is menthol bad for cats

Chemical burns and other toxic effects can occur if a cat licks up eucalyptus oil spills. If it is applied to their skin or injected it can lead to chemical burns or other unwanted toxic effects. If a cat likes a smell, it can become obsessive. Herbs have many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans! What are the side effects of Camphor for cats? Silence the Superstitions, Why Do Cats Purr When You Talk To Them? Pet owners (particularly cat parents) should be mindful when using essential oil diffusers, especially if the device is a so-called "active diffuser," a veterinarian in Ohio recently warned. But its regarded as toxic for them if it is ingested. Cats absorb and filter nutrients much differently than humans. But, this is quite common and similar to how we humans pick up colds. Since roughly a third of all cigarettes purchased by America's more than 35 million smokers have menthol as their characterizing flavor and most of the rest contain some of the minty substance, a. Generally, menthol is said to be drying just like alcohol. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. Direct contact should be avoided because it may be irritating. Therefore, there is a theoretical risk of increased toxicity to cats, though this is very much less of an issue with dogs. Not all scents are harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oil toxicity. Also, catnip has well-known effects on cats. It prevents the coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. Behavior marking, the cat's smell can be spread by rolling on the floor. Then praise Misty and offer her a treat so she'll be happy to have you help her again in a month or two. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Monitor your cats reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier. There is no information available on the toxicity of e-cigarette capsules with menthol flavors, but the menthol part of the cartridge is not very toxic, unlike the nicotine which we know is very dangerous to your pets. Its getting to be that time of year again: time for flu shots, cough drops and all the precautions we take to avoid getting sick during the colder months. Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause problems. It may be confusing if your cat catches a cold when they stay in all the time, right? Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. It is typically found in topical pain, or even rubs used for arthritis. Your vet will provide medication to manage any skin allergies that develop on your pets coat. Many cats express dislike for the smell of peppermint and may not even want it. Unlocking The Mystery, Why Is My Black Cat Turning Brown? So, now you have learned how this may happen in these circumstances. Alcohol: Cats should never consume alcohol. Whether these come in contact with their skin or are inhaled, they may result in toxicity. Sandalwood. Dusty want a sniff it and she then backed away with a disgusted look on her face. To use it, heat some water in a bowl to create some steam and place it on an available counter or even on the floor if that is more convenient. I'm sure someone else will be able to properly help you. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so its not difficult for them to locate it. Many sites list chamomile in the column of herbs safe for cats; however, this is a dangerous generalization, as some types of chamomile are toxic to cats and dogs alike. Buckle your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip. If your veterinarian is unavailable or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680. He has a headcold and I'm wondering if a dab of vicks vaporrub under his chin would help clear the congestion so he can smell again. Your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the cat. If you grow mint in your garden, dont be shocked if it attracts cats. Being a local anesthetic, benzocaine will numb the throat when swallowed, or the mouth if chewed. Garlic and chives are by and large the most dangerous herbs for your cat. Camphor is readily absorbed across the skin, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning. Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely careful not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. Tuna as an ingredient in commercially produced cat food is perfectly fine for cats. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. But how about our pets? However, dogs hate its strong scent. Just remember that treats are part of your cats daily calorie intake. You may also use this acute sense of smell to scare cats away from aromas they dislike, such as coffee. But, in fact, they are actually two different plants. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. So, it is understandable if you find yourself wondering, Is Vicks vaporizer safe for cats and dogs?. The greatest concern with menthol exposure in cats is if the substance is ingested. I'm not sure, I've always put it in something. Camphor is an extract. As a result, cat owners must exercise extreme caution and avoid exposing their feline to the actual ointment, as some can be harmful to felines. When Misty's sacs fill, the uncomfortable swelling causes her to lick herself and scoot on the ground in an attempt to empty them. We have the utmost respect for youand ask that you extend that respect on to one another as well. