If you are anything like me, your pets are very much a part of your family. I know with my dog Jackson I am very careful what I feed him, that he gets enough exercise and even that he is not feeling lonely or stressed out when I'm gone or he's in a strange environment. That's why when the question of essential oils being safe for our pets came up I went scrambling for any information I could find on the subject.
The answers I found were twofold. Yes, most are safe but no, some are to be avoided with cats and dogs. Also, it matters how you are using them, topically, internally or aromatically, how they're diluted, and most importantly what brand oils you are using.
It is perfectly safe to use whatever oils you like in your diffuser. As long as the room is well ventilated and your pet has a way to leave if he/she feels the need.
Now let's talk about what not to use topically and internally on your pets.
For dogs avoid - Birch, Melalueca (Tea Tree Oil), and Wintergreen.
For cats avoid - Basil, Citrus oils (Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime Orange, Tangerine), Birch, Cinnamon, Clove, Dill Fennel, Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Oregano, Peppermint, Thyme, Rosemary, Spearmint, and Wintergreen.
Aside from that list I feel comfortable using carefully diluted pure therapeutic grade essentials oil from doTERRA on Jackson as needed but not daily. My favorites are Lavender for calming during storms, loud noises or unfamiliar company that might stress him out and DigestZen for occasional stomach issues or inconsistent bowel movements. Again as needed and not daily.
Now let's talk about how to apply and how to dilute.
I found a number of dilution charts on Pinterest and while I did not research their accuracy, I found most have the same ratios listed. Still I would error on the side of the less essential oil to carrier oil side of the charts until you see how your animal reacts or check with you vet.
As far as application goes, I pre-measured and diluted my oils in a roller ball and labeled them for pet use so that I would feel safe each time I used the oils on my dog. For Jackson who is around 20 pounds, I used 5 drops of doTERRA essential oil in a 10ML roller ball and topped off with fractionated coconut oil and I rub the mixture on the back of his spine being careful to avoid his eyes, ears, nose and genitals.
And lastly, brand does matter. I wouldn't use essential oils that are less than 100% therapeutic grade oils from doTERRA on myself and I wouldn't use them on my animals. I am not recommending these protocols for any other oils.
Here's a recipe I found for a natural flea collar that I have been using that has worked well without any side affects on my dog. Again, all animals (much like people) are different and may react differently, so monitor for signs of irritation.
FLEA COLLAR RECIPE
In a 5 ML glass bottle add the following doTERRA essential oils and top off with fractionated coconut oil
5 drops Lemon
5 drops Lavender
5 drops Cedarwood
Place drops all along a cloth collar and let soak in for 30 minutes before placing on your pet. Repeat monthly.
I hope you found this information helpful. I found good information here and here.
If you are interested in getting started with doTERRA essential oils, here is a link to the oils I used to make these pet friendly recipes.
Have you used essential oils on your pets? Which are your favorites? Let me know in the comments.
XO, Patty
Post a Comment