The Truth About Cats and Essential Oils

The use of essential oils with cats is undoubtedly the most controversial topic in animal aromatherapy. When you Google cats and essential oils, you'll probably find comments that essential oils are toxic to cats. You might even read that essential oils will kill your cat. 

What's the truth about cats and essential oils? 

Cats have a unique metabolic process, one that differs from from other species. It effects how their body metabolizes certain chemical compounds. Without specific phase 2 liver enzymes, their metabolism is MUCH SLOWER than dogs, other animals, and humans.

Since cat's are carnivores, there are very few studies examining how a cat metabolizes plant constituents. It’s uncertain how slowly a cat is able to metabolize specific chemicals, including those contained in essential oils. 

With this in mind, cats should not consume essential oils. Let’s take that a step further. Cats groom themselves. Anything on their coat will most likely be consumed. As a result, it stands to reason that essential oils should not be applied topically on cats. 

Phenols are a powerful group of antibacterial, antimicrobial constituents. The phenol  family contain very powerful essential oils that should be used with caution by everyone, including cats. High levels of phenols are found in these commonly used essential oils… oregano, clove, cinnamon leaf, cinnamon bark, and thyme CT thymol. 

What about Tea Tree?

Unfortunately, thousands of pet parents have misused tea tree with their pets, resulting in ER visits and even death.  While there is little to no direct research proving that tea tree is toxic to our pets, it is a strong essential oil that should be used with caution around pets, especially cats. 

There is a lack of direct research about citrus essential oils and cats. As I already mentioned, topical use should be avoided, but when following safe diffusing guidelines, and used in moderation, many can be diffused safely around cats.

The biggest risk to cats is overexposure.

Overexposure is defined as using too much essential oils, for too long, and/or too often. It’s critical that cats have enough time to process ALL of the chemicals in their environment, not just essential oils.  It’s best for everyone, especially our sensitive furry friends, to use essential oils appropriately and in moderation.

At this time, there is no published research specific to diffusing essential oils with cats. There is antidotal evidence that it can be done safely based on how many households diffuse essential oils with cats in their home. 

Diffusing with a water-based, ultrasonic diffuser releases micro-droplets into the air, lessening the dangers to cats. Many cat parents, including aromatherapists, successfully diffuse essential oils with cats in the home. Avoiding overexposure and following the suggestions in my Pet-Friendly Guide to Diffusing Essential Oils are the keys to safe diffusing.  (Grab your copy at the bottom of this page).

Other Safety Tips…

• AVOID or USE CAUTION with strong essential oils like Tea Tree, Eucalyptus globulus or radiata, Spike Lavender, Peppermint, and Rosemary CT cineole  
• Use ALL essential oils in moderation around cats.  Remember, less is more
• Diffuse in a well ventilated area
• Make sure the diffuser cannot be reached by your cat
• Make sure your cat can leave the area if they want to
• Store essential oils out of your cat’s reach (or any pet)
• The best practice is to PAY ATTENTION to your fur baby whenever you’re diffusing essential oil! Know their ‘normal’ behavior so you notice if they seem “off”, or not like themselves.
• If you have any concerns, talk with your vet and consider routine bloodwork to check liver function 

If all these safety factors feel overwhelming and you prefer to take the cautionary path and avoid use of essential oils with cats, that's okay to. But there’s good news. Hydrosols and dried herbs are safe to use with cats.  To learn more about these cat safe options check out Hydrosols 101 and Herb Gardens: Safe Aromatherapy for Cats.

For complete peace of mind knowing your beloved pets are safe around essential oils, The Ultimate Safety Guide to Using Essential Oils with Pets is available for $12 here.