As the use of essential oils increases in our homes, you might ask, is cedarwood oil safe for cats?
The answer to this question is yes, cedarwood oil is considered safe for cats, as it’s often naturally low enough in phenols for it to be safe. An added benefit is that its components are known to encourage a sense of tranquility, relaxation, and security in your pet. Cedarwood oil also discourages insects and has even been proven lethal to adult fleas.
It’s important to note that the research into how essential oils affect our pets is still in its infancy. It is always recommended to talk with your veterinarian when introducing something new to your cat.
VINEVIDA Cedarwood Essential Oil
Understanding the Issues Surrounding Cats and Essential Oils
Pets, especially dogs and cats, have a heightened, more sensitive sense of smell than humans; thus, many fragrances are potential irritants. Where humans have around 5 million odor sensors, a cat’s odor sensors pass 200 million. Their sense of smell is said to be 9-16 times better than ours.
Even though cedarwood oil is considered safe for cats, it’s a good idea to follow these steps when introducing it to your pet. The area in which it is used should be an open area with easy access to fresh air. The area should also allow your pet to come and go freely. Essential Oils should be introduced one at a time in low doses. This will allow you to spot any possible reactions. You should also be mindful when making physical contact with your pet if you have used essential oils.
Cats do not possess the same enzyme we use in our livers to break down certain constituents, such as those found in essential oils. For this reason, the concentration of chemicals remains high in their systems, leading to such issues as breathing conditions, weakness, skin irritation, and more. For this same reason, even topical applications of certain oils will create problems, despite dilution, as the oil is still present in the dilution.
Remember, every cat is different, and just like humans, they may react more intensely to some scents than others. It’s also important to remember that every animal’s biological makeup is unique. Products will interact differently from species to species; accordingly, the physical response will depend on the specific pet.
Is Cedarwood Oil Safe For Cats? - Plus Other Safe Oils
There are several options to choose from that will provide you with peace of mind. First, let’s discuss some of the essential oils you should avoid. The main essential oils to avoid for cats are eucalyptus, tea tree, cinnamon, any of the citrus oils, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang-ylang.
Cats tend to enjoy scents like rose, lavender, and geranium, as well as cedarwood. It is always essential to dilute any essential oil you use, even if using it in a diffuser. Since their sense of smell is so much stronger than ours, you should ensure there is good airflow in whatever room you use the oils in and leave a door open so they can leave the room if needed.
Research suggests that besides encouraging relaxation and repelling insects, cedarwood oil’s components can also improve skin health and support circulation. After you have given your cat a flea bath, try adding a drop of cedarwood blended with a carrier oil into their collar in order to prevent future flea infestations.
Symptoms Of Poisoning
Any time you introduce something new in the home, it makes sense to monitor reactions. Essential oil toxicity can happen fast or build up over time. Symptoms can range from a runny nose or itchy eyes to skin irritations and weight loss.
Watch out for them drinking more water than usual. Be mindful of coughing as well. It may seem like they’re coughing up a hairball, but instead, they could be suffering from a respiratory infection. If you notice anything odd happening with your pet, first get them out into the fresh air. If removing them from the scent doesn’t help, seek urgent veterinary assistance. Usually, being moved away from the scent will help. If not, then seek urgent veterinary assistance. If your pet is in distress, they should be seen immediately. It may be a good idea to take whatever essential oil they’re reacting to with you.
Is Cedarwood Oil Safe For Cats - Conclusion
Is cedarwood oil safe for cats? Yes, but the evidence is lacking. Research suggests the components in cedarwood oil can kill adult fleas, and discourage other insects from bothering your pet. It is important to make sure your pet is not able to ingest the oil or to come in direct contact with the oil. You should also be mindful if you have been in contact with cedarwood oil, and then have contact with your cat.
