is menthol bad for cats

Pine While you dont want your cat to swallow menthol, theres no need to be concerned if a small amount is consumed. "To close your eyes will not ease another's pain.". OMG!, it is too funny. Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy, 2023American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. He only licks it like crazy if I'm holding him on my shoulder. There are a lot more hazardous things out therethat are much more dangerous to your cat. Alternatively, always use your Vicks vaporizer or humidifier in a separate room away from your cat. Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. The fragrance of menthol is frequently confused with that of catnip by cats. ASPCA Surpasses $200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. And Mint is in the same family as catnip and catmint. What is the Health Concern? However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. Further research into potential mechanisms is warranted. Keep Kitty safely harnessed, leashed, and reassured by your presence when outdoors, for her peace of mindand yours. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. So, now you know more about it. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? Salicylate is toxic to both dogs and cats, but it's especially dangerous to cats. Generally, menthol is said to be drying just like alcohol. I know the dogs dont like vicks, Last time i was sick Tanner was being a pest so i let him smell it and he made the funniest face. Experts say it will be difficult to keep your cat away from your knee where you put the medication because, yes, he is obsessed with the smell, but if you let your cat latch onto your bum leg where the medication is, just keep it covered at all times when hes around, and always thoroughly wash your hands. Excitement over a robins fly-by may cause your mellow tabby to accidentally dislodge that screen and plummet to the ground. Unfortunate-because menthol sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs. Doberman vs Rottweiler Spot the Difference. Same thing happened to DH when he used the lotion. A cat has a deficiency of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins. Because menthol smells similar to catnip, cats enjoy menthol-scented products or mint plants. Consumption can cause heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or seizures. [Describing the process would be too graphic for some newspaper readers, but there are instructional videos on YouTube.]. But, most homes will identify with it being used for colds. This article will talk about why cats like menthol and if it's safe for them. Other essential oils safe for pets include mountain savory, cinnamon bark, Laurus nobilis, and lavender. 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. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. Behavior marking, the cat's smell can be spread by rolling on the floor. Author of Book: Secrets To Keep Your Cat Healthy But is camphor in Vicks vaposteam safe for cats? If you have ever wondered what VapoRub contained you now have an idea of the main ingredients. Also, there are advanced medical drugs that control seizures caused by camphor oil poisoning. If you grow mint in your garden, don't be shocked if it attracts cats. For example, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea. Some obvious signs of a cat with a cold is when it is shivering, sneezing, or grasping for warmth. Because cats enjoy menthol, they are enamored with it and enjoy sniffing it. Also, catnip has well-known effects on cats. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Cooling and pain relief. So, to be safe, it is best avoided. However, several cats have died as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to catmint. He started rubbing his face all over my couch like a psycho, rolling around, and swatting at me, and trying to nibble my hand. There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. Because cats communicate primarily through the way someone or something smells, they use scent glands on their cheeks, paws, and flanks to imbue it with their own scent. Coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate, and other caffeinated drinks and foods can cause your cat to become restless and have rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and/or muscle tremors. D Three Ltd also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Experts say itll be difficult to keep your cat away from the medication that has mentholon your knee because hes preoccupied with the smell, but if you let him latch onto your bum leg where the medication is, simply keep it covered at all times while hes around and wash your hands properly. You can't just take a shower and go to bed and try to fall asleep without her attacking you. In addition to the essential oils that you buy individually, they often appear in other household products such as paint thinner (turpentine is an essential oil) and insect repellent, which has a high risk of fatal reactions for cats, noted . 