The use of essential oils with cats is undoubtedly the most controversial topic in animal aromatherapy. If you Google cats and essential oils, you’ll probably find comments that essential oils are toxic to cats. And you might read that cats cannot metabolize essential oils and that essential oils will kill your cat. 

The truth is…

Cats have a unique metabolic process that CAN breakdown essential oils, but is MUCH SLOWER than dogs, other animals or humans. The problem is that there are very few studies examining a cat’s drug metabolism. 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 chemicals that you may want to avoid around cats. The phenol family are very powerful essential oils that should be used with caution by everyone, including cats. High levels of phenols are found in these essential oils… Oregano, Clove, Cinnamon Leaf and Bark, Thyme, Holy Basil (aka Tulsi), Savory, and Wild Marjoram. 

But what about Tea Tree?

Tea tree has been greatly misused. It was once believed it was safe to use undiluted. Unfortunately, thousands of pet parents 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. And best avoided with cats. 

There is also a lack of direct research with citrus essential oils and cats. As I already mentioned, topical use should be avoided, but when following safe diffusing guidelines, and used in moderation, citrus oils 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 on 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 around. Avoiding overexposure and following the suggestions in my Pet-Friendly Guide to Diffusing Essential Oils are the keys to safe diffusing.  (You can get 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   
• 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, there’s good news. Your cat can very safely benefit from aromatherapy by using hydrosols and/or dried herbs.  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.