As a company that deeply cares about natural wellness for the whole household, including your furry family members, we often get asked: Are essential oils safe to use around pets? The short answer is: they should be used with caution. 

Animals process scents differently from humans, and a little extra care goes a long way in keeping them comfortable and safe.

In this blog, we'll explore why essential oil safety matters around pets, how cats and dogs react differently, suitable application methods for pets, which oils are considered safe to use, which ones to approach with caution, practical tips to help you use them confidently and safely around pets, and common FAQ’s. 

Why Pet Safety Matters with Essential Oils

While essential oils are a safe and natural part of many homes, it’s important to understand that dogs and cats experience them differently than humans do, especially through their sense of smell and the way their bodies metabolise certain plant compounds.

Cats

Cats are generally more sensitive to essential oils than dogs or humans. This is largely due to a biological difference, they lack a specific liver enzyme called glucuronyl transferase. This enzyme plays an important role in breaking down certain compounds, particularly phenolic compounds, which are found naturally in plants and in high concentrations in many essential oils.

Because of this, even small exposures to certain oils can build up in their system and become toxic over time. For cats, it’s especially important to avoid oils high in phenols or other strong constituents. If you’re using essential oils in your home, always make sure your cat has the ability to leave the room, and watch for signs of discomfort.

Dogs

Dogs, on the other hand, are less sensitive than cats when it comes to essential oil exposure. However, they still process scents very differently to humans.

Dogs have approximately one million odour receptors, and the part of their brain responsible for analysing smells is around forty times larger than that of a human. Cats are even more sensitive, with up to two million odour receptors, and their sense of smell is estimated to be about 14 times stronger than ours.

This means that what may seem like a subtle, relaxing scent to us could feel overpowering or even irritating, to our pets. High concentrations of oils, or continuous exposure without ventilation, may lead to unwanted effects like sneezing, hiding, drooling, or general restlessness.

How Pets Can Be Exposed to Essential Oils: Ingestion, Inhalation & Topical Use

When using essential oils in a household with pets, it’s important to understand the different ways animals can be exposed, and how to minimise risk across each.

Ingestion

Essential oils should NEVER be ingested by pets without the guidance of a trained aromatic medicine professional. Many essential oils are toxic when consumed, even in small amounts. Ingestion can lead to serious health effects in both cats and dogs. Always store oils securely out of reach of curious paws and avoid using them in pet food or water under any circumstance.

Inhalation

Diffusing essential oils is considered relatively safer than ingestion or topical use, but it should still be done with caution. Pets, especially cats and dogs have a highly sensitive sense of smell, and even mild scents to us can be overwhelming or irritating to them.

Key safety consideration: while only small percentages of essential oils are actually inhaled by pets during diffusion, microscopic oil droplets can settle on a pet’s fur or skin. If this happens, the oil may be absorbed through the skin or ingested during grooming, which can still pose a risk, particularly for cats, who lack the enzymes to metabolise many essential oil constituents safely.

Diffusion can be done safely with care, but always prioritise your pet’s comfort, use only pet-appropriate oils, and consult your vet when unsure.

Topical Use

Essential oils should not be applied directly to your pet’s skin or fur, as their skin is far more sensitive than ours, unless guided by a trained aromatic medicine professional. Even diluted oils can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or toxicity, especially if your pet licks the area during grooming.

If topical use is advised by a veterinarian or trained aromatic medicine professional, it should always involve:

• Dilution with a pet-safe carrier oil (e.g, coconut or jojoba)

• Application in very small amounts

• Close observation for any signs of irritation or behavioural changes

• Use approved pet-friendly products that have been pre-diluted for topical use, such as Zea Relief Kunzea Roll On Liniment

In most cases, topical application is not recommended unless guided by a qualified vet or trained aromatic medicine professional.

