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Making Aromatherapy Safe for Pets

March 07, 2018 3 min read

Making Aromatherapy Safe for Pets

As a fur momma, I would do anything to keep my beloved Sophie healthy. Just as aromatherapy can benefit humans both physically and psychologically, it can be just as beneficial to our companion animals. Whenever I can’t bring Sophie out with me, which is so rare, I’ll leave her home with the scent of lavender populating the air. It helps keeps her calm, and surely relieves her separation anxiety while I’m gone.


Another important aspect of using essential oils safely around pets is to use only 100% pure, natural and unrefined therapeutic grade essential oils. Some essential oils contain additives or are stretched with carrier oils that may trigger pet sensitivities. Remember to double-check the ingredients description to make sure you are getting what you pay for. I recommend to diffuse your essential oils; they will gain the same therapeutic benefits.

How much essential oil should I use with my pet?

The saying “a little goes a long way” should be your rule of thumb when using essential oils. If you choose to use essential oils topically, be sure to dilute 80–90 percent of your essential oil prior to application. For example, for every 1 drop of oil, use 4–5 drops of carrier oil that best suits your pet. I use peppermint oil topically on Sophie to soothes the pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, as well as repelling pests.

Essential oils are natural, but you may be worried that the wrong essential oil can trigger a negative reaction in your pets. Every pet is different and may react differently to particular essential oils. It’s important to remember that our pets have a stronger sense of smell than us. So, the biggest mistake a pet owner can make is using too much essential oil. Try applying 1 to 2 drops to your diffuser to test how your best will react to the oil. When diffusing your essential oil be sure to have a door open for your fur baby, in case your pet wants to exit.

When it comes to animals and essential oils, we always recommend that pet owners consult with their veterinarian to get advice on the proper way to use them. The application can vary based on the individual pet's species, age, size and health history. Although essential oils can be effective for pets, you never want to make a situation worse. So please, before you go essential oil crazy, talk to your veterinarian.

Located below are some Radha Beauty essential oils that are NOT recommended for cats and dogs.

Avoid with Dogs

  • Clove
  • Rosemary
  • Tea Tree
  • Ylang Ylang
  • Cinnamon
  • Peppermint

Avoid with Cats

  • Cinnamon
  • Orange
  • Clove
  • Eucalyptus
  • Lemon
  • Lavender
  • Peppermint
  • Tea Tree
  • Ylang Ylang
  • Oregano
  • Lavender

Although eucalyptus is a safe essential oil for dogs, Sophie dislikes it. I was only able to figure that out because I slowly introduced the scent and made sure to watch how it made her feel. I didn’t like her reaction to the scent so I immediately stopped using it around her. Since every pet is different, an essential oil that can benefit one might trigger a different response in another. When using essential oils for your own health, make sure you also exercise caution around your pets.

Look out for these symptoms of poisoning:

  • The overwhelming smell of essential oils on their fur, skin, breath or vomit
  • 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

Call a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet may have been poisoned.

As long as you avoid any of the oils that may trigger issues for your pets, they are perfectly safe. Make sure that you are exercising the best practices when introducing essential oils into your home. Using a quality diffuser and 100% pure, natural and unrefined therapeutic grade oils in a safe and careful manner is most important. Be sure to go slow and monitor your pets to see how they react. Just remember, to put your babies first!

Post by Rebekah Letch