Man’s best friend. No, I’m not talking about essential oils! For most of us, our pets are a vital part of our families (like our spouses or children, we can’t wait to see them after a stressful day away), so why not use essential oils on them too? Although many essential oils can be used on household and farm animals, it’s important to understand the precautions to take before using them.
When using essential oils on animals, it’s very important to take size into consideration. As you know, we dilute oils more heavily for children than for adults; the same principle applies here. You can apply a more concentrated amount to your thoroughbred than your Cocker Spaniel. Like with humans, it’s imperative that you dilute all essential oils prior to application.
As it is recommended that some people don’t use certain essential oils, the same goes for animals. Essential oils should predominantly be used on dogs and horses. Although there are some oils that can be used on cats, they are much more sensitive than other animals. Unlike us, cats lack the liver enzyme that helps break down the chemicals in the oils. This means that the chemicals can build-up over time and cause negative side effects, such as liver damage and even death.
Below is a list of essential oils to use or avoid with particular animals. This list is by no means exclusive, and it’s recommended that you consult with your veterinarian prior to use.
Dogs
Use: Bergamot, Chamomile, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Helichrysum, Lavender, Lemongrass, Marjoram, Peppermint, Sweet Orange, Tea Tree (dilute extra well)
Use Sparingly: Camphor, Cassia, Clove, Oregano, Thyme, Wintergreen
Horses
Use: Basil, Bergamot, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, Tea Tree
If you’re interested in using essential oils on your dog, but don’t know where to start, here’s a recipe for shampoo that will leave your pup looking and smelling great (until he rolls in that puddle of mud again).
Essentially Great Doggie Shampoo
Ingredients
- 10 oz. Water
- 2 oz. Aloe Vera
- 1 Tbsp. Liquid Castile Soap
- 4 drops Bergamot Essential Oil
- 4 drops Lavender Essential Oil
- 4 drops Peppermint Essential Oil
Instructions
In a jar, combine all ingredients. Be sure to add essential oils one drop at a time. Secure lid and shake well. To use, lather and rinse well. Keep away from eyes. Use as needed.
*For informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Search our online catalog for Bergamot, Lavender or Peppermint essential oil products
12 comments
Just got a dog last Saturday and this post just answered my questions! Love your products!
I am looking good for a good brand of essential oils but can’t decide what company to choose, is there a way to send me a sample so I could give it a try? What is the best oil to use for dog for tick prevention? Thank you so much in advance. Best regards, Britta Cross
Thank you for contacting us Britta. Unfortunately we do not provide samples of our essential oils. We do, however, offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you do not like the scent of an oil, you can simply return it within 14 days for a refund of the cost of the product.
Lemongrass and Citronella are natural insect repellents. You can use these oils mixed with a carrier oil, or you can use our Bug Away Spritz which is already pre-diluted and ready to apply. Remember it is always best to consult with your veterinarian before starting any essential oil regimen on your pets as they are familiar with their individual health history.
I have a 4 pound Yorkie mix, and she has always had trouble breathing and lots of eye leakage (as if she always has a cold). My veterinarian says it’s just her breed and to keep her as clean as possible. Is there an oil that would help with these symptoms?
It is very important to take the size of your animal into consideration when using any essential oil regimen. Because your dog is only 4 lbs, I would not recommend applying essential oils topically. To ease breathing you can try diffusing 1-2 drops of Peppermint or our Fresh Air blend. It is always best to consult with your veterinarian before using any essential oils as they are familiar with the specific health history of your pet.
Hello there, I have two Golden Retrievers. One of them had a cyst that busted and drained. The other now will not stop licking the would. He is licking her skin raw. I then shaved around the area and he still won’t stop. I put some diluted carrot seed on her to help her from getting sunburned, but can you help with an oil to stop him from licking her? Thanks!
It is important to note that we reccommend consulting with your vetraniarian before applying any essential oils on your pet, especially if they may potentially lick the oil. With that being said, Lavender essential oil has been known to help our furry friends with the problem of licking wounds. This is because they do not like the taste of the oil and it is also one of the safer essential oils to use on pets.You do need to frequently re-apply Lavender to the wound, because once it wears off the licking will start up again. The idea here is to break your dog of the behavior, so being diligent from the get-go should mean they’ll stop licking on their own after a while.
What type of aloe Vera is used in the recipe for the dog shampoo?
You will want to use liquid Aloe Vera for the dog shampoo as it will combine best with the other ingredients.
I truly enjoy these informative emails! Absolutely love recipes too ????. Thanks so much, love my oils
I just got these oils and use them in my diffuser. Should I be cautious with which ones I use? I have two cats. I don’t plan on using the oils on them but could the aroma be harmful?
Dayna, Thank you for your question. As we shared in our blog, cats are very sensitive to essential oils that other mammals, like dogs and horses, are not. Use particular caution with essential oils that contain phenolics, such as Oregano, Thyme, Cinnamon, Tea Tree, Clove, Summer Savory, Winter Savory, and Cassia. If you have cats, you should avoid using oils with monoterpene hydrocarbons, such as Lemon, Orange, Tangerine, Mandarin, Grapefruit, Lime, Bergamot, Pine, Spruce, and Fir, as this compound is used in many natural bug repellants and household cleaners and cats are most sensitive to it. Since you aren’t planning on using them directly on your cats, I recommend consulting with your vet to make the best decision for you and your household.