Fragrances not safe for pets

/ Learn something new / By
dog, labrador, pet-1861839.jpg
IF THE WICK FITZ BLOG POST

Oils that are not pet friendly

Many essential oils and fragrance oils can be toxic to animals. It is important to know which to avoid to keep your animals safe. Here are some oils that are commonly known to be toxic to pets

Essential Oils to avoid

Essential Oils are derived from plant sources and are made through either steam distillation or cold pressing

Essential oils can be harmful to pets in several ways. Some are known to be more toxic than others. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and citrus oils are often considered more problematic. Here are the top Essential oils that are toxic to pets.

    • Tea Tree Oil
    • Pennyroyal Oil
    • Wintergreen Oil
    • Eucalyptus Oil
    • Clove Oil
    • Thyme Oil
    • Cinnamon Oil
    • Citrus Oils (grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Orange)
    • Peppermint Oil
    • Pine Oil
    • Sweet Birch Oil
    • Ylang Ylang Oil
    • Anise Oil
    • Juniper Oil
    • Cajeput Oil

The severity of the reaction depends on various factors, including the type of essential oil, the amount ingested or inhaled, the species and size of the pet, and the individual pet’s sensitivity. It’s important to remember that what might be safe for one species of pet can be toxic to another.

Fragrances oils to avoid

Fragrance oils are synthetic and are used to mimic specific scents and fragrances

At If The Wick Fitz we use high quality Fragrance oils.  Although these both can have similar ingredients. So I have done extensive reseach into the essential oils that are listed to the left, to pin point each ingredient and cross check to see if any of our fragrances could potetially be harmful to animals.

The advised dilution of oils that contain potential toxic ingredients is 0.1% – 1% to insure it is safe for use around animals
Below is a list of fragrances that with a combine percentage of each flagged ingredient exceeds the 1% limit

  • Eucalyptus – 1.25%
  • Jasmine – 1.93%
  • Baby Powder – 3.45%
  • Lemon & Lime – 1.45%
  • Orange – 1.17%
  • Cinnamon – 3.65%
  • Apple & Cinnamon – 4.35%
  • Trick or Treat (halloween scent) – 2.12%
  • Mulled wine (Christmas scent) 1.16%
Below is a list of fragrances that are considered safe for use around animals as the combine percentage of each flagged ingredient is within the 0.01% – 1% limit. But are on the higher end.
 
  • Rose & Patchouli – 0.80%
  • Lavender – 0.94%
  • Apple – 0.64%
  • Hocus pocus (Halloween scent) – 0.87%
  • Jack o Lantern (Halloween scent) – 0.80

Looking for my information to keep your pet safe?

Below I have listed a few ways oils can cause issues for your pets. Although we do not use essential oils in our products. Similar issues can occur with fragrance oils. 

  • Ingestion: If a pet eats any essential/fragrance oils or a product that contains them. It can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and abdominal pain. Some essential oils are highly toxic and can cause severe organ damage, such as liver or kidney failure, and even death in severe cases.
  • Inhalation: Pets can inhale essential oils if they are diffused into the air. Inhalation of certain essential oils can lead to respiratory distress, coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. (these are listed above)
  • Skin Contact: Direct contact with essential oils on the skin can lead to irritation, redness, and itching. Pets may lick or scratch the affected area, which can result in ingestion of the oil and further complications.
  • Sensitivity to Certain Compounds: Pets can be sensitive to specific compounds found in essential oils. Cats, in particular, lack certain liver enzymes that are necessary to metabolize and eliminate some compounds present in essential oils, making them more susceptible to toxicity.
  • Allergic Reactions: Just like humans, pets can have allergic reactions to essential oils. These reactions can manifest as skin rashes, hives, swelling, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.
  • Neurological and Behavioral Effects: Ingesting or inhaling certain essential oils can affect a pet’s central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as tremors, seizures, confusion, and altered behavior.

Disclaimer: This post contains general information gathered by me via research through online content and should not replace professional veterinarian advice. Remember that pets vary in their sensitivities, so it’s important to ensure proper ventilation and monitor your pet for any signs of discomfort or respiratory issues.  If you notice adverse reactions consult a veterinarian for guidance.

Shopping Basket