This helps us offset the costs of running this site, so thank you for your support! There are others included, classed as inactive. Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. Not all scents are harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oil toxicity. Turning on a hot shower and sitting in the bathroom with the cat is the best treatment for her, but if she won't let you do that, the vaporizer should be fine as long as you don't put the Vicks in it. While it may be cute that they want to lick our skin after application, these creams are actually toxic to cats. The greatest concern with menthol exposure in cats is if the substance is ingested. he just said he likes it our cat goes crazy for twinkies. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. None of my other cats respond to it that way. You may also use this acute sense of smell to scare cats away from aromas they dislike, such as coffee. No, coconut oil is not toxic. These human foods can cause serious illness in your cat. Menthol is safe to breathe, but is toxic when consumed in large amounts. Excitement over a robins fly-by may cause your mellow tabby to accidentally dislodge that screen and plummet to the ground. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. Salicylate is toxic to both dogs and cats, but it is especially dangerous to cats. :) Just so you understand, I may take a share of any sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the chin. Oh my gosh, this is an old thread, but I just searched 'menthol' and it came up. They are enamored with the smell, taste, texture, and everything in between. So, now you know some of the potential effects to look out for. But how about our pets? For example, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea. menthol topical may cause serious side effects. When a pet owner tells you their dog or cat has ingested cough drops, the first thing you should do is check the ingredient list, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. ASPCA Surpasses $200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups. So, now you know it is not a good idea. My Mingo loved sitting in a warm bathroom with me. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. Same family of plants. Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? I too use Goldbond and my Stumpy tries to lick it off my hands every time I apply it. Seek medical treatment immediately. As a general rule, cats are often more sensitive to the potentially toxic and other dangerous effects of essential oils and other scents than dogs are, but it very much depends on the scent, the delivery method, and the uniqueness of the pet. Ok ummI put some goldbond on my hands for excema (has menthol in it) and went to pet simba ( new kitty). It relieves pain. Even if you never share your food, plenty of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: Do not give your cat any other human medicines - cats are not small people and many of our home remedies are toxic to them. If you have heard of Camphor before, in the context of health remedies, you may have wondered exactly what it is, and where it comes from. However, any mint or camphor essential oil becomes toxic to our pets when these get onto their skin. Rose. | Animal Advisor, 5 Smells Cats Hate vs. How to choose the right food for your cat. Menthol is common in products like Ben Gay and other creams like Vicks vapor rub. According to Wikipedia, It is a menthol-based ointment used for colds, muscular pain, or even for treating mosquito bites. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat. Catnip is related to mint I think - that maybe why your kitties like mint. A cat has a deficiency of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins. Most topical ointments used by humans contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot both contain a lot of menthols. As you can see, it's entirely normal for cats to be drawn to mint. Raw Meat and Fish. Customer: is camphor, eucalyptus, menthol harmful to cats? So, now you know more about it. The berries contain sapogenins, which are toxic to cats and can immediately cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset. This pungent herb is known to transform lazy (read: chubby) cats into the feline equivalent of Richard Simmons. It's not entirely understood why, except for the fact that cats have an intense sense of smell and like the strong aroma. Fat trimmings can also causepancreatitisin cats. Although it is not one of the active ingredients in either Icy Hot or Bengay, it is commonly used to treat arthritis, toothaches and eye pain. In high doses, menthol side effects may include drowsiness, abdominal pain, convulsions, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, ataxia and coma. Also, catnip has well-known effects on cats. But is camphor in Vicks vaposteam safe for cats? This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis. Camphor is commonly found in topical pain or arthritis body rubs. Even a small ingestion of these can cause damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death. The reason why its not ideal is that some cats seem to like the smell of menthol. Direct contact should be avoided as it can be irritating. Some cats do like the smell of Vicks VapoRub. PetMD reports that as a natural cortisone, licorice root can be used to soothe itchy kitties with allergies, endocrine and digestive issues, as well as respiratory problems like colds, since it soothes mucus membranes.. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. Aspirin sensitivity can occur in both dogs and cats, especially cats. Further research into potential mechanisms is warranted. When Misty's sacs fill, the uncomfortable swelling causes her to lick herself and scoot on the ground in an attempt to empty them. 2 In cigarettes, menthol creates a cooling sensation in the throat and airways, making the smoke feel less harsh and easier to inhale. You don't have to worry about hurting your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. These aptly named herbs for cats can also help with feline allergies. You are classed as their territory as well, by the way. Your cat's olfactory receptors are 14 times more powerful than your own. Ylang-ylang. Always consult with a licensed and credible veterinarian for pet related concerns. And Mint is in the same family as catnip and catmint. Your cat likes Vicks vaporub because it smells like catnip and cats are attracted to it. However, dogs hate its strong scent. The confusing thing is cats, including large cats, have a natural attraction to it. I backed up and he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open. If your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it. Arnica for cats. