Could your aromatics be harming your pets?

With the popularity of oil diffusers - an easy way to release these oils into your home - there has been an emergence of alarm about how these oils may affect animals in the home. In their concentrated form, essential oils can be a danger for pets.

We’ve put together this guide to assist you with keeping your furry companion happy and healthy around essential oils and diffusers.

Essential oils are typically extracted from certain compounds within a plant and have a powerful fragrance or essence of that plant. For a long time they have been a popular remedy for a number of ailments including nasal congestion, anxiety and sore muscles.

People love their pets, so it is natural that people who also love their oils and are seeking alternatives to other pet-cleaning or pampering products. Unfortunately, while many essential oils are beneficial for humans, they’re often harmful to pets. This also applies to oils that you aren’t placing directly on your pet but may be using in a diffuser.

Some oils are more harmful than others; however, there are several factors that affect this such as concentration level and what the product is mixed with. Due to the variability in concentration, formulation and possible quality of essential oils, it is best to completely avoid directly applying them to your pet.

There are several common symptoms of poisoning in pets. A good rule of thumb as a pet owner is to stay alert if you see any changes of behaviour in your animal. Here are some other symptoms to watch out for:

• Difficulty breathing

• Drooling

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Difficulty walking or stumbling

• Muscle tremors

• Pawing at the mouth or face

• Redness or burns on their lips, tongue, skin or gums

• Vomiting

If you think your pet has come into contact with an essential oil the key is to act fast and seek veterinary treatment immediately. Be sure to also follow these tips:

• If the oil is on your pet’s fur or skin, wash it off immediately.

• Don’t give your pet any treatments without a vet’s approval.

• Take the oil with you to the vet so they know what they’re dealing with.

Using an oil diffuser for a short time period in a secured area - one that your dog or cat cannot access - is not likely to be an issue. However, if your pet has a history of breathing problems, it may be best to avoid using one altogether. Keep in mind, that your pets have a much better sense of smell than we do, so something that seems light to us may be overwhelming to them.

If you do decide to keep your diffuser, ensure that it is in a place where your pet cannot knock it over and potentially expose themselves to the oils. The best way to avoid exposing your pets to dangerous substances is always to err on the side of caution and pet-proof your space.

Dr. Bridget Brown, AWLQ Veterinarian