Aromatherapy for cats is a definite no-no! Aromatherapy is the use of essential plant oils for healing. The oils are extracts of flowers, leaves, stems, roots, seeds and bark and have many therapeutic uses in humans and even dogs, however your cat’s body is not designed to tolerate or metabolize the oils.
Aromatherapy for cats should never be attempted, no matter how ill your pet is. The oils can cause your cat to become poisoned, become ill or even die. Cats just cannot handle to compounds in essential oils, some herbs and a range of ordinary medicines. When such products are used on a cat they cannot be excreted and will build up in the body of the animal causing vomiting, dizziness, clumsiness, lack of appetite and lack of energy.
Cats also have thin, delicate skin so essential oils enter the bloodstream very quickly. Cats don’t enjoy strong smells and will avoid even diluted essential oils. Some owners have used aromatherapy for cats with disastrous results, never linking the essential oils to their cat’s illness.
Are there ways to use aromatherapy for cats that are safe? Yes! Hydrosols are a by-product of essential oil production. They are also called hydrolats. These products remain behind when oils are distilled. These products are safe to use on your cat. Your cat will be able to metabolize and tolerate them and will not become ill if you use them.
Hydrosol aromatherapy for cats can be applied in the form of a spritz for flea and tick control, ear cleaning or to calm your cat. They can also be used to make your pet smell good. They also do not need to be diluted according to the strict protocol that is used for essential oils. The scent is gentle and they are very good skin conditioners.
If you use this form of aromatherapy for cats you will find they have good anti-inflammatory action as they contain carboxylic acids. Hydrosols are also good mild antiseptics. Hydrosols may be used on puppies, cats and kittens as well as rabbits and ferrets and will have a positive influence on mood and emotions.
You can use this form of aromatherapy for cats in combinations for a range of uses. Use Roman chamomile to soothe your cat and care for its skin, lavender for soothing nerves and burns, rose to treat a sensitive skin, rashes and irritations. You can also blend different scents to deodorize your cat and its bedding or keep the litter area fresh and clean. Witch hazel water can be used as for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Aromatherapy for cats can also include the use of rose, neroli, rosemary, roman chamomile, linden, myrtle, lavender, geranium and bay laurel in hydrosol form. In this way safe aromatherapy for cats can become a useful aid to your pet. You will need to keep your hydrosols in the fridge or add vodka to the bottle to preserve it. Make sure the product you buy is a "hydrosol" or "hydrolat" or "steam distillate water". Avoid products that contain added synthetics.