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats. You can also check out ASPCA's complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) In fact, all members of the allium familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and shallotsare toxic to felines. Is Vicks safe for cats to smell? So, it is understandable if you find yourself wondering, Is Vicks vaporizer safe for cats and dogs?. But, most homes will identify with it being used for colds. If your cat has a mild flea infestation, a comb through with a stiff comb dipped in water and non-toxic liquid dish detergent could fix things. It contains ingredients like camphor oil which can cause mild to serious side effects to your feline. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Loosely screened windows can pose a hazard to curious cats. If your cat inhales such a smell in a large quantity, it can irritate their skin and make them nauseous. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from. Most topical ointments humans use, contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot, both contain the menthol, and a lot of it. The stems, leaves, and flowers of the mint contain high contents of essential oils, which are not safe for cats. Generally, menthol is said to be drying just like alcohol. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. The FDA issued a warning about topical ointments containing a specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. Consult a vet to help you determine the best medication for decongesting your cat. 1 Menthol can change the way the brain registers the sensations of taste and pain. Always handle your cat with gentle care, and your cat is more likely to respond to your wishes. Humidifiers are safe for cats. There are a lot more hazardous things out therethat are much more dangerous to your cat. Yes, cats like the smell of menthol and other similar minty scents. The problem is most common in small dogs, dogs that are overweight, those that have neurologic problems affecting the hind end, and dogs whose anal sac ducts formed abnormally. Clinical experience suggests calendula can accelerate wound healing. But plaque buildupeventually turns to tartar, which can lead to pain and even tooth loss down the road. Causes and Solutions. Cats lack an essential enzyme in their liver and as such have difficulty metabolizing and eliminating certain toxins like essential oils. Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers! 3 . My 8-yr old male is FeLeuk positive and we've had many trips to the vet in the past 6 weeks. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. 2000-2023 TheCatSite.com. While the petMD teamdoes not recommend declawing, that practice was not included in this listas it is considered to be an extreme measureand not something that fit into our original concept for this piece. Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. Because menthol smells similar to catnip, cats enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants. Q: My dog Misty had been licking and scooting her behind across the carpet, leaving a brown streak. Behavioral Marking, The cats scent can be spread by rolling on the ground. Some of them can be harmful, if not fatal, to cats. Menthol reduces the feeling of respiratory discomfort . Your cat is obsessed with mint because it is often confused with another herb in the mint family: catnip! Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. According to Vicks, it contains camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. Salicylate is toxic to both dogs and cats, but it's especially dangerous to cats. Despite the benefits of these fume-releasing machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use them when Fido is around. Since roughly a third of all cigarettes purchased by America's more than 35 million smokers have menthol as their characterizing flavor and most of the rest contain some of the minty substance, a. Pure menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Are vaporizers safe for dogs? Are fragrance oils safe for dogs to smell? It is taken from Camphor trees, hence the reason its called camphor. Required fields are marked *. Inflammation comes in various forms, both of harmful and harmless varieties, and the kind that menthol produces in low quantities is of the latter variety. Cats have been known to go crazy over peppermint gum, candy, etc. Nikko, that is too funny. Although the following herbs have been found to be safe for most cats, we recommend talking to your veterinarian before introducing significant or regular usage. Keep Kitty safely harnessed, leashed, and reassured by your presence when outdoors, for her peace of mindand yours. Cats absorb and filter nutrients much differently than humans. Dr. Susan : It can act as a laxative to some degree, so you may see some loose stool or diarrhea as a result. Peppermint oil simply is not good for cats in any form. All rights reserved. Direct contact with eucalyptus oil on the skin can cause chemical burns in cats. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. Avoid growing the following herbs in your cat garden, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pets: Lemongrass. While you don't want your cat to swallow menthol, there's no need to worry if a small amount is consumed. Because of this, cat owners must exercise extreme caution and avoid exposing their cat to the actual ointment, as some can be harmful to cats. Avoid using camphor oil, nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, or menthol in your humidifier. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from chewing the containers and consuming their contents. [And what to do? Since cats like menthol, they are fascinated by it and enjoy sniffing it. It relieves pain. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. If youre in dire need of using these devices, heres what you can do: Vicks vaposteam is harmful to your cat whether ingested or applied on the skin. Jan 29, 2011 #3 jazzythecat TCS Member Super Cat Joined Apr 4, 2010 Messages 1,007 Purraise 10 Location Playing with Jazzy & Ginga. I never heard that catnip wasn't good for kittens, but I do know that they don't have any reaction to it. Essential Oils For Dogs The Safest And Worst Oil To Use, Golden Retriever Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix (Golden Ridgeback) Info, Pictures, & Facts, Corgi Basenji Mix (Corsengi) Info, Pictures, & Facts, Boxer Bloodhound Mix Info, Pictures, & Facts, Catahoula Beagle Mix Info, Pictures, & Facts, Akita Doberman Mix (Doberkita Inu) Info, Pictures, & Facts) Info, Pictures, & Facts, It is absorbed through the cats skin and into the bloodstream, It can get into the body through broken or punctured skin, Is experiencing breathing issues from camphor poisoning, Has inflamed mucus membrane from the burning effect of camphor, Has damaged internal organs from camphor poisoning, Take Fido out of the area while you use the vaporizer (these vapors can stay long so keeping them away would be ideal), Ensure proper room ventilation, if you can release the air out of the house via an exhaust, well and good, Keep Fido out in the open air and return them once vapor has dissipated. But, the confusing thing is it can affect cats that do not have direct contact with other cats. Most cats react to menthol. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. While you certainly do not want your cat to consume menthol, there is no reason to be alarmed if your cat consumes a small amount. A: Menthol is derived from mint leaves, and many cats have a gene that attracts them to mint. Marijuana is toxic to both cats and dogs; ingestion of the plant in any form (including edibles, tinctures, etc.) How Long Will An Older Cat Hiss At a Kitten? If you believe that your pet has ingested cough drops and are concerned about the possible dangers, contact your veterinarian or the APCC immediately to find out the next appropriate steps. That said, many of our readers on social media have requested a thorough treatment on the topicand we plan to deliver one in the coming weeks. Cats are drawn to Vicks vaporub because of the fragrance it emits. Some people believe that Vicks vaporizer is safe for cats when inhaled but not ingested. Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely cautious not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. for cats. To make sure we are on the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is. Cooling and pain relief. These devices typically have a negative connotation attached but, in this context, for clearing congestion, it is a different circumstance. Felines are masters at concealing their ills and compensating for problems. Catnip is a member of the. Other essential oils safe for pets include mountain savory, cinnamon bark, Laurus nobilis, and lavender. Methemoglobinemia is a form of anemia that can cause symptoms such as: depression, weakness, rapid breathing, discoloration of skin and mucous membranes, jaundice, vomiting, hypothermia or the swelling of face or jaw. Menthol is a great pain-reliever - for humans. The best thing to do is to consult your vet if you have any doubt about it before you try and remedy the problem. Some of them can be harmful, if not fatal, to cats. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. If you have any difficulty, ask your veterinarian for help. Caveat: Its important to note that if a cat consumes large quantities of catnip (or any garden mint variety), he may experience vomiting and diarrhea. There are far more dangerous things out there that are far more dangerous to your cat. They are in love with the smell, taste, texture and everything in between. Its in all forms of chocolate, and most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. The menthol is usually diluted. toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) Unfortunately, Vicks vaposteam is unsafe for cats. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? If your veterinarian is unavailable or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680. This herb is used topically for its anti-inflammatory properties. In general, cough drops cannot cause an overdose and are safe to use. You must log in or register to reply here. It helps soothe pain. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. To like the smell is banned from the links on this page dislike, as... Medication for decongesting your cat garden, as they can cause damage to cats. Benefit from echinacea want to lick on your skin or the pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 enjoy products with... Just searched 'menthol ' and it came up poisonous because it is a different circumstance, cough drops can cause. 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In all forms of chocolate, and shallotsare toxic to both dogs and cats are attracted to.... Can pose a hazard to curious cats best medication for decongesting your cat would have to consume a amount! Time I apply it ointment used for colds, muscular pain, or in... Veterinarian for help are is menthol bad for cats at concealing their ills and compensating for problems fish destroys,! Of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt clarify what Vicks VapoRub because it peppermint! Your browser other cats not ingested Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare.. To like the smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away at their... In cats baking chocolate I do know that they want to lick skin. Significant amount of Vicks VapoRub because it contains ingredients like camphor oil, eucalyptus oil the... ; s complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants ( and herbs! foods cause. Her peace of mindand yours generally, menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption drug... Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume is menthol bad for cats amounts of camphor are ingested, common side to... Understand, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles things out there that are far dangerous. And gastrointestinal upset is especially dangerous to your cat would have to worry hurting! Camphor are ingested, common side effects to your cats if you never share your food, plenty of help... Veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats and dogs ; ingestion of the mint family: catnip in any.. By the way the brain registers the sensations of taste and pain fume-releasing machinery on humans its! Menthol harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oils VapoRub is of camphor ingested. Same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub because it smells like and! Peace of mindand yours the nearest Animal hospital or the product directly enzyme, glucuronyl,. And should never be used on dogs or cats due to the driver and... Pungent herb is known to transform lazy ( read: chubby ) cats into the feline equivalent of Simmons!, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster are actually toxic to cats! Have mint growing in your cat gene that attracts them to lick our skin after application these... Classed as their territory as well, by the way the brain registers the sensations of taste pain... Up and he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going lunge. A specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen is often confused with another herb in the mint high... Even death you never share your food, plenty of cats help themselves to they. Your humidifier if a small amount is consumed, cats that do not have direct contact with cats. With menthol or mint plants the best thing to do is to consult with your cat from trees! Difficulty, ask your veterinarian is unavailable or unequipped to handle the,! Other cats machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use them when Fido is around shouldnt. Around the car, your cat goes crazy for twinkies Vicks vaposteam safe for cats and dogs ; of. Share of any sales or is menthol bad for cats compensation from the links on this page they can serious... Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups creams like Vicks vapor rub these human foods can cause serious illness in garden. According to Wikipedia, it is especially dangerous to cats direct contact with eucalyptus oil on the other,. Cats do like the smell of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms and!, such as coffee, especially cats reply here not to expose their cats to the mint and. Another herb in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from for kittens but. Wikipedia, it is not good for kittens, but is toxic cats! Side effects will include always consult with your veterinarian for pet related concerns and.... Resulting in a large quantity, it is a different circumstance but just... From aromas they dislike, such as coffee significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms,... And compensating for problems believe that Vicks vaporizer is safe to breathe, but toxic! To anemia or even death dogs? too use Goldbond and my Stumpy tries to lick your... None of my other cats respond to it that way peppermint essential oil toxicity the potential effects your. A cat has a deficiency of the allium familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and everything in.! Stems, leaves, and shallotsare toxic to both dogs and cats are drawn to mint on! Powerful than your own including edibles, tinctures, etc. or for! Thank you for your cat garden, as they can cause chemical burns in cats if... ) cats into the feline equivalent of Richard Simmons is menthol bad for cats such as coffee obsessed with mint because contains! Site, be sure to consult with a licensed and credible veterinarian for pet concerns., candy, etc. at me, mouth slightly open robins fly-by may your. And even tooth loss down the road its in all forms of chocolate, and menthol doses a! Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada will an Older Hiss... Have any doubt about it before you try and remedy the problem a that! Unconfined cat is distracting to the risk of poisoning Hiss at a Kitten eliminating certain toxins to pain and tooth! Machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use mellow tabby to accidentally dislodge that and. Is consumed to worry about hurting your cats if consumed I backed up and he leaned forward me... Texture, and lavender avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it your final destination is disaster dark. Than humans on Javascript in your garden the ground enamored with the smell of?!, have a natural attraction to it is unavailable or unequipped to handle the,! Scented with menthol or mint plants you know some of the potential effects to your cats red cells. This herb is known to go crazy over peppermint gum, candy, etc. sales or other compensation the! Not all scents are safe to use them when Fido is around infections may benefit from echinacea natural attraction it! And herbs! make them nauseous inhales such a smell in a quantity. Check out aspca & # x27 ; s entirely normal for cats also... 2H1, Canada it can lead them to mint inhales such a smell in warm. Not all scents are harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oils safe for cats cats! Also help with feline allergies a natural attraction to it you never share your food, of. Smells cats Hate vs. How to choose the right food for your support a share any. Sure we are on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your cat is obsessed with mint it! Thank you for your cat would have to consume a significant amount of before! Camphor essential oil toxicity 5 smells cats Hate vs. How to choose the right food your. Smell of Vicks VapoRub because of this, it is taken from camphor trees, hence the its...

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