Aroma Diffusers: Are They Safe For Dogs?

Essential oil diffusers are a popular way to make your home smell nice and create a relaxing atmosphere. However, they can be harmful to pets, including dogs. Essential oils are concentrated plant liquids, and while they may have health benefits for humans, they can be toxic to dogs, especially if ingested or if they come into contact with the dog's skin. Inhalation of essential oils can also lead to health issues in dogs, including aspiration pneumonia.

Toxicity of essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant substances. They are popular for aromatherapy and alternative medicine, but they can pose serious risks to dogs. The toxicity of essential oils depends on the type of oil, the concentration, and the method of exposure.

The most common routes of exposure are ingestion and skin contact. Many essential oils are toxic to dogs when ingested or when they come into contact with the skin. Some of the most toxic essential oils include tea tree oil, pennyroyal, citrus oil, cinnamon oil, clove oil, pine oil, wintergreen oil, sweet birch, ylang-ylang, and eucalyptus oil.

The signs of essential oil poisoning in dogs can include a strong fragrance on their fur, skin, or breath, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking, pawing at the mouth or face, redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin, and vomiting. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to essential oil poisoning, it is important to seek veterinary help immediately.

Inhaling essential oils can also be harmful to dogs, especially in small spaces or for prolonged periods. Diffusing essential oils can be dangerous, especially for dogs with asthma or respiratory issues. The powerful smell of essential oils can be overwhelming for dogs, whose sense of smell is much stronger than humans'.

To use essential oils safely around dogs, it is important to follow certain precautions. Keep oils out of your dog's reach, use proper ventilation when diffusing oils, and avoid direct application to your dog's skin without first consulting a veterinarian.

Inhalation dangers

Essential oils can be toxic to dogs, and diffusers release tiny droplets of oil into the air which dogs then inhale. The concentrated nature of essential oils means that even a small amount can be harmful.

The most common symptoms of essential oil toxicity in dogs are drooling, vomiting, coughing, and sneezing. Inhalation of essential oils can also lead to aspiration pneumonia, especially if the diffuser is used in a small space or for a long time. This is because the oil droplets can enter the lungs and cause inflammation and irritation.

Dogs with asthma or other respiratory issues are particularly at risk of fatal respiratory distress if exposed to diffused essential oils. Even if your dog does not have pre-existing respiratory issues, diffused essential oils can still aggravate their airways and cause coughing and rapid breathing.

The effects of essential oil inhalation can vary depending on the type of oil, the concentration, and the duration of exposure. Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and cinnamon oil, are more toxic than others.

If you suspect your dog has inhaled essential oils and is experiencing respiratory distress, move them to fresh air as soon as possible and seek veterinary care immediately.

Skin and fur contact

If your dog comes into skin or fur contact with essential oils, you should wash them off as soon as possible using hand dishwashing soap. If the essential oil is on their skin, you can also clean the affected area with warm water and mild handwashing or dishwashing soap.

Some signs of essential oil poisoning to look out for include irritation to the face, paws, or area of application, as well as retching or coughing. In more severe cases, animals may experience ataxia (the loss of full control of bodily movements) and difficulty breathing.

If you suspect that your dog has come into contact with essential oils and is experiencing any adverse effects, it is important to seek veterinary care for your pet immediately. On the way to the vet, you can call the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control telephone line for advice and information.

Ingestion risks

Ingestion of essential oils by dogs can lead to poisoning and choking hazards. If ingested, concentrated essential oils can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, depression, and in severe cases, organ failure and death.

Some essential oils are more toxic than others, but the concentration level and what the product is mixed with also play a role. For example, tea tree oil may cause issues for dogs with only seven or eight drops, whereas another oil may take more or less.

If a dog ingests essential oils, it is important to seek veterinary help immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless advised to do so by a veterinarian. Treatment will depend on the type of essential oil, the dog's condition, and the time elapsed since exposure.

To prevent ingestion, essential oils should be stored in a locked cabinet, out of a dog's reach.

Safe alternatives

If you're concerned about the effects of your aroma diffuser on your dog, there are several alternatives you can try.

Firstly, it is important to note that diffusers themselves are fairly harmless to dogs. The main concern is the essential oils that are placed in them. Many essential oils, such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and cinnamon, are toxic to dogs whether they are applied to the skin or used in diffusers.

If you wish to continue using a diffuser, there are some essential oils that are generally considered safe for dogs. These include:

• Lavender essential oil, which can promote rest and relaxation.
• Rosemary essential oil, which can improve energy levels and concentration.
• Ginger essential oil, which can boost the immune system and help with motion sickness and nausea.
• Myrrh essential oil, which is a safe alternative to unsafe holiday favourites like cinnamon.
• Frankincense essential oil, which can promote peace and relaxation.

However, it is important to remember that even these "safe" oils should be used with caution. Dogs have very sensitive noses, so always use a low concentration of essential oils and ensure your space is well-ventilated. It is also a good idea to contact your vet before using any essential oils around your dog.

If you're looking for an alternative to essential oil diffusers, there are a few options to consider:

• Clean-burning candles made from soy or beeswax.
• Simmering aromatics on your stovetop.
• Pet-safe products, such as the Arm & Hammer Calming Reed Diffuser for Pet Households or the ThunderCloud Calming Sound Machine & Essential Oils Diffuser Machine.

Frequently asked questions