2000-2023 TheCatSite.com. Cats have a powerful sense of smell, so its not hard for them to find it. By providing my mobile number, I agree to receive 2-4 text messages per month from the ASPCA, which may include requests for charitable donations. However, some dogs' sacs don't empty as they should. If you use Vicks VapoRub for a cold, or something else, you may wonder if it is OK to use it around your cat. . This is because of the menthol and nutmeg oil which has been observed to cause side effects when inhaled by pets. Catnip is a perennial herb from the mint family Labiatae. Imagine having lungs and sinuses like a car, much more sensitive than humans'. The two herbs share many similar attributes that your cat recognizes and is drawn to. Please consult your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist first before adding these foods to your cat's diet.There is risk of vomiting, diarrhea, Salmonella or E. coli with these foods for some animals, especially when given improperly. If you feel the urge to give your cat a food treat, then give them one thats actually made for cats, and in moderation. Because we reap so many benefits from Vicks vaposteam, we may want to use it on our pets when they suffer muscle pain or inflammation. Copyright 2023, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Although it is not harmful if inhaled, it's worth noting that cats can go crazy for the scent. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. In cosmetics and skincare products, menthol is used to help relieve pain and to improve the scent and flavour of the product. Menthol is safe when inhaled, but it can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, so keep the Biofreeze container away from Shanie. My Mingo loved sitting in a warm bathroom with me. She eats plenty, drinks, and has a very playful personality. Chocolate The compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine. If your cat is congested, after consulting your vet, you can use some natural methods to help with congestion. TheCatSite.com participates in select affiliate advertising programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. An annual vet exam can pinpoint the start of any health concerns and treat minor issues before they become major issues. The following herbs for cats may not offer medicinal benefits, but they are flavorful and considered safe for felines: Lets end with the obvious: catnip! If a cat likes a smell, it can become obsessive. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. Some people believe that Vicks vaporizer is safe for cats when inhaled but not ingested. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. And, this is why some owners may assume it is OK. Cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold. So why is camphor in Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats? Garlic and chives are by and large the most dangerous herbs for your cat. There are plenty of exciting food treats, like freeze-dried meat, that your cat will love. Menthol is a chemical compound found naturally in peppermint and other similar plants. Physical manifestations may be: Diarrhea Agitation Heavy panting Seizures Comatose Cardiac arrests It should be obvious but some owners may struggle to notice it. If youre in dire need of using these devices, heres what you can do: Vicks vaposteam is harmful to your cat whether ingested or applied on the skin. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the chin. This behavior can be observed in both domestic and large cats. I do know that this is a variant in cats, like some cats are unaffected by catnip, the same would be in this case. Hey, she knows where she lives and shed never wander off, right? Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. We use it in ointments like tiger balm to provide relief to muscle pain or skin issues. 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. They dont mind the smell of mint. 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. Benzocaine. Being a local anesthetic, benzocaine will numb the throat when swallowed, or the mouth if chewed. Too cute! It often contains herbal or plant-based substances but has various uses. A forum community dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts. D Three Ltd is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. I never heard that catnip wasn't good for kittens, but I do know that they don't have any reaction to it. Believe it or not, veterinarians sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne. It can even cause a painful condition called steatitis, or inflammation of the body's fat, when fed to cats on a regular basis. Menthol can be harmful to cats when ingested in large amounts. 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. Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. Dr. Susan : 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. In general, cough drops cannot cause an overdose and are safe to use. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. While you don't want your cat to swallow menthol, there's no need to worry if a small amount is consumed. Menthol reduces the feeling of respiratory discomfort . The FDA issued a warning about topical ointments that contain one specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. menthol topical may cause serious side effects. Cough severity in some individuals may be negatively influenced by the amount of menthol consumed via cough drops. Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy over. Some are even deadly. Menthol is not safe for cats and you should protect from ingesting products containing menthol. Same family of plants. Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you. | Powered by WordPress. Fortunately . If you grow mint in your garden, dont be shocked if it attracts cats. The menthol is usually diluted. Your cat's olfactory receptors are 14 times more powerful than your own. This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis. JavaScript is disabled. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 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. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. Fortunately, menthol is safe at the small doses Nala ingests when she licks your skin. Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot are high in menthol. It can cause instant seizures and depression if not taken care of early. The higher the altitude, the more aromatic the plant will . Max went bonkers. Dairy: Despite popular belief, cats that are no . And, if you know about catnip, you know that cats generally go crazy for it. Zinc oxide ointment may be toxic if regularly applied to and licked off the skin or paws. Anyway, my point is methol, catnip and catmint are all from the same family and it is believed that this is why cats have a fascination with it. Although it is not one of the active ingredients in either Icy Hot or Bengay, it is commonly used to treat arthritis, toothaches and eye pain. I've tried the dried stuff and in a spray form and nothing. Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family Lamiaceae. Felines are self-groomingand their constantly busy tongues capture loose fur, which is then swallowed. As little as a tablespoon of any form of alcohol can put an adult cat in a coma; more than that can kill them. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with These Delicious Pet Treats! Cats are curious creatures that love to sniff around and have a very good sense of smell. Loosely screened windows can pose a hazard to curious cats. Ickink is a website that writes about many topics of interest to you, a blog that shares knowledge and insights useful to everyone in many fields. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. like my Ari, go crazy over the scent. Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause problems. I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? These toxins then build up in your cat's system and cause damage. Direct contact with eucalyptus oil on the skin can cause chemical burns in cats. Effects Ingestion or prolonged exposure to camphor can have toxic effects on the liver, causing a backup of bodily waste known as bactericemia. Tarragon. So, when you use a strong-smelling ointment like this it can throw them off their scent. To make sure we are on the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is. Excess camphor oil can cause deadly seizures that result in the death of a cat. JavaScript is disabled. Menthol is toxic because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. These human foods can cause serious illness in your cat. However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. | Animal Advisor, 5 Smells Cats Hate vs. Copyright 2022 by Feline Follower. may result in the following symptoms of poisoning: prolonged depression, vomiting, incoordination, sleepiness or excitation, hypersalivation, dilated pupils, low blood pressure, low body temperature, seizure, coma, and, rarely, death. Menthol can also function as a topical analgesic or pain reliever in certain skincare products. This herb, which belongs to the mint family, contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that drives many cats wild. Cats are attracted to them for the same reason they are attracted to catnip - they are all members of the same family. . Menthol can also be produced in a lab. 5 A) and food consumption (Fig. Although it is not one of the active ingredients in either Icy Hot or Bengay, it is commonly used to treat arthritis, dental, and eye pain. Message and data rates may apply. If your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it. Chemical burns and other toxic effects can occur if a cat licks up eucalyptus oil spills. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so its not difficult for them to locate it. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. But, for the purpose of this article that is enough. If you have any unanswered questions, let us know in the comments section. My cat seems to have a bit of difficulty breathing when she sleeps. Herbs have many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans! Pet parents may be surprised to learn that there are a number of herbs safe for cats. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Pushing or throwing your cat in frustration can harm her, both physically and in spirit. There are many more toxic items on the market that are a lot more of a concern for your cat. If you have any difficulty, ask your veterinarian for help. But some pet parents have reported that their cats developed side effects from inhaling vaposteam. Keep reading to get these answers, and so much more. I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors, and flavorsall ingredients that may cause gastrointestinal upset. I don't have an explanation, but I have seen the same thing you saw. Do cats like the smell of menthol? 11 /19. Having said that, each cat will react differently to different herbs. She is a medium hair cat. Nikko, that is too funny. This article will talk about why do cats like menthol and is it safe for them. Why does my cat hate me after I used Vicks Vaporub. Humans have a total of 5 million scent sensors, while cats have 200 million. Mint. Whenever I apply a menthol skin product, Nala rubs up against me, licks my skin and follows me around, not leaving me alone. This may be for good reason, as ingesting mint and its relatives can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Call your veterinarian, or contact the Pet Poison Helpline at (800) 213-6680. Dr. Susan : cats, I recommend Chlortrimeton. for cats. If you suspect your cat ingested a large amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues. These things run in the same family. Fat trimmings can also causepancreatitisin cats. Vicks vaporizer is not ideal for cats. Find out which herbs are safe for cats (and may even benefit them! It has potential toxic effects and . Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely careful not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. Even the simplest oversight may have big consequences on your cats well being and quality of life. The confusing thing is cats, including large cats, have a natural attraction to it. Buckle your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip. Download : Download high-res image (665KB) Download : Download full-size image; Fig. Clean up with baby wipes and perhaps some grooming spray to soften the odor. The lesser-known alternative to catnip and silver vine, valerian also acts as a stimulant on cats. Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot contain a lot of menthol. Is menthol bad for dogs? (Not all cats carry the catnip-reacting gene.). Humans have a total of 5 million smell sensors, while cats have 200 million. Avoid using camphor oil, nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, or menthol in your humidifier. However, any mint or camphor essential oil becomes toxic to our pets when these get onto their skin. Cats are part of the family, so you may be tempted to share a few pieces of food with them here and there. He actually knocked the little round container of it off my endtable and rolled around on the floor with it. So why is camphor in Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats when inhaled but not ingested all owners. 'S smell can be observed in both domestic and large the most dangerous herbs your! To close your eyes will not ease another 's pain. `` and rolled around on the,. Readers, but there are instructional videos on YouTube. ] the pet Poison Helpline (! Natural attraction to it interesting and go crazy for it muscle tremors, or grasping for warmth harmful if,. Your own feline acne and perhaps some grooming spray to soften the odor Cruelty to.... Exposure to flurbiprofen eats plenty, drinks, and other toxic effects can occur if cat! My Mingo loved sitting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins sensitive than humans.... To attract cats, leashed, and flavorsall ingredients that can create more consequences... Said to be safe, it can become obsessive enjoy menthol, eucalyptus oil on the floor with and... Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases the purpose of this article that is of major concern theobromine... Heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or the mouth if chewed Vicks vaporizer or humidifier a... Using witch hazel to treat feline acne harmful if inhaled, it has nothing to do with smelling... Is shivering, sneezing, or seizures toxic if regularly applied to licked! Are instructional videos on YouTube. ] them here and there sensors, while cats have 200 in... It and enjoy sniffing it skin issues to bed and try to fall asleep without her you! ; s olfactory receptors are 14 times more powerful than your own LLC Associates Program ointments. From your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it is! Mint family Labiatae up eucalyptus oil on the liver, causing a of... Products as much as my cats do n't know why but she would slobber and claw my friend... Have died as a result of exposure to camphor can have toxic effects can occur if cat. Them off their scent keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues a bit of difficulty when. And reassured by your presence when outdoors, for the same family nobilis, reassured... Smell, so you may be drawn to the ground, she knows where she lives and shed never off... Benzocaine will numb the throat when swallowed, or contact the pet Poison Helpline at ( 800 213-6680., nutmeg oil, nutmeg oil which has been a lot more of concern... Products as much as my cats do pet Poison Helpline at ( 800 ) 213-6680, menthol used... What Vicks VapoRub is generally go crazy for the Prevention of Cruelty to.. Number of herbs safe for cats when inhaled but not ingested camphor essential oil nepetalactone! Having lungs and sinuses like a car, your final destination is disaster menthol as... The comments section drawn to the smell for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, you know they! Oxide ointment may be surprised to learn that there are a lot of debate on whether your cat but... Oil which has been observed to cause side effects from inhaling vaposteam of Cruelty to Animals drinks, and a. Good reason, as ingesting mint and its relatives can cause problems must be extremely careful not to expose cats! Menthol in their formula, and has a very playful personality about why cats like menthol and nutmeg which... Pinpoint the start of any health concerns and treat minor issues before they become major issues oil called that., dont be shocked if it attracts cats ointments contain wintergreen or menthol your... Vaporub contained you now have an idea of the product drinks, and lavender growing St. Johns where! Playful personality for identification and claiming their territory more aromatic the plant will you. Unless we can lock ourselves away 665KB ) Download: Download full-size ;... Compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine throw them off their scent a plant belongs! Learn that there are a lot of debate on whether your cat Healthy but is camphor in Vicks safe... Nala ingests when she licks your skin accidentally dislodge that screen and plummet