Pet-Friendly Essential Oils

Most essential oils can be safely used in the home when diffused in small amounts and with proper ventilation. The following oils are commonly considered safe to use around pets:

• Kunzea

• Coastal Tea Tree

• Lavender

• Chamomile

• Frankincense

• Nerolina 

• Copaiba

• Cedarwood

• Clary Sage

• Manuka 

• Sandalwood

• Bergamot (non-phototoxic)

• Ylang Ylang (in low concentrations)

Oils to Use With Caution

The following essential oils should be used with care and caution, especially when used in high concentrations or in enclosed spaces:

• Peppermint

• Spearmint 

• Tea Tree 

• Black Spruce   

• Patchouli 

• Fragonia 

• Cajeput 

• Cinnamon

• Clove

• Citrus oils (such as Lime, Lemon, Lemon Ironbark, Lemon Myrtle or Grapefruit)

These oils contain compounds that may be irritating or toxic to pets if inhaled, ingested or applied directly to their skin or fur. While some pets may tolerate low levels of these oils, we recommend being cautious, particularly with cats.

Oils That Should NOT Be Used Around Pets

The following essential oils are considered toxic or high-risk for pets, even in small amounts or when diffused. They should not be used in products or home environments shared with animals:

• Wintergreen

• Pennroyal 

• Rose Geranium 

How to Use Essential Oils Safely Around Pets

Here are a few practical tips to help you enjoy your essential oils while keeping your pets safe:

• Always diffuse in a well-ventilated area and keep doors open so pets can leave if they choose

• Start with small amounts and observe your pet’s behaviour

• Avoid direct application of essential oils to your pet’s skin or fur unless recommended by a veterinarian

• Store oils safely out of reach from curious paws and noses

• Monitor for signs of sensitivity, such as sneezing, excessive licking, drooling, or hiding

If you notice anything unusual, discontinue use and consult your vet immediately.

Essential oils can be a beautiful addition to a calm and natural home environment, but when pets are part of the household, a little extra care is essential. While many oils are generally safe to use around animals, it's important to understand how they may respond differently.

By following a few simple safety guidelines and being mindful of your pet’s comfort, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy while supporting the wellbeing of every member of your family, fur and all.

FAQs: Essential Oil Use Around Pets

Can I diffuse essential oils around my pet?

Yes, but only in moderation and with proper ventilation. Be mindful of which oils you use, as some are more toxic to pets than others. Ensure your pet can leave the room and watch for any unusual behaviour like sneezing or hiding. Cats are more sensitive than dogs, so be especially cautious.

Are any essential oils safe to apply directly to my pet’s skin?

Generally no. Even diluted essential oils can cause irritation or be ingested through grooming. Always speak with a veterinarian before attempting topical use.

What should I do if my pet accidentally ingests essential oil?

Seek veterinary care immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional. Keep the product label handy to show the vet.

What signs of sensitivity should I watch for?

Look out for sneezing, excessive licking, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or hiding. If any of these occur, discontinue use and consult your vet.

Are diffusers with essential oils safe to leave on while I'm not home?

It’s best not to. Since pets can’t leave the area if they feel uncomfortable and you won’t be there to observe them, it’s safest to turn off diffusers when you're not home.

References:

Battaglia, S. (2024, April 26). Can I diffuse essential oils around cats? Salvatore Battaglia. https://salvatorebattaglia.com.au/blogs/news/can-i-diffuse-essential-oils-around-cats 

Battaglia, S. (2024, April 26). Using essential oils safely with cats. Salvatore Battaglia. https://salvatorebattaglia.com.au/blogs/news/using-essential-oils-safely-with-cats

BC SPCA. (2024, March 1). Safety alert! The dangers of essential oils and pets. https://spca.bc.ca/news/aromatherapy-pets/

Brown, C. (2024, June 6). What's the deal with pets and essential oils? Drool by Dr. Chris Brown. https://www.drool.pet/blogs/pet-news/the-easy-guide-for-pets-and-essential-oils

Lynbrook Vet. (n.d.). Essential oils & pets. https://lynbrookvet.com.au/essential-oils-pets/

Mitchell, S. C. (2024, July 15). Are essential oils safe for dogs? 7 to use and 12 to avoid. PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/are-essential-oils-safe-for-dogs