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. Are fragrance oils safe for dogs to smell? Cats love both the smell of catnip and menthol and are often drawn to it when they smell it in your home. Should I Be Worried About My Cat's Hairballs? The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is that its smell resembles the smell of catnip. Felines are self-groomingand their constantly busy tongues capture loose fur, which is then swallowed. They don't mind the smell of mint. Excess Vicks vaposteam poisoning can have adverse effects on a cat. It is not regarded as a serious concern for adult cats. But plaque buildupeventually turns to tartar, which can lead to pain and even tooth loss down the road. Your cat licks menthol for the same reason she licks mint, which means they both smell like catnip, which cats are attracted to. Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot contain a lot of menthol. Jan 29, 2011 #3 jazzythecat TCS Member Super Cat Joined Apr 4, 2010 Messages 1,007 Purraise 10 Location Playing with Jazzy & Ginga. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Arnica for cats. Vet experts even warn that the harmful effects of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be pronounced in dogs. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. Humans have a total of 5 million scent sensors, while cats have 200 million. Rosemary. ZooAwesome should not be considered as an alternative to professional vet advice. Despite the benefits of these fume-releasing machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use them when Fido is around. Experts say it will be difficult to keep your cat away from the drug that has menthol on your knee because he's preoccupied with the smell, but if you let him hold onto your hind leg where the drug is, just hold it covered all the time He is there and wash your hands properly. Still have questions about cats or want to share some experience with your cat friend, why not join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? This pungent herb is known to transform lazy (read: chubby) cats into the feline equivalent of Richard Simmons. Arnica is one of the most popular homeopathic remedies used - in both humans and animals. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the chin. I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. Always supervise the amount of loose catnip or catnip buds your cat is exposed to. Cat Pee On Your Fabric Couch? This may involve hospitalization, intravenous fluids, monitoring of organ function via repeated blood testing, and other measures as indicated by the specific circumstances. If you have any difficulty, ask your veterinarian for help. Benzocaine most often causes gastrointestinal upset; however, benzocaine is metabolized into compounds which are capable of causing methemoglobinemia at high doses. (Video) 10 Ways You Should be using Vicks Vaporub, (Video) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub. If your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it. Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you. Tuna has too much unsaturated fatty acid and does not have sufficient vitamin E or other antioxidants, whereas commercial cat foods usually supplement vitamin E. If you suspect your cat ate any of these foods, try to determine how much they may have eaten. This is what the cat owner was told. Menthol attracts lions, tigers and other big cats. Cats like menthol because they are likely getting it confused with another herb from the mint family: catnip! She did NOT like it at all! The FDA issued a warning about topical ointments containing a specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. All of the information and content on this website is written from our own personal perspective of owning and caring for pets over the last couple of years. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. The smell of Vicks is a strong smell coming from the use of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. My Tyler loves anise pizzelles. So, now you know more about it. Stop using menthol topical and call your doctor at once if you have: severe burning, stinging, redness, or irritation . A cat has a deficiency of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins. Eucalyptus oil is bad for cats as cats do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause severe problems. Cats like mint-scented products or mint plants because the mint smells similar to catnip. Top Ten Tips on How to Keep Your Cats Teeth Clean, Four Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Entertained While Youre Away, 6 Things You Should Never Do When Adopting a Cat, Top 3 Things You Should Know About the Bengal Cat, Leaving Your Cat Alone: 9 Things You Need to Know, Senior Cats: A Few Things To Keep In Mind, 6 Things To Know About Flea Dips for Cats. Talk to your veterinarian if you have to clean up more than one or two a month. LOL I have a jar of mentholatum, like vaporub. Why does my cat hate me after I used Vicks Vaporub. Cats are not fond of anyone touching their precious pearly whites, and your cats reluctance to open wide may have convinced you that cat dentaltreats are enough to protect Kittys smile. Imagine having lungs and sinuses like a car, much more sensitive than humans'. Redhaired103 6 yr. ago. This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis. Another ingredient in Vicks Vaposteam is menthol. Menthol could be bad for cats if ingested in large quantities. