Animal Aromatherapy with Dogs and Cats

Animal aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils and other aromatic substances to promote the well-being of animals. Like humans, animals can experience benefits from aromatherapy, including reduced anxiety, improved mood, and physical health support. However, it's important to note that animals are generally more sensitive to scents than humans, and not all essential oils are safe.

Common questions include:

Q. What's the best way to use aromatherapy with animals?

Inhalation is the safest and most effective way to use aromatherapy with animals. With their powerful olfactory system, almost every condition will benefit from inhalation, including skin conditions. Essential oils, hydrosols, and herbs can be inhaled to relieve pain, reduce anxiety, soothe respiratory conditions, and much more.

 

Q. Are essential oils safe to diffuse around cats?

Cats' liver enzymes are less efficient and slower at metabolizing certain substances than other animals, such as dogs or humans. This is due to their lack of specific liver enzymes, particularly glucosyl transferase, which is crucial for processing and detoxifying many compounds, including those found in essential oils, medications, and certain drugs. Because of this, some essential oils commonly safe for other animals or humans can be toxic to cats. These oils can accumulate in their systems, leading to potential poisoning or liver damage.

When used appropriately, essential oils can be safely diffused around cats in your home. To ensure their safety, avoid or use caution with oils high in phenols, such as clove bud, thyme CT thymol, and peppermint.

A safe, pet-friendly idea is to use an ultrasonic diffuser with 1–4 drops for 10–30 minutes, 1–2 times daily. Always allow animals to walk away from a scent. Ensure they can access fresh air via an open window, door, or well-ventilated room. 

 

Q. What essential oils are toxic to dogs? 

It's important to remember that any essential oil can be harmful when used incorrectly. It's best to avoid the same essential oils recommended for people and start with kid-friendly ones. Most essential oils can be used safely with dogs when diluted (1% or less) or diffused appropriately. We recommend not putting the essential oil on the dog’s collar or bandana – animals must be able to walk away from the scent if they find it overwhelming. 

Hydrosols are gentler than essential oils, and most are safe to use topically on your pets.

If you are interested in working with animals and aromatherapy, Essence of Thyme offers a 60-hour Animal Aromatherapy Certification Program.

References: EOTCHS Animal Aromatherapy Program with Amy DeLong

Article by: Colleen Thompson, Cert Ed, MIFPA, RA®, EOT®, CA

For over 25 years, Colleen Thompson has been a passionate and highly respected aromatherapy educator. She has owned 3 aromatherapy stores and a holistic spa, and she founded Essence of Thyme in 1995, where she mentors budding aromatherapists from all over the world, helping them create their own thriving aromatherapy businesses.

About Essence of Thyme College of Holistic Studies

Essence of Thyme College of Holistic Studies offers 300- and 630-hour professional aromatherapy certification programs that help you grow a successful, fulfilling career by specializing and creating your market niche. Professional Level Certification prepares graduates to become aromatherapy consultants, launch product lines or retail businesses, or provide services as an adjunct to existing holistic health specializations. Master Level Certification and electives are ideal for certified aromatherapists seeking higher education or a path to clinical aromatherapy practice.

All Essence of Thyme programs focus on aromatherapy product development and advanced formulation, evidence-based research, spa and business management, international industry regulatory guidelines, and sustainability and conservation of essential oil and carrier oil-bearing plants.

Our comprehensive, evidence-based programs meet or exceed the criteria set forth by 5 international professional aromatherapy associations. Learn more about our aromatherapy certification programs.