Essential Oil Toxicity in Cats
Overview
Symptoms
Risk
Diagnosis
Vet treatment
Home treatment
Prevention
Our vet recommendations for safe calming products
When to worry
Essential Oil Toxicity in Cats
Essential oil toxicity in cats is increasing in UK homes, as aromatherapy, scented products and “natural” remedies become increasingly popular. But natural doesn’t always mean safe, and cats are particularly vulnerable to serious, sometimes life-threatening poisoning from some of the most popular oils in daily use.
Cats are particularly vulnerable to essential oil toxicity for three main reasons. Firstly, and most importantly, your cat's body cannot break down and safely remove the chemicals in essential oils. Secondly, cats are innately curious and particularly likely to sniff, spill and lick something ‘interesting’. Thirdly, their fastidious grooming habits mean any oil spill on their coats (or your hands!) is likely to be accidentally ingested. The build-up of toxins in their body can harm your cat’s liver, nervous system, airways, skin or gastrointestinal tract. Talk to a vet without delay if you think your cat may be at risk. With early recognition and prompt veterinary care, most cats will recover in 2-3 days.
What is essential oil toxicity in cats? >
What is essential oil toxicity in cats? [OverviewSymptoms of essential oil toxicity in cats Are some cats more at risk of essential oil toxicity? How do vets diagnose essential oil toxicity? How do vets treat cats with essential oil toxicity? How to support a cat with essential oil toxicity at home Tips on how to prevent essential oil toxicity in cats Our vet recommendations for safe calming products
Vet's Favourite
Are some cats more at risk of essential oil toxicity? How do vets diagnose essential oil toxicity? How do vets treat cats with essential oil toxicity? How to support a cat with essential oil toxicity at home Tips on how to prevent essential oil toxicity in cats Our vet recommendations for safe calming products
Vet's Favourite
How do vets treat cats with essential oil toxicity? How to support a cat with essential oil toxicity at home Tips on how to prevent essential oil toxicity in cats Our vet recommendations for safe calming products
Vet's Favourite
Tips on how to prevent essential oil toxicity in cats Our vet recommendations for safe calming products
Vet's Favourite
When to worry
Seek urgent help from a vet if your cat:
Is having seizures, collapsed, and unresponsive
Is vomiting, gagging or drooling persistently
Seems weak, wobbly or disorientated
Has breathing difficulties: struggling to breathe or open-mouth breathing
Coughing up or vomiting blood
Joii can help with:
Safe alternative products for bathing and behaviour support in cats
Caring for cats in recovery
Managing mild symptoms at
