear understanding that all products must be used at their own discretion and only after referring to the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and all other relevant technical information specific to the product. New Directions Aromatics Inc. shall not be responsible for any damages, adverse reactions, negative effects, or consequences resulting from use of or reliance upon this information.

Desired results might not always be achieved due to variations in ingredients, temperatures, errors, omissions, or individual ability to follow instructions. As the ordinary or otherwise use(s) of this product is outside the control of NDA, no representation or warranty – expressed or implied – is made as to the effect(s) of such use(s) (including damage or injury) or the results obtained. The liability of New Directions Aromatics Inc. is limited to the value of the goods and does not include any consequential loss. Further, New Directions Aromatics Inc. is not responsible for the comments made in the customer reviews, nor when products are used in ways not suitable to their purpose (for example, fragrance oils in toothpaste; bath salts in metal containers; additives used in larger amounts than recommended).

Please note, the International Federation of Aromatherapists do not recommend that Essential Oils be taken internally, unless under the supervision of a Medical Doctor, who is also qualified in clinical Aromatherapy. In addition, Essential Oils must be properly diluted before use, in order to avoid any damages to property or adverse physical effects (including injury or bodily harm).

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