We use them to scent our home but just because an oil is suitable for humans, don’t assume it’s safe for your feline friends, too. Essential oils that are harmful to cats include:
- Cinnamon
- Citrus
- Clove
- Eucalyptus
- Lavender
- Pennyroyal
- Peppermint
- Pine
- Sweet Birch
- Tea Tree
- Wintergreen
- Ylang Ylang
Not only are these harmful if applied to cats’ fur or if they were to be accidentally licked — they are also a danger in other forms including oil burners. Essential oils can cause organ damage in cats, as well as liver failure, seizures and even death.
If you have a reed diffuser or air freshener, be careful where you place them to avoid accidental spillage.
If you think your cat may have come into contact with an essential oil, look for adverse symptoms such as dribbling, shaking, lethargy, difficulty breathing, vomiting, collapse or seizures. Contact your vet immediately and take the suspected oil with you to the appointment.