Reviewed By: Kacie La
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How to Safely Use Essential Oils Around Pets
Essential oils are a popular way to add natural fragrance to your home or create handmade soaps and cleaners. However, many pet owners are unaware that certain oils can pose a risk to animals. Cats and dogs are far more sensitive to scents than humans, and their bodies process substances differently, which means what’s harmless to us can be dangerous to them.
Living with pets often involves small compromises—like storing away certain plants or foods—and using essential oils is no exception. With the right knowledge and careful use, it’s entirely possible to enjoy essential oils safely without putting your furry companions at risk.
In this guide, we’ll explore which essential oils are safe to use around pets, which ones to avoid, and practical tips for creating a pet-friendly home using natural aromatic products. Read on to learn how to make scenting your space safe for everyone—two- and four-legged alike.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are natural compounds found in the bark, leaves, flower petals, and other parts of plants. These highly concentrated substances possess a unique aroma that has been used for centuries for various purposes.
One of the most popular ways to use essential oils is by diffusing them into the air with a humidifier or oil burner. They may also be applied topically as ingredients in homemade massage oils or lotions.
Essential oils can be an excellent choice if you are searching for natural, aromatic ingredients to use as fragrances or to add to homemade hair care, skincare, and cleaning products.
Learn Which Oils Are Safe to Use with Pets
When choosing essential oils for a pet-friendly home, it's best to stick with those generally considered to be milder and more tolerable for animals. While individual sensitivities may still vary, the following oils are often used safely around pets, particularly when properly diluted and diffused in moderation:
- Lavender
- Chamomile (German and Roman)
- Frankincense
- Myrrh
- Cedarwood
- Ginger
- Carrot seed
- Rosemary
These pet-friendly essential oils are typically used to create a pleasant atmosphere and can be suitable when diffused in well-ventilated spaces. Still, it’s important to introduce them gradually and monitor your pet’s response.
Essential Oils to Avoid Around Pets
On the other hand, some essential oils are known to be toxic to pets and should be avoided entirely. Even small amounts of these oils, whether inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin, can cause distress and discomfort.
If you use any of these oils for personal purposes, make sure they’re kept securely away from areas your pet can access:
- Citrus oils (lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange)
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Thyme
- Tea tree (melaleuca)
- Pine
- Peppermint
- Wintergreen
- Eucalyptus
- Rose
- Jasmine
- Ylang-ylang
- Basil
- Anise
Always buy your oils from reputable sources that clearly label their products as pure and free from synthetic additives. Look for third-party testing or certifications where possible. And even with safe oils, always use caution, because what’s mild for us can still be too strong for a pet.
If you’re unsure about a particular oil, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before introducing it into your home. Keep in mind that even with oils typically labelled as “pet-safe,” every animal is different, and what works in one household might not be suitable in another.
ARE OIL DIFFUSERS SAFE FOR PETS?
Oil diffusers are a popular way to freshen up a room in your home, but it is vital to consider their potential impact on our cats and dogs. While oil diffusers generally don’t pose an undue risk to humans, they are not always safe for cats due to the differences in our metabolisms.
Certain essential oils used in these diffusers contain compounds that can be highly toxic when inhaled by pets. Additionally, cats groom themselves often, and if they ingest even small amounts of these essential oils in the form of micro drops on their fur, it can lead to serious health concerns.
Therefore, it is important to use caution when using oil diffusers around your pets and avoid using heavily scented varieties that contain potent oils. Always keep essential oils well out of reach of your cat and dog (which can be difficult if they enjoy exploring!), and be particularly careful if your cat already suffers from liver or respiratory problems.
Providing that you do your research and only choose essential oils safe for pets, you will ensure the safety and well-being of your beloved pet.
Which Essential Oils Are Safe for Cats?
If you are planning to use essential oils in a diffuser or any type of household cleaning product, always check with your vet before introducing new scents to your home. They will be able to provide you with professional advice about which essential oils are safe for cats.
