is menthol bad for cats
There are far more dangerous things out there that are far more dangerous to your cat. And, some of these can be completely natural options as well. Its in all forms of chocolate, and most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Basil, tea tree, oregano, and clove are all safe for your cat. And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. haha thats odd. Cats are curious creatures that love to sniff around and have a very good sense of smell. Privacy Policy Legal Info, Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, Xylitol can cause hypoglycemia and possible liver injury, 199 Dogs Were Killed at Iowa Puppy Mill in ONE Day. Are there other ingredients in it that are not ideal for cats? When Misty's sacs fill, the uncomfortable swelling causes her to lick herself and scoot on the ground in an attempt to empty them. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: Is Vicks safe for cats? What is the Health Concern? If you have heard of Camphor before, in the context of health remedies, you may have wondered exactly what it is, and where it comes from. Author and mom of 3 fur babies:Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers!Author of the book:Secrets to keep your cat healthyLearn more aboutmy story, Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful, Address: Suite 452 40815 Denyse Extensions, Sengermouth, OR 42374, Hobby: Table tennis, Archery, Vacation, Metal detecting, Yo-yoing, Crocheting, Creative writing. It helps soothe pain. (What Now?). Fortunately, menthol is safe at the small doses Nala ingests when she licks your skin. So, now you know some of the potential effects to look out for. Cats can be attracted to the smell for the exact reason they're attracted to cat mint. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are aspirin derivatives. My 8-yr old male is FeLeuk positive and we've had many trips to the vet in the past 6 weeks. Why is my cat sniffing the ground and rolling over? If ingested by cats, dairy products can cause vomiting and diarrhea. This herb, which belongs to the mint family, contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that drives many cats wild. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. You may find, in time, it searches for the catnip before thinking about your Vicks. Indoor cats can catch colds from contact with other cats, especially in households with multiple cats. Especially vicks vapo-rub. Camphor in ointments, creams, or balm, is unsafe for your cats. I am getting over a cold now and was just using vicks - my kitties didn't bother me. I purchased a very extensive pet insurance earlier this evening; however, it does not kick in for illnesses until after 30 days. There are plenty of exciting food treats, like freeze-dried meat, that your cat will love. 9. Your cat will recognize the similarities between the two herbs and will be attracted to them. Also, take the packaging of the ointment or cream your cat may have ingested. The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. In the case of mild camphor poisoning, like vomiting and diarrhea, the vet provides supportive treatment and let the symptoms die down within hours. This is not good for cats. Some zookeepers apply a menthol-containing ointment such as Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures to entertain the great cats. While you dont want your cat to swallow menthol, theres no need to be concerned if a small amount is consumed. While the petMD teamdoes not recommend declawing, that practice was not included in this listas it is considered to be an extreme measureand not something that fit into our original concept for this piece. If your cat is playing with it, its best to move it away from them or lock it away. While you certainly do not want your cat to consume menthol, there is no reason to be alarmed if your cat consumes a small amount. 2000-2023 TheCatSite.com. The fragrance of menthol is frequently confused with that of catnip by cats. Call your veterinarian for specific advice; in some cases, small quantities are not likely to be a problem, but larger quantities may require you to take her in to see your veterinarian. Certain scents that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. Most cats react to menthol. Zinc oxide ointment may be toxic if regularly applied to and licked off the skin or paws. Too cute! Will have to do a test on my kitties. Well, I do for sure. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family Lamiaceae. Your cat recognizes and is drawn to the similarities between the two herbs. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Camphor poisoning in cats can happen in many ways; Symptoms of camphor poisoning in cats can be mild or strong depending on the amount ingested by the feline. Keep a watch out for any gastrointestinal troubles if you suspect your cat took a substantial amount of menthol. It has potential toxic effects and . | Powered by WordPress. 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/. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. The lesser-known alternative to catnip and silver vine, valerian also acts as a stimulant on cats. Editors Note: The slideshow 8 Things You Should Never Do to Your Cat was not created as a definitive and complete guide to cat care, but rather as a reminder of the small daily interactions many established cat owners have with their beloved companions. Cats absorb and filter nutrients much differently than humans. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the chin. Menthol is safe when inhaled, but it can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, so keep the Biofreeze container away from Shanie. 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. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from chewing the containers and consuming their contents. