Essential Oils Safe and Unsafe for Pets (Dogs & Cats)

AureLiv
Jun 24
3 min read

Essential oils smell lovely, but not all of them are safe for our furry friends. Some oils can calm pets, while others can make them very sick. In this guide, we’ll show you which essential oils are safe for pets and which ones to avoid. Whether you love candles, sprays, or diffusers, you’ll learn how to keep your pets safe and your home smelling great.

Dog and cat surrounded by safe essential oils

What Happens When Pets Breathe in Essential Oils
Why Some Oils Are Unsafe
What Are Safe vs. Unsafe Essential Oils?
What Are Signs of Essential Oil Poisoning in Pets?
What Are The Benefits Of Essential Oils for Pets?
What Are Some Tips to Keep Pets Safe with Essential Oils?
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What Happens When Pets Breathe in Essential Oils?

When we use candles or diffusers, oils go into the air. This is called passive diffusion. Pets breathe in these scents too. Some pets may be fine. Others may cough, drool, or feel sick.

Cats are very sensitive. Some oils can hurt their liver or lungs. Even a small amount may be too much.

Dogs are stronger than cats but can still get sick if they breathe in too much oil or lick it off their fur.

Always burn pet-safe candles or oils in an open space. Make sure your pet can leave the room. Watch for signs like sneezing, panting, or drooling.

Why Some Oils Are Unsafe for Pets

Pets’ bodies work differently from ours. Cats can’t break down some parts of oils. These build up and hurt their liver. Dogs are a little better but can still get sick.

Pets can get sick by:

Breathing in strong smells
Getting oil on their fur or skin
Licking or eating the oil

Some oils can even cause nerve or liver damage. So it’s important to know what’s safe.

Safe vs Unsafe Essential Oils for Pets

✅ Safe for Dogs	Lavender, Chamomile, Frankincense, Ginger, Cedarwood, Peppermint, Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus	Use in small amounts; ensure good airflow.
❌ Toxic to Dogs	Tea Tree, Pennyroyal, Wintergreen, Pine	Can cause liver damage, vomiting, or seizures.
✅ Safe for Cats	Lavender, Chamomile, Frankincense, Ginger, Cedarwood (Atlas type only)	Use rarely, in very diluted form, and only with excellent ventilation.
❌ Toxic to Cats	Tea Tree, Citrus (lemon/orange), Clove, Eucalyptus, Ylang Ylang, Geranium, Pine	Even small amounts may be harmful; avoid entirely.

Signs of Essential Oil Poisoning in Pets

Watch your pet closely when using oils. Here are warning signs:

Sneezing or coughing
Drooling
Vomiting or diarrhea
Weakness or shaking
Trouble breathing

If you see any of these, stop using the oil right away. Take your pet to fresh air. Call your vet or poison control.

Can Any Essential Oils Help Pets?

Cat and dog relaxing with essential oils

Yes! Some oils can help calm dogs. These include:

Lavender – Helps dogs relax during car rides or storms.
Chamomile – Calms nerves and helps with rest.
Frankincense – Used by some vets for comfort.
Ginger – May help dogs with nausea.

But even “safe” oils should be used carefully:

✅ Use just a few drops.
✅ Burn in open rooms.
✅ Never put oils on your pet’s fur or skin.
❌ Don’t let pets lick oils or chew candles.
❌ Avoid all oils for cats unless your vet says it’s okay.

Tips to Keep Pets Safe with Essential Oils

Here are our friendly tips to keep your pets happy and safe:

Ventilate the Room – Open windows when using scented candles or diffusers.
Watch Your Pet’s Behavior – If they leave the room, turn it off.
Use Only a Little – More oil doesn’t mean better. Start small.
Store Oils Safely – Keep bottles where pets can’t reach them.
Ask a Vet – Not sure if an oil is safe? Ask your vet first.

🕯 Try Pet-Safe Candles from Aureliv

Essential oils can be calming for us—but can be harmful for pets. Now that you know which essential oils are safe for pets, you can enjoy your favorite scents without worry. Looking for candles you can feel good about lighting around your pets? Aureliv candles are made just for homes like yours.

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