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Health risks pets face from essential oils

Published January 11, 2018 8:44 PM

Animal experts are warning pet owners about the dangers essential oils may pose for their furry companions.

Essential oils may be therapeutic and have health benefits, but oils such as cinnamon bark, peppermint, oregano and especially tea tree can cause rashes or respiratory issues for pets.

Tom Synder, the CEO of Animal Samaritans, told KESQ News Channel 3 and CBS Local 2 what to do when a pet is impacted by the oils.

“If you notice a rash on your pet’s skin caused by the oils, first thing you’ll want to do is get some cold water, try to dilute it, as best you can. If you don’t see the rash going away or if your pet is still having trouble breathing from vapors, then you’ll want to visit the vet.”

House cleaning items can also pose a risk to pets.

“Think about Lysol or Febreze you might spray around the cat’s litter box. If you spray heavily to get rid of the odor and you let the cat come in after, you can cause irritation to their lungs,” Snyder said.