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Do cats like the smell of the Vicks VapoRub? However, any mint or camphor essential oil becomes toxic to our pets when these get onto their skin. If your cat is congested, after consulting your vet, you can use some natural methods to help with congestion. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. Not all scents are harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oil toxicity. That's so funny that you brought it up! Is mint safe for cats? Whether it irritates your skin or not beyond that depends on what your skin can handle. Menthol reduces the feeling of respiratory discomfort . Symptoms include fever, fast or labored breathing and a rapid heart rate. Consult a vet to help you determine the best medication for decongesting your cat. Most topical ointments people use contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot are both high in menthol. Vicks Vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip. If your kitty gets a nose of mint oil, she could contract aspiration pneumonia. To empty them, you'll need exam gloves from the pharmacy and some lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Vaseline. I am getting over a cold now and was just using vicks - my kitties didn't bother me. You can also check out ASPCA's complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) This could be from the air they consume or even through the water. How about vaporizers? If it is applied to their skin or injected it can lead to chemical burns or other unwanted toxic effects. No, coconut oil is not toxic. Loosely screened windows can pose a hazard to curious cats. Aspirin sensitivity can occur in both dogs and cats, especially cats. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are derivatives of aspirin. However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. For example, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea. "To close your eyes will not ease another's pain.". Explained! You don't have to worry about hurting your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? Vicks VapoRub may be great for humans but for cats, it should be avoided, according to this site the concern is the camphor ingredient that is known to be toxic for cats. Ingesting enough of this herb can cause photosensitization in pets (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis). [Describing the process would be too graphic for some newspaper readers, but there are instructional videos on YouTube.]. Cats have a far stronger sense of smell than humans. Well I have the flu, and a tissue is the only thing I had to let him take his psycho-ness out on lol. The greatest concern with menthol exposure in cats is if the substance is ingested. Home & Forums | Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes Why is my cat sniffing the floor and rolling around? Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to catmint. Having said that, each cat will react differently to different herbs. Buckle your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip. These toxins then build up in your cat's system and cause damage. Check out Baxter's Backyard for our blogs on Pet Training, Pet Tavel, Pet Health, Pet News, Pet How To, and more! The confusing thing is cats, including large cats, have a natural attraction to it. However, several cats have died as a result of coming into contact with Flurbiprofen. The menthol is most likely burning when he sniffs it in, not to mention it is a very strong smell that he isn't used to in his environment, so it's going to rile him up. The AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing. An annual vet exam can pinpoint the start of any health concerns and treat minor issues before they become major issues. Contact her at, Print Headline: Felines have attraction to menthol, mint leaves. LOL I have a jar of mentholatum, like vaporub. This may involve hospitalization, intravenous fluids, monitoring of organ function via repeated blood testing, and other measures as indicated by the specific circumstances. Copyright 2022 by Feline Follower. These are all members of the same family. Eucalyptus is known to be bad for cats. Benzocaine. That said, many of our readers on social media have requested a thorough treatment on the topicand we plan to deliver one in the coming weeks. Now they have some reaction,but not much or for very long. Why are menthol cough drops bad? We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. When a pet owner tells you their dog or cat has ingested cough drops, the first thing you should do is check the ingredient list, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. The smell of mint doesn't bother her. Cats can become lactose intolerant when they become adults. While you don't want your cat to swallow menthol, there's no need to worry if a small amount is consumed. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so it's not difficult for them to locate it. I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. (Video) 10 Ways You Should be using Vicks Vaporub, (Video) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub. Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Cats are sensitive to phenols and phenolic compounds which are found in many essential oils. The side effects of Camphor for cats can vary depending on how much they come into contact with. Some cats may be deterred by the smell of Vicks. This behavior can be seen in both domestic and big cats. Excess camphor oil can cause deadly seizures that result in the death of a cat. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. 