Essential Oils and Pet Safety: What Every Owner Should Know

Essential oils have become a mainstay in many modern households, praised for their therapeutic scents, mood-boosting properties, and natural approach to wellness. From lavender diffusers that promote sleep to citrus-based cleaning sprays that freshen up a room, their use has surged in popularity among health-conscious individuals. 

However, what many pet owners don’t realise is that these concentrated plant extracts despite their natural origin can pose significant risks to animal health. Cats, dogs, and other pets metabolise substances differently to humans, making them especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of certain oils.We believe knowledge is the first step toward protection. That’s why we’ve prepared this in-depth guide to help you understand the potential hazards, recognise the warning signs, and ensure your pets remain safe and healthy in a home where essential oils are in use.

The Hidden Dangers of Essential Oils for Pets

Many pet owners are unaware of how certain essential oils can be harmful to animals. Although they’re widely used in everything from household cleaning products to personal care routines, essential oils are highly concentrated and not always safe for our four-legged friends. Animals process substances differently than humans, and even small amounts of certain oils can cause severe reactions. What’s safe for you might be dangerous even toxic for your dog, cat, or other household pet.

How Exposure Happens

There are several ways a pet can come into contact with essential oils. The most dangerous is ingestion; your curious cat may lick a spill or your dog may chew on a product that contains oils. However, topical application is also risky, especially when concentrated oils are applied to fur or skin. Even airborne diffusion, while generally less dangerous, can cause respiratory issues or cumulative effects if used in poorly ventilated areas.

Common methods of exposure include:

• Spilled oils on floors or furniture
• Oil diffusers left within reach
• Skin applications (direct or via cuddling with humans wearing oils)
• Cleaning products with essential oil ingredients

Recognising the Signs of Toxicity 

Pets exposed to toxic essential oils may not show symptoms immediately. Knowing the signs of poisoning or adverse reactions is crucial so you can act quickly. Some of the symptoms to watch for include:

• Unusual drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Vomiting or loose stools
• Lethargy or general weakness
• Loss of coordination or staggering
• Shaking or tremors
• Disorientation or confusion
• Skin irritation or redness
• Jaundice (yellowing of the gums, eyes, or skin), a sign of liver distress

If your pet displays any of these signs, it’s essential to seek veterinary care without delay. Early intervention can make a big difference in recovery.

Essential Oils That Are Harmful to Pets

Not all essential oils are created equal, and some are more dangerous to pets than others. Below are several commonly used oils that can be particularly harmful:

• Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil is one of the most toxic oils to pets, even in small amounts. It can cause severe skin reactions, tremors, and coma.
• Eucalyptus Oil: While refreshing for humans, this oil can lead to vomiting, weakness, and even seizures in pets.
• Camphor: Commonly found in pain relief creams, this oil is highly toxic and can cause neurological symptoms such as seizures.
• Clove Oil: This can lead to liver damage and central nervous system depression in pets when ingested or applied topically.
• Wintergreen Oil: With high levels of methyl salicylate, this oil can cause gastrointestinal upset, breathing difficulties, and in extreme cases, organ failure.

Safer Practices for Pet Owners 

If you use essential oils at home, there are several steps you can take to minimise the risks to your pets. Here’s how to use them safely:

1. Limit Use Around Pets

   • If you’re diffusing essential oils, ensure the room is well-ventilated, and always give your pet the option to leave the space. Avoid diffusing oils for extended periods and never use them in enclosed areas with your pet.

2. Never Apply Oils to Your Pet

   • While some pet-specific products may contain diluted essential oils, never apply human-grade or concentrated oils to your pet’s skin or fur. This includes rubbing oils on your own skin before cuddling them.

3. Store Oils Out of Reach

   • Just like medications and cleaning agents, essential oils should be kept in secure places. Curious pets can easily knock over bottles or chew through containers.

4. Use Pet-Safe Alternatives

   • There are pet-friendly aromatherapy options and cleaning products that avoid harmful essential oils. Always check labels or speak with us about safe alternatives.

5. Introduce Oils Slowly

   • If you’re using a new oil, monitor your pet closely. Reactions can occur even with previously tolerated oils, especially if concentrations or exposure times have changed.

What to Do in an Emergency

If you suspect your pet has been exposed to a toxic essential oil:

1. Remove your pet from the source immediately.
2. Rinse any oil off their skin with warm water and mild pet-safe shampoo.
3. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a vet.
4. Contact us or call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 for immediate advice.

Don’t delay—many oils are absorbed quickly, and early treatment is key to recovery. 

Keeping Informed and Staying Vigilant

Staying educated is one of the best ways to prevent accidental poisoning. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides updates, safety alerts, and educational resources for Australian pet owners. Consider subscribing to their mailing list to stay informed about new hazards and safety trends.

Prevention is better than cure. If you ever have questions about a product or an essential oil you’re using in your home, feel free to reach out to our team for advice. We’re happy to provide guidance tailored to your pet’s needs and your household environment.

For more tips on keeping your pets safe and healthy, check out the rest of our blog or give us a call. Your pet’s health is our top priority.