Essential Oils That Are Toxic to Pets

Last November, I was introduced to essential oils and started doing research on using essential oils
for  pets. Unfortunately, there is so little research on the subject and so much misinformation, it can get quite overwhelming. One of my favorite websites for learning how to safely use essential oils on humans is Learning About EO's. I have learned so much, but feel as if I have only scratched the tip of
the iceberg. As a result of this newly found knowledge, I have also developed a new pet peeve-- people posting natural essential oil recipes for pets on Pinterest without really taking into regard the power of these oils.... and they can be SUPER POWERFUL. There are a lot of oils out there that are NOT safe for pets and can be quite deadly. Therefore, I have compiled a list of oils that I have read can be toxic to pets. I always encourage you to do your own research as well, because I am obviously not a licensed aromatherapist nor am I a chemist or a holistic Veterinarian.

Essential Oils That Are Toxic to Cats:
  • Peppermint
  • Oregano
  • Clove
  • Sage
  • Citrus oils (example: Lemon and Wild Orange)
  •  Lavender
  • Melaleuca (tea tree oil)
  •  Cinnamon (cassia)
  • Wintergreen
  • Thyme
  •  Birch
  •  Bergamot
  •  Pine
  • Spruce
  •  Any other oils containing phenols (example: Wintergreen, Thyme and Oregano)
  • Eucalyptus
There are probably a lot more that are toxic for cats. I have read quite a bit of research in regards to using essential oils on cats and it's kind of a "no-no". I wrote about what I found in my blog post last November. 

Essential Oils That Are Toxic To Dogs and Cats: 
  • Anise
  • Basil
  • Birch
  • Bitter Almond
  • Camphor
  • Cinnamon
  • Citric Oils (examples: Lemon and Wild Orange)
  • Cloves
  • Eucalyptus
  • Garlic
  • Horseradish
  • Hyssop
  • Juniper
  • Mustard
  • Oregano
  • Pennyroyal
  • Red or White Thyme
  • Sassafras
  • Savory
  • Tansy
  • Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca)
  • Wintergreen
  • Yarrow
 One essential oil that was on the fence with the information I could find was Peppermint oil for dogs. But, the ASPCA said this: "Oils such as peppermint can cause oral, skin and gastrointestinal irritation—if swallowed in large quantities, central nervous system depression may occur as well. Due to its potential for problems, we would not recommend giving peppermint oil to your dog. If you’re looking for a supplement to support your dog's health, we advise communicating with your local veterinarian to get a recommendation for an appropriate product."

These lists should not be considered "the list". There are a lot more lists out there that are more thorough (Like this one). I focused on the more common oils as a quick "go to". Always remember to thoroughly research anything you are going to use therapeutically for yourself or your pet and ask a doctor (for you) or a Veterinarian (for your pet).

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