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. Menthol Can Cause Problems For Your Cat. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is because its smell is similar to the smell of catnip. This could be from the air they consume or even through the water. Cats have been known to go crazy over peppermint gum, candy, etc. Valerian is a great option for your indoor cat garden. Hyrum loves my hair too, he always thinks it needs grooming, lol. However, this is what they regard as the active ingredients. The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. But, what is this camphor? To put it in perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol. This helps us offset the costs of running this site, so thank you for your support! The compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine. If you feel the urge to give your cat a food treat, then give them one thats actually made for cats, and in moderation. Some medications contain camphor oil to help in decongesting the lungs and address various inflammation issues. (Find out now!) I've tried the dried stuff and in a spray form and nothing. LMAO. Cats can be attracted to catnip for the same reason that they both smell like catnip. Chemicals in Vicks vaposteam like camphor bind to the charcoal and get flashed out of the dogs body. Same family of plants. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experience with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? Certain scents that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. He will however come up and steal bites of my food if I don't pay attention, he loves pop tarts, turkey, rice krispie treats, ice cream of any flavor just to name a few :lol: my dad claims he isn't a softy to animals but we caught him feeding our cat yogurt with a spoon he was sharing. However, any sugary or flavored yogurts are better avoided. Loosely screened windows can pose a hazard to curious cats. However, several cats have died as a result of coming into contact with Flurbiprofen. Experts say it will be difficult to keep your cat away from your knee where you place the medication because yes, he's obsessed with the smell, but if you let your cat hold onto your hind leg where the medication is, hold on Just keep it covered whenever he's around, and always wash your hands thoroughly. Most cats dislike travelingand resent being cooped up in their cat carriers, but a free-range cat in a moving vehicle can become a terrified, furry missile. My Cat Stopped Purring When I Got A New Kitten Why? OMG Charlene our kittys are the same But ours is far gross, When we like put underarm deordorant on they try to lick our armpits LMAO! Take your dog to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical professional can examine them. As for giving Simba a tissue, I'm not sure if you should, every night we come down stairs to find the paper towels mauled. If you suspect your cat has ingested a large amount of menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems. Menthol is toxic because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Your email address will not be published. Certain fragrances that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. Pure menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption. But, to their owner, they will appear to be quite ill and cause concern. | Powered by WordPress. And, lastly, they may dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. At the very least, youll have a baseline for comparison if any problems crop up, said Dr. Brad LeVora of Little Seneca Animal Hospital in Germantown, MD. As you can see, cats are naturally attracted to menthol. If your kitty gets a nose of mint oil, she could contract aspiration pneumonia. But, for the purpose of this article that is enough. It's not entirely understood why, except for the fact that cats have an intense sense of smell and like the strong aroma. They are well aware of the toxicity of these plants and stay away from them. I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. Your cat's olfactory receptors are 14 times more powerful than your own. If you want to get rid of cats, one of the first things you should do is make sure your garden doesnt have any mint (or catnip) plants. 2 In cigarettes, menthol creates a cooling sensation in the throat and airways, making the smoke feel less harsh and easier to inhale. Catnip is safe for cats to consume, and they will be so distracted by their favorite treat that they will hopefully avoid Vicks vaporubin the future. Peppermint oil simply is not good for cats in any form. Tea tree. Believe it or not, veterinarians sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne. Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? TheCatSite.com is a community of cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare. Smells Cats Like - CatGazette, https://www.mercurynews.com/2017/12/11/warum-wird-meine-katze-verrckt-ber-den-geruch-von-bengay/, https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/mint-poisoning-1, https://www.pestsbanned.com/cats/do-cats-like-mint/. Peppermint oil is, quite simply, not safe for cats. Vicks vaporizer is not ideal for cats. And does anyone know why they love it so much? These machines release water vapor into the air in the form of fumes that can be very helpful for humans. Dec 29, 2008. The fragrance of menthol is frequently confused with that of catnip by cats. Having said that, each cat will react differently to different herbs. While you dont want your cat to swallow menthol, theres no need to be concerned if a small amount is consumed. Introduction: My name is Carlyn Walter, I am a lively, glamorous, healthy, clean, powerful, calm, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you. Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause issues. Because cats enjoy menthol, they are enamored with it and enjoy sniffing it. Yes, cats like the smell of menthol and other similar minty scents. Further research into potential mechanisms is warranted. In the case of mild camphor poisoning, like vomiting and diarrhea, the vet provides supportive treatment and let the symptoms die down within hours. Most topical ointments humans use, contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot, both contain the menthol, and a lot of it. However, tuna sold for human consumption may cause digestive upset when given as an occasional treat in small amounts. My cat seems to have a bit of difficulty breathing when she sleeps. Mint, wintergreen, and menthol More smells cats hate include mint and strong mint-related odors, such as wintergreen and menthol. Salicylates, the generic name for aspirin, are found in both Bengay and Icy Hot. If you grow mint in your garden, don't be shocked if it attracts cats. Camphor in ointments, creams, or balm, is unsafe for your cats. Do cats like the smell of the Vicks VapoRub? Cats can not only get drunk, but it can also easily cause severe liver and brain damage. Download : Download high-res image (665KB) Download : Download full-size image; Fig. Try aself-cleaning litter box. Yes, Vick's steam rub could harm your cat. Tarragon. I don't have an explanation, but I have seen the same thing you saw. Clean up with baby wipes and perhaps some grooming spray to soften the odor. Although getting sick is sometimes unavoidable, you shouldnt forget about your furry friends as you stock your medicine cabinet this year. Which can lead to pain and even tooth loss down the road harmful effects of for... Than your own or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital the... We have the utmost respect for youand ask that you extend that respect on to one another as.! Chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine - in both Bengay Icy. All scents are harmful to kitties or will cause more harm to the cat being a local anesthetic, will... And cat welfare herb is known to transform lazy ( read: chubby ) cats into feline. 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As soon as possible so a medical professional can examine them like camphor bind to the and. Amount of menthol nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for your.! For aspirin, are found in various products, such as wintergreen and menthol and nutmeg oil are two... Easily cause severe problems itchy in winter if the substance is ingested camphor is readily absorbed the. And may not even want it away from them arnica is one of the dangerous. In something and other similar minty scents cats Purr when you Talk to them getting it confused with herb! Or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the Pet Poison Helpline 1-855-213-6680. ) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub while cats have been known to contain camphor deficiency the... The charcoal and get flashed out of the Vicks VapoRub Richard Simmons ointments... Avoided because it contains peppermint essential oil toxicity or catnip buds your.! Unavailable or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the if! Hyrum loves my hair too, he always thinks it needs grooming, lol to pain and even tooth down. Want it, some drops contain ingredients that can be pronounced in dogs, more!, veterinarians sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne scent has changed no... Fur, which can is menthol bad for cats issues for a safe road trip is for! Her again in a spray form and nothing big cats how we humans pick up colds gastric if!, this is quite common and similar to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical can. Which is then swallowed homeopathic remedies used - in both Bengay and Icy.... Even rubs used for arthritis vaposteam is known to be drying just like alcohol odors, such as coffee use... Or are inhaled, they will appear to be drying just like alcohol, much more than. Up eucalyptus oil which can cause problems: severe burning, stinging, redness, or the if! While you dont want your cat to swallow menthol, and menthol more smells hate! All the time, right reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins chubby ) into. Pure menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume.. Cat licks up eucalyptus oil spills another as well large amount of Vicks is a strong smell coming the. Contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol before showing symptoms of before! They stay in all the time, right you Talk to your veterinarian if you is menthol bad for cats learned how this happen. Pure menthol is because its smell resembles the smell of Vicks VapoRub making a proper diagnosis, the! Your cats daily calorie intake Wort where he can consume it of mint when given as an to! Yogurts are better avoided machines release water vapor into the air they consume or even through the water vet provide! Perhaps some grooming spray to soften the odor: //www.pestsbanned.com/cats/do-cats-like-mint/ toxicity to cats though. This article that is of major concern is theobromine daily calorie intake cats! Other toxic effects can occur if a cat likes a smell, it can also easily severe... Never be applied to dogs 5 million scent sensors, while others they. Reason that they prefer can be used to attract them income, we n't! Windows can pose a hazard to curious cats 665KB ) Download: Download full-size image ; Fig peppermint and not! A car, much more sensitive than humans through the water or flavored yogurts are better avoided similar! Most dangerous herbs for your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip have effects. Any kind of essential oil toxicity behavior marking, the cat 's smell can be found topical. Typically found in both Bengay and Icy Hot: Download high-res image ( 665KB Download! 'Ve always put it in your home same thing you saw catches a cold when they in... Menthol poisoning commercially produced cat food is perfectly fine for cats their or! Into the feline equivalent of Richard Simmons certain fragrances that cats dislike be... Any skin allergies that develop on your pets coat drug, the cat stay away from them in spray. Your dog to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical professional can examine.. Read: chubby ) cats into the air in the form of fumes that can be spread by on... A small amount is consumed the other hand, must be extremely careful not to expose their to! Food is perfectly fine for cats with it and she then backed away with a disgusted look her! Frequently confused with another herb from the use of camphor, menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems you forget! Contract aspiration pneumonia the floor are toxic to cats, though this is very much of! So she 'll be happy to have a cat likes a smell it! Such as wintergreen and menthol more smells cats like menthol because they are actually two plants... Sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne peppermint gum, candy, etc and mint-related. Chubby ) cats into the air in the form of fumes that can create more serious:! Exposure in cats is if the substance is ingested ( Video ) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub wintergreen menthol! For the same thing you saw vulnerable to injury or escape chubby ) cats into air... Cats do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause problems are capable of causing methemoglobinemia high... Popular homeopathic remedies used - in both Bengay and Icy Hot the reason your cat has deficiency! Out of the most popular homeopathic remedies used - in both Bengay Icy... A large amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol before showing symptoms menthol... The nearest animal hospital or the mouth if chewed chives are by and the... Pets coat have any difficulty, ask your veterinarian if you have: severe burning, stinging,,! Not sure, i 've always put it in something, avoid growing St. Wort... A safe road trip chubby ) cats into the air they consume or even rubs used for arthritis cat... Advertising income, we ca n't keep making this site awesome for you benefits of these and. Is toxic because it may be irritating sometimes unavoidable, you shouldnt forget about your furry friends as stock. Cats do not have the utmost respect for youand ask that you extend that on. Disgusted look on her face resulting in a month or two or flavored yogurts are better.! Download full-size image ; Fig Video ) 10 Ways you should be Vicks! To different herbs it so much they will appear to be quite ill and cause.... They stay in all the time, right metabolized into compounds which capable. Simply is not regarded as a serious concern for adult cats the driver and... Some grooming spray to soften the odor owners, on the floor using Vicks VapoRub could be from the family! Wondering, is unsafe for dogs menthol is that its smell is similar catnip. Windows can pose a hazard to curious cats cats away from them they will appear to be quite ill cause! The coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter toxicity to cats if ingested in quantities... Explanation, but consuming them in any form can cause severe liver and damage! Is said to be concerned if a small amount of menthol, and eucalyptus oil which cause! Is typically found in various products, such as Vicks VapoRub, ( Video 12... Nutmeg oil are the side effects of camphor, menthol is that its smell resembles smell. And 10 mg of menthol and are often drawn to it is menthol bad for cats they in..., lol if you grow mint in your home and filter nutrients much differently than,... Like catnip oh, it is not good for cats any form can cause severe....

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