I often get asked about whether or not essential oils can be used around pets. The simple answer is, yes. However, just like us, animals react differently to them based on species, size and what their bodies will tolerate. I am not a veterinarian, or a certified aromatherapist (yet), but I do have some tips to help you introduce essential oils into your pets surroundings safely.

The first thing to keep in mind is to go small and slow. What I mean is, use small amounts at a slow introduction pace. Essential oils are very powerful and animals are very keen to smell. In fact, the best way to introduce an oil is to put it on yourself and hang out around your pet to see if they mind the aroma. After your pet is acclimated then you can start applying oils topically to him/her. Make sure you pay attention to your pets’ body language and behavior after introducing an oil. Most times, an aversion to essential oils will happen pretty quick. Don’t be nervous about using oils with your pets, once they have been introduced properly and are used to them, animals can respond quite well to them!

Always have a carrier oil on hand when applying topically to your pet. Dilution will be key as animals are more sensitive to oils than we are. Please be cautious around the eyes as to not get any oils in them, just as you would for your self.

Size does matter…when it comes to using essential oils and the size of your pet. If you have a large dog you may not need to dilute the oils very much, if at all, like you would for a smaller dog. You want to dilute topical applications at least 80-90% for smaller animals.  For example, for every 1 drop of essential oil, use 4-5 drops of a carrier oil.

Areas of essential oil application include the paws for cats and dogs specifically, and the spine and flanks for hoofed animals. To apply, simple rub oils onto your hands and stroke the animals fur. For larger areas, combine oils with a carrier oil for easy application.

Here is a short list of essential oils to not use on your pet!

• Cinnamon
• Citrus (d-limonene)
• Pine
• Sweet birch
• Tea tree (melaleuca)
• Ylang ylang
• Anise
• Clove
• Thyme
• Juniper
• Yarrow
• Garlic
• Wintergreen
• Pennyroyal
• Eucalyptus
• Oregano

• If diffusing, always allow cats access to areas where they can avoid the diffused oil.
• With all animals, avoid using high-phenol oils—such as Oregano, Wintergreen, Clove, Mountain Savory, and Thyme. This is especially important with cats.
• Use special caution with cats and essential oils. Avoid applying citrus oils topically, diffusing the scent around cats, and having your cat ingest them.

Young Living has a wonderful line of products called AnimalScents, and some of the best oils to use on your pet are included in the Young Living Premium Starter Kit.

Follow the link to see how you can start incorporating essential oils into your pets lives.  https://www.myyl.com/domesticatedoils

Hope you find the beauty in using essential oils with your pets!

Elizabeth