Generally speaking, cedarwood, ginger, carrot seed, lavender, and rosemary essential oils will be safe to use around your cat, providing you do so in a safe manner.
One way you can improve the safety of essential oils is to ensure your diffuser is positioned in a well-ventilated room and your cat doesn’t spend too much time lying immediately next to it.
Which Essential Oils Are Safe for Dogs?
If you’ve never used a diffuser in your home before, be sure to speak to your vet before setting it up. They will be able to offer advice on which essential oils are safe to use based on the breed of your dog.
While cats lack certain enzymes that enable them to process essential oil compounds, the same cannot be said for dogs. However, that doesn’t mean all types of essential oils will be safe to use around your furry friend.
Many experts recommend cedarwood, rosemary, myrrh, lavender, and Frankincense essential oils as being safe to use around your dog.
As is the case with cats, keep essential oil bottles well out of reach and set up the diffuser in a well-ventilated space.
Use Essential Oils Safely Around Pets
Diffusing essential oils can be a safe way to enjoy their benefits in a pet-friendly home — but only if done mindfully:
- Start low and slow: Use just one drop in a diffuser, placed on an elevated surface in a well-ventilated room.
- Use intermittently: Run your diffuser in 30–60 minute intervals, giving time for breaks in between.
- Supervise and observe: Never leave the diffuser unattended. Watch for any unusual behaviour in your pet such as lethargy, drooling, or restlessness. If you notice anything concerning, stop use immediately and air out the room.
Even airborne oils can settle on your pet’s coat — if they lick themselves, they may ingest it. For this reason, keep sessions short and infrequent, especially if you're just starting out. Try a 5–10 minute test session to see how your pet reacts before extending the time.
If using essential oils for topical application (like in bathwater or skincare), always dilute with a carrier oil. Never apply essential oils undiluted to human or animal skin — they can cause irritation or other reactions.
Avoid using essential oils altogether if your pet has respiratory conditions, known sensitivities, or if you have birds, which are especially vulnerable. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing essential oils in such cases.
If making linen sprays or cleaning products with essential oils, dilute them well and only use them when pets are not in the room. Ensure surfaces are completely dry before allowing pets near them.
Lastly, always patch-test any homemade product with essential oils before applying it to your skin.
Pet-Proof Your Home
Just like you’d store cleaning products or medicines out of reach, the same care should be taken with essential oils. Even a small amount can be harmful if your pet gets curious and knocks over a bottle or manages to chew through the cap.
Always seal the bottles tightly after use and store them in a cupboard or drawer your pet can’t access. If you’ve got a particularly curious pet who likes to poke around, consider adding childproof latches or locks to your storage area for extra security.
If you use essential oils as part of your skincare or wellness routine, remember to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your pet. Avoid letting them lick your skin after application, especially if you're using products containing essential oils on your hands, arms, or legs.
It’s also wise to be prepared in case of an emergency. Keep the contact details of your local vet and the Animal Poisons Centre handy. In Australia, you can contact the Australian Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 if you suspect your pet may have come into contact with a toxic substance.
Shop for Cat and Dog Safe Essential Oils at N-Essentials
aving pets doesn’t mean giving up your essential oil routine altogether; it just means making a few simple adjustments. By choosing pet-friendly oils, using them responsibly, and staying alert to how your pets respond, you can maintain a safe and comforting home environment for everyone.
A little knowledge goes a long way in making sure both you and your furry family members can coexist peacefully, with all the comforts you both deserve.
Please note that the advice provided in this blog is of a general nature. If you are planning to introduce a diffuser into your home, be sure to speak to your veterinarian first to confirm which essential oils for pets are safe.
N-Essentials has a comprehensive range of essential oils, carrier oils, and raw materials available for a wide variety of uses. Learn more about our products by visiting our blog or contacting our team today with any questions you may have.
