The rapid growth of the "all natural" movement in food and healthy living has brought around the monumental popularity of essential oils to the everyday household. Unfortunately, even with the toxicity labels explaining how bad they can be TO HUMANS if used incorrectly, it is doubly dangerous to our household pets. So we at SchnauzerLife.com have developed a guide for the use of essential oils around the home; which ones are LETHAL to animals, and which can be used in a healthy way.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC.ORG), "It’s easy to confuse natural with safe. However, the reality is a little different. Essential oils are potent substances that can pose serious risks for dogs. If you’ve ever used essential oils yourself, then you know how much of a difference a few drops can make.Oils applied topically can irritate you dog’s skin. This is counterproductive for treating skin conditions and can add to your dog’s discomfort. Therefore, it’s best to avoid using essential oils topically or directly on your dog. The chemicals in essential oils are rapidly absorbed into the system, whether received orally or through the skin, and metabolized by the liver. Therefore, using essential oils could be especially problematic for puppies and young dogs, dogs with liver disease, and elderly dogs.If your pup can reach the essential oil you put on him and licks it off, the oil can result in gastrointestinal upset. Never leave essential oils or bottles in a place where your dog can get them. If your dog does ingest essential oils, contact your veterinarian and poison control immediately."
Pets access these oils and fragrances through a number of ways. With noses 400x more powerful than a human, dog's access to so many scents that their risk is very high. Products like these should be removed:
- GLADE, RENUZUT, plug-in scent diffusers
- Highly scented cleaning chemicals including Pine-Oil products.
- Inscense sticks and popourri bowls which have oil infused leaves or flowers that are floated in water to release scents. Double trouble if your dog eats any of the mixture, because that can be fatal.
- Cinnamon brooms and cinnamon scented decor.
Oils that are harmful to cats include, but are not limited to:
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Oils that are harmful to dogs include, but are not limited to:
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What are the signs of essential oil or liquid potpourri poisoning?
Symptoms may include:
- Fragrance or scent on hair coat, skin, or breath or in vomit
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty walking or uncoordinated gait
- Drooling
- Lethargy or weakness
- Muscle tremors
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin
- Vomiting
What Should I Do if My Pet Shows These Symptoms?
Just like poisoning in humans, the key to reacting to poisoning in your pet is to act FAST. Don’t delay contacting a professional. Call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680). Seek medical treatment immediately. If you can’t reach your vet or their office is closed, bring your cat or dog to an animal emergency medical center. The sooner, the better. Acting fast will improve your pet’s prognosis! And remember, the toxicity is not only for essential oils applied TOPICALLY, but also DIFFUSED through the air too.
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
What should I do if I suspect that my dog has been exposed to essential oils or liquid potpourri?
Rapid diagnosis and treatment are imperative. If you believe that your dog has ingested or come in contact with essential oils or liquid potpourri, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680) immediately.
The sooner you seek treatment, the better the prognosis and outcome for your dog.
In addition:
- Do not induce vomiting or give activated charcoal to your dog. This may worsen your dog’s condition.
- Put the product packaging in a sealed plastic bag, and take it with you to the veterinary clinic.
- If any product is on the skin or fur, quickly wash it off using hand dishwashing detergent.
How are essential oil or liquid potpourri poisonings treated, and what is the prognosis?
Fast and aggressive treatment by your veterinarian is essential to prevent any toxic effects from developing. If clinical signs have developed, treatment will be based on those symptoms. Fast and aggressive treatment is essential to prevent any toxic effects.
Your veterinarian will perform blood work to determine if the liver and kidneys have been affected. Intravenous (IV) fluids may be used for hydration, and sometimes a soft diet or feeding tube may be necessary if there are chemical burns in the mouth or esophagus. Other treatments may include anti-vomiting medication, medications to protect the stomach, pain medication, antibiotics, and medication to protect the liver.
Some types of oils are more toxic than others, so recovery may depend on the specific oils ingested. There is no antidote for this poisoning; however, with early intervention and supportive treatment, most dogs can survive.
How can I prevent my dog from being exposed to essential oils and liquid potpourri?
Keep essential oils and liquid potpourri products out of reach of dogs at all times. Curious animals may want to investigate the sweet-smelling liquids, so never leave opened essential oils or simmering potpourri unattended. In addition, consult a veterinarian before using any essential oils or other herbal products on your pet. Never apply a concentrated essential oil on your pet!
*Pet Poison Helpline, is an animal poison control service available 24 hours, 7 days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet – including birds! Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com. Pet Poison Helpline is not directly affiliated with LifeLearn.