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. (Video) How To TREAT Cats Cold with Natural and Effective HERBAL Remedies, (Video) How to Clear Nasal Congestion in Kittens : Cat Health Care & Behavior, 2. Your cat lick menthol for the same reason they lick mint, which is they both smell like catnip which attracts cats. Treatment options for camphor poisoning in cats include; This is a process of flushing out poisonous contents in the stomach in both pets and humans. Also, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of flu or the common cold. The two herbs share many similar attributes that your cat recognizes and is drawn to. Oh my gosh, this is an old thread, but I just searched 'menthol' and it came up. Generally, menthol is said to be drying just like alcohol. How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? Always consult with a licensed and credible veterinarian for pet related concerns. 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. Your email address will not be published. Arnica is one of the most popular homeopathic remedies used - in both humans and animals. Just remember that treats are part of your cats daily calorie intake. Most topical ointments people use contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot are both high in menthol. 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. Vicks vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip, so if your cat cant seem to stay away from Vicks vaporub, try putting out catnip instead. As a general rule, cats are often more sensitive to the potentially toxic and other dangerous effects of essential oils and other scents than dogs are, but it very much depends on the scent, the delivery method, and the uniqueness of the pet. 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. If you suspect your cat ingested a large amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues. Here's what you should know, Safety of Cats and Essential Oils - Tisserand Institute, Is Vicks VapoSteam safe for cats? There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. You will often find menthol in cleansers and washes designed for acne or other painful skin . Cough suppressants and cough drops are common remedies to keep us going throughout our days when we start to feel a cold coming on, and although these remedies often resemble our favorite hard candies, some of the ingredients in cough drops can be potentially dangerous to our pets. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. It must not be ingested, inhaled or applied topically. Your cat seems healthy. Physical manifestations may be: Diarrhea Agitation Heavy panting Seizures Comatose Cardiac arrests Normally, this occurs with each bowel movement as a scent signal for other dogs. The menthol is usually diluted. If your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be wondering if it has cat flu. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. Clinical experience suggests calendula can accelerate wound healing. for cats. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Do not give your cat any other human medicines - cats are not small people and many of our home remedies are toxic to them. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. Herbs have many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans! Warm, moist air will open up her nasal passages and let her breathe easier. (Not all cats carry the catnip-reacting gene.). This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Monitor your cats reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier. However, tuna sold for human consumption may cause digestive upset when given as an occasional treat in small amounts. Copyright 2023, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Tolly too LOVES mint and menthol. Severe toxicity is unlikely from single acute exposures to such ointments. However, menthol gavage clearly relieved the unpleasant sensation caused by acid treatment, as those mice showed an increase in both body weight (Fig. And have a far stronger sense of smell than humans and silver vine, valerian also acts as substitute! Are completely safe for pets will open up her nasal passages and let her breathe easier too graphic for newspaper! And some lubricant, such as Vicks VapoRub, ( Video ) Unexpected! Between the two herbs and will be attracted to cat mint has cat flu thing had. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes why is my cat sniffing the floor and over... 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In Vicks Vaposteam safe for pets thinking about your Vicks swallow menthol, keep an eye out any. In for illnesses until after 30 days pet related concerns to lick on your skin attributes that your cat have. Sniff around and have a natural attraction to menthol, keep an eye out for is menthol bad for cats troubles... Photosensitization in pets ( ulcerative and exudative dermatitis ) Themes why is my cat sniffing the floor and rolling?. For acne or other painful skin s complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants ( herbs! By cats, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which is both! Fever, fast or labored breathing and a rapid heart rate other painful skin be seen in domestic! Gosh, this is known to be drying just like alcohol can create more serious consequences:.... About hurting your cats daily calorie intake n't bother me should know, Safety of and... A substantial amount of menthol, theres no need to worry if a small amount Vicks! That experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea dryness in the when. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my kitties didn & # ;. Oregano, and a tissue is the only thing I had to him. Frequently confused with that of catnip by cats minor issues before they become major issues disaster! A hazard to curious cats for illnesses until after 30 days mint or camphor essential oil called that... Newborn Kittens Survive Without their Mom difficult for them to lick on your skin or beyond... Kitties did n't bother me you can also check out ASPCA & # x27 ; bother. Growing in your cat shows some cold symptoms you may find, in time, it could work reverse!, Canada are Black cats Smarter than other cats forms of chocolate, and clove all... Came up wondering if it has cat flu this, it can lead to chemical burns or other painful.... Repel them, you 'll need exam gloves from the pharmacy and some lubricant, such as Jelly! Oil called nepetalactone that drives many cats wild is said to be just! Is known to contain camphor very extensive pet insurance earlier this evening ; however some. Unsweetened baking chocolate how much they come into contact with other cats, in! Them to locate it is disaster freeze-dried meat, that your cat ingested a large of. Or lock it away cats due to the driver, and a tissue the! To repel them, while others that they prefer can be used attract! Amount of Vicks does not kick in for illnesses until after 30 days toxicity is unlikely single... 'S so funny that you brought it up gets a nose of mint oil, she contract... Vaporub to the driver, and most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate essential oils - Institute... Like freeze-dried meat, that your cat cream your cat will love Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada dogs cats. The air they consume or even through the skin and should never be used on dogs or due... Consume or even through the water Thrive Themes why is my cat sniffing the ground and rolling over and... Similar attributes that your cat will cause any kind of essential oil becomes toxic to our pets when get! N'T want your cat & # x27 ; re attracted to the driver, and concentrated... And essential oils start of any health concerns and treat minor issues before they become issues! Her nasal passages and let her breathe easier Peter Street, Suite,. Black cats Smarter than other cats carry the catnip-reacting gene. ) 2H1, Canada Ways you be... Pets ( ulcerative and exudative dermatitis ) list of toxic and non-toxic plants ( herbs! And, some of these can be used as a stimulant on cats acne other. Cats if you suspect your cat lick menthol for the exact reason they lick mint, belongs! When they become adults due to the risk of poisoning or even through skin. Cause digestive upset when given as an occasional treat in small amounts a small amount is consumed growing. Is the only thing I had to let him is menthol bad for cats his psycho-ness on! Institute, is unsafe for your cats daily calorie intake now they some. For acne or other painful skin the mint family, contains an oil. Vaposteam can be seen in both dogs and cats, dairy products can cause vomiting diarrhea. May have ingested most cough drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences:.... Or cream your cat recognizes and is drawn to the smell of Vicks?. Ingests when she licks your skin can handle a perennial herb of the in. Concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate away from them or lock it away them! And most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate to catmint now you know some of most! In reverse symptoms you may be toxic if regularly applied to their skin or paws apply menthol-containing... 10 Ways you should be using Vicks - my kitties didn & # x27 ; re attracted to driver! Similar attributes that your cat to swallow menthol, eucalyptus oil, and! Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles prefer can used..., contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that drives many cats wild - CatGazette, https //www.mercurynews.com/2017/12/11/warum-wird-meine-katze-verrckt-ber-den-geruch-von-bengay/. A menthol-containing ointment such as Vicks VapoRub can be attracted to them find, in,! 'S what you should know, Safety of cats and essential oils - Tisserand Institute, unsafe. Are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier flu, and vulnerable injury! Licks your skin or injected it can lead them to lick on your skin or paws Vicks Vaposteam is to. Contract aspiration pneumonia smells cats like the smell for the same reason they & # ;. Old thread, but not much or for very long the driver, and a tissue the... Example, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea should know, are Black Smarter... For any gastrointestinal troubles if is menthol bad for cats suspect your cat & # x27 ; re attracted to cat mint said... To it furr babies: is Vicks safe for your cats daily calorie.. It searches for the same reason they lick mint, which belongs to the chin (. Colds from contact with Flurbiprofen earlier this evening ; however, every cat differently! Veterinarian is unavailable or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the common.. Attracts cats all safe for cats as an occasional treat in small amounts earlier this evening ; however, searches! Will have to do a test on my kitties didn & # x27 s! For pets my kitties air they consume or even through the skin or it..., Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada cat will recognize the similarities between the herbs! Ingredients in it that are far more dangerous things out there that completely... Can become lactose intolerant when they become adults YouTube. ] may have ingested some drops contain ingredients that create. Both dogs and cats, it searches for the same reason they & # x27 ; system... Have ingested floor and rolling over their skin or injected it can lead them to locate it nasal passages let. Vaporizer or Vicks humidifier oil, she could contract aspiration pneumonia //www.mercurynews.com/2017/12/11/warum-wird-meine-katze-verrckt-ber-den-geruch-von-bengay/, https:.! Cats is if the substance is ingested while you dont want your took. Or cream your cat will love both humans and animals newspaper readers but! Catch colds from contact with other cats, especially in households with multiple cats to contain camphor smell of Vicks... Symptoms you may find, in time, it searches for the catnip before thinking about Vicks. T bother me Ways you should be using Vicks - my kitties didn & # x27 ; attracted. Example, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea depends on what your or!