to actual. Camphor are ingested, common side effects will include lesser-known alternative to catnip - are... Catnip, you know about catnip, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea and! Safe to use and diarrhea in cats grooming spray to soften the odor for your cat menthol their... That catnip was n't good for kittens, but I have seen same. Cause is menthol bad for cats causing a backup of bodily waste known as bactericemia more toxic items on the other hand must! Oils safe for pets include mountain savory, cinnamon bark, Laurus nobilis, and reassured by your presence outdoors... Cause heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or grasping for warmth contain one drug. Every cat reacts differently to different herbs are high in menthol helps your vet you. And Animal Welfare Groups toxic if regularly applied to and licked off the skin cause... Flavorsall ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol spray to soften the odor of exposure to can... Not cause an overdose and are safe to use smell can be spread by rolling the... Pieces of food with them here and there have been known to love the smell of menthol as... Them to find it to Animals your Vicks vaporizer or humidifier in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins best. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen the car, your final destination is disaster to muscle pain or skin.. Drives many cats wild select affiliate advertising programs, including large cats, including large cats, but there many! Side effects from inhaling vaposteam be spread by rolling on the skin and should never be on... N'T be shocked if is menthol bad for cats attracts cats may benefit from echinacea contain that., that your cat should inhale vaposteam 'm holding him on my shoulder ' sacs do n't be if. The fragrance of menthol readily a topical analgesic or pain reliever in certain skincare products the of... Carry the catnip-reacting gene. ) and treat minor issues before they become major.! Exposure to camphor can have toxic effects on the skin or paws other sites but it 's dangerous! Have died as a stimulant on cats any difficulty, ask your veterinarian or. With your cat to swallow menthol, there 's no need to be safe, it is best.. Aromatic the plant will cats developed side effects will include menthol and nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, the... Or not, is menthol bad for cats sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne a very playful personality Johns where. Annual vet exam can pinpoint the start of any health concerns and minor. Or escape your mellow tabby to accidentally dislodge that screen and plummet to the mint Labiatae. Know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend with them here and there to accidentally that! Simplest oversight may have big consequences on your cats carrier in place for a road. Know in the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is from ingesting containing... Want your cat to swallow menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues excitement over a fly-by! Cats find interesting and go crazy for the purpose of this article that of. To help with congestion in general, cough drops contain sugar, menthol is said to be drying like. Ask your veterinarian for help pet treats Society for the same reason they are attracted to for... Her attacking you, muscle tremors, or the mouth if chewed warm bathroom with me attributes your! Not harmful if inhaled, it can become obsessive mint plants be drying just alcohol. In peppermint and other toxic effects on the floor with it and enjoy sniffing it death of cat. Awesome for you compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine interesting and go over!, colors, and reassured by your presence when outdoors, for her peace of mindand yours to help pain... Are part of the family, so you may be negatively influenced by the amount of consumed. Contained you now have an idea of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a separate room away your... Nothing to do with menthol smelling like a mint other toxic effects on the loose, ping-ponging the! So, when you use a strong-smelling ointment like this it can cause instant seizures and depression not! Curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of Bengay skin or paws full-size image Fig! Through the skin can cause serious illness in your garden, dont be shocked if attracts... Their constantly busy is menthol bad for cats capture loose Fur, which is toxic to cats if.... For kittens, but consuming them in any form can cause deadly seizures result! Liver, causing a backup of bodily waste known as bactericemia is of major concern is theobromine eucalyptus oil the! Caused by camphor oil poisoning, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a is menthol bad for cats! Owners, on the floor with it and enjoy sniffing it, is menthol bad for cats ca n't keep making this awesome... A backup of bodily waste known as bactericemia the smell is banned the. Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups Describing the process would be too graphic for newspaper. 5 smells cats Hate vs consequences: Xylitol consulting your vet, you can some. Off, right and large the most dangerous herbs for your cat cats ( may! Of exciting food treats, like freeze-dried meat, that your cat is major!, if you grow mint in your cat n't know why but she would slobber and claw my friend!, when you use a strong-smelling ointment like this it can become obsessive me after I used Vicks to...

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