Essential Oils and Cats | Are Essential Oils Safe For Cats?

For many of us, using essential oils is part of a weekly or even daily routine. With a plethora of fragrances to choose from, it’s easy to get caught up in the world of aromatherapy. Unfortunately, essential oils do pose a threat to our four-legged friends. The potential danger that comes with introducing essential oils and cats is nothing to “sniff” at. So, are there any essential oils safe for cats?

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are natural, highly concentrated oils extracted from the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, or fruits of certain plants. These oils retain the characteristic fragrance of the plant. In aromatherapy, it’s believed that molecules of the oil that are inhaled or absorbed through the skin can ease stress, boost mood, or aid in a better night’s sleep, among other benefits.

Methods of using essential oils include, but are not limited to, topical application (applying to the skin like perfume); liquid potpourri; candles; room sprays; heat diffusers like plug-in/electric oil diffusers, candle burners, or table top warmers; reed diffusers; motorized diffusers; and nebulizing and ultrasonic diffusers.

tabby cat sleeping next to essential oil diffuser

Essential oils and cats: A toxic combination?

Many essential oils contain phenols, an organic compound that is unsafe for cats. In fact, some disinfectants and cleaners use phenolic compounds and they are highly toxic to cats. Cats do not have a sufficient amount of the essential enzyme UPD-glucuronosyl transferase in their liver to effectively metabolize and eliminate certain toxins, such as phenols. Therefore, there is an inherent risk of toxicity with too much exposure.

Essential oils that are airborne (through diffusers, room sprays, etc.) may be inhaled by cats or ingested when cats groom themselves (by licking the particles off of their fur). This can contribute to respiratory irritation or symptoms of poisoning.

Another serious threat is a cat directly ingesting essential oils (through liquid potpourri, a spilled bottle, etc.). Not only can this potentially cause corrosive burns on a cat’s mouth and esophagus, but it can contribute to severe symptoms like liver failure or even death.

Avoid these essential oils if you have a cat

The following essential oils contain phenols and are known to be toxic to cats. (This is not a comprehensive list.)

Tea tree (melaleuca) oil—this is considered to be one of the most dangerous essential oils for cats
Wintergreen oil
Birch oil
Citrus, lemon, lime, and grapefruit oils
Pine oil
Ylang Ylang oil
Peppermint oil
Cinnamon oil
Pennyroyal oil
Clove oil
Eucalyptus oil
Thyme oil
Oregano oil
Lavender oil
Bay oil
Bergamot oil
Copaiba oil
Fir oil
Geranium oil
Sage oil
Spruce oil
Basil oil
Dill oil
Fennel oil
Rosemary oil
Spearmint oil

Symptoms of essential oil poisoning in cats

Depending on the type of oil and the method of exposure, a poisoned cat may exhibit the following symptoms:

Watery eyes or runny nose
Drooling
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Depression
Skin redness or rashes or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin
Respiratory distress (labored breathing, fast breathing, panting, coughing, or wheezing)
Tremors
Difficulty walking, wobbliness (ataxia)
Lethargy
Low heart rate
Low body temperature
Pawing at the mouth

What to do if you think your cat was poisoned

Cats exhibiting severe symptoms of any kind should be taken immediately to an emergency vet clinic or animal hospital. If your cat is experiencing slight respiratory distress or a runny nose/watery eyes, move him into fresh air right away. Call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435), or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) for further guidance.

Are any essential oils safe for cats?

There are some veterinary professionals who have used essential oils with success—the huge caveat is that they’re diluted, diffused, and used in moderation. At present, there is no widely accepted recommendation, dilution standard, or specification of certain oils to be deemed safe to use in cats. Veterinary medicine still has a long way to go in regards to conducting research proving the efficacy and safety of essential oils in felines. Avoid the specific oils listed above; for all others, never use them on your cat unless under the direct instruction of a veterinarian.

How to safely use essential oils in a household with cats

Keep these important do’s and don’ts in mind when you’re around essential oils and cats:

DON’T use essential oils around kittens, elderly cats, or cats that have liver or respiratory problems.
DO always check the label—some brands of oils may contain phenols while others don’t.
DO only use therapeutic-grade essential oils.
DON’T apply oils directly on your cat (even those considered safe) without first talking to your veterinarian.
DO wash your hands before petting your cat if you have recently handled essential oils.
DO keep all essential oils in a cat-proof cabinet so your cat doesn’t have access to them.
DON’T allow your cat to lick your skin if you have applied any products that contain essential oils.
DO supervise when your cat is around essential oil diffusers or pots that can be knocked over.
DON’T wear aromatherapy jewelry when you are around your cat.

Finding essential oils safe for cats is a complicated undertaking. Just remember—it is always better to err on the side of caution. Learn more about the top poisons and toxicities that land cats in the emergency vet. When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian!

Read our cleaning tips guide for your cats.

FAQ

My cat sniffed peppermint oil. What should I do?

Watch your cat for symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, or respiratory distress (labored breathing, fast breathing, panting, coughing, or wheezing). If the essential oil was properly diluted, a short duration of sniffing might not result in any harm.

Can I use tea tree oil on myself around my cat?

It is best avoided. At the very least, exercise great caution when using tea tree and other essential oils on yourself if you have pets. They may inadvertently lick the oil off your skin or on their own fur where you have touched them.