In 2020, the market value of essential oils was over 18 billion dollars. That number is expected to grow dramatically in the next six years.
This may be due in part to humans not being the only ones who can enjoy essential oils.
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about essential oils for pets.
Table of Contents
A Steady Introduction
When you introduce essential oils in the house, your dog will notice quickly. That’s why it’s important to use it in moderation so dogs and other animals can get used to the new scents.
Keep an eye on how your pets react to the new scents, too. You can do this by diffusing the oil in the same room as them or wearing it on your skin.
Do they start coughing or sneezing? Are they acting out of the ordinary? That’s not a good sign.
Undoubtedly, there are perks to essential oils if your pets react positively to them. To see all the benefits and drawbacks of essential oils for pets, click here.
Essential Oils to Avoid
Let’s suppose you’ve been using essential oils around your pets for a while. They seem to be reacting well to them.
Is it time to apply them now? Hold on a minute.
Some essential oils might be toxic for dogs. Stay away from high-phenol oils like wintergreen, oregano, and clove. For cats, avoid citrus, rose, and sandalwood.
Do not diffuse these scents or wear them around your pets either.
Essential Oils for Dogs
Thankfully, there are some essential oils for dogs that are quite beneficial.
For any pet, don’t forget to dilute the oil if you’re applying it topically. Use either water or carrier oil. The bigger the dog, the more diluted it should be.
Instead of applying essential oils near the nose, mouth, or eyes, rub them on their back. Make sure it’s rubbed thoroughly into your hands before applying to the animal. It’s better to start with small applications.
Feel free to rub it on their paws too.
Essential Oils for Cats
Essential oils for cats follow similar rules as the dogs. You can apply the oils to your cat’s paws, and their oil-to-carrier-oil ratio should be 1:4. In other words, one drop of essential oil to every four drops of carrier oil.
Do not apply scents for cats every day.
Other Precautions for Essential Oils
Even if your pets acclimate well to essential oils, you can never be too careful. Check in with your vet to make sure essential oils for pets are a good choice. If your pet is under eight weeks old, wait until they’re an adult.
You also shouldn’t spray essential oils on your pet’s bed or anywhere else they like to sleep. Otherwise, they may exhibit odd behavior from breathing it in or licking up the oils.
This is why it’s important to keep your home well-ventilated if you’re using essential oils.
Try Essential Oils for Pets Today
Essential oils are one of the best ways to relax or invigorate us. In some instances, essential oils for pets are beneficial too.
As long as you take the necessary precautions, you should get the go-ahead from your vet.
Keep reading our site for more lifestyle and health advice.
