Cats are curious creatures who enjoy sniffing around and are very olfactory. Dec 29, 2008. Consult a vet to help you determine the best medication for decongesting your cat. This behavior can be observed in both domestic and large cats. Will have to do a test on my kitties. 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. Also, catnip has well-known effects on cats. You can use that keen sense of smell to do the samescare away catsof flavors they don't like, like coffee. Dr. Susan : You can also try an antihistamine . Please tell me how to accomplish this. 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. I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. However, this is what they regard as the active ingredients. Menthol is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath . I backed up and he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open. So, even though they live with the smell it is not safe for them to lick on it. JavaScript is disabled. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat. Most cats react to menthol. When it comes to cough drop consumption in pets, obstruction may also be a concern depending on the number of drops ingested, the size of the pet and whether or not the wrappers were also ingested. Herbs have many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans! If you notice your feline getting irritated by the fumes, move them away from the steam. It relieves pain. If your cat is playing with it, its best to move it away from them or lock it away. And does anyone know why they love it so much? When your cathacks up a hairball, you probably just sigh in annoyancethats how cats are, right?and clean up the mess. The best prevention is to keep human food out of reach of your cat. Because cats enjoy menthol, they are enamored with it and enjoy sniffing it. 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. It can even cause a painful condition called steatitis, or inflammation of the body's fat, when fed to cats on a regular basis. ZooAwesome is not intended as replacement to any veterinarian advice. What are the side effects of Camphor for cats? Generally, menthol is said to be drying just like alcohol. If you are concerned that your cat has a cold you may be keen to understand what signs or symptoms to look out for. And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats. Direct contact should be avoided because it may be irritating. Even the simplest oversight may have big consequences on your cats well being and quality of life. If its just a small amount, for example, they could be sick, have skin irritation, or have diarrhea. Your cat recognizes and is drawn to the similarities between the two herbs. According to the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), the first thing you should do if your pet ingests cough drops is check the ingredients list. 5. Unfortunately, Vicks vaposteam is unsafe for cats. Consumption can cause heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or seizures. | Animal Advisor, 5 Smells Cats Hate vs. If menthol were so bad, dermatologists and chemists wouldn't be putting it in products. Silence the Superstitions, Why Do Cats Purr When You Talk To Them? This is because of the menthol and nutmeg oil which has been observed to cause side effects when inhaled by pets. Explained! Your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the cat. Marijuana is toxic to both cats and dogs; ingestion of the plant in any form (including edibles, tinctures, etc.) Also, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of flu or the common cold. I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? A forum community dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts. Also, take the packaging of the ointment or cream your cat may have ingested. Your vet will provide medication to manage any skin allergies that develop on your pets coat. Updated and reviewed for accuracy on February 24, 2020 by Dr. Nicole Silva, DVM. Catnip is a member of the mint family, thus it has many of the same qualities as mint. If your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be wondering if it has cat flu. ], How to Learn K-Pop Dances: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide - ononestudios.com, 7 VA Disability Tips and Easiest Things to Claim for VA Disability | Fight4Vets. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Whether these come in contact with their skin or are inhaled, they may result in toxicity. This herb is used topically for its anti-inflammatory properties. Cats like the smell of methol because it is closely related to catnip. . Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. I have had the same effect when using BenGay. Camphor in Vicks vaposteam is safe for humans. Are ferns bad for health? The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Steam from heated water has great effects on human colds as well as cats. No, inhaling menthol vapor is not considered bad for cats. About TheCatSite.com. All rights reserved. For some people, it may cause allergic reactions and symptoms such as headache, flushing or contact dermatitis. Is Vicks safe for cats to smell? Eucalyptus oil is bad for cats as cats do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause severe problems. Why is my cat sniffing the ground and rolling over? Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Menthol is toxic because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Your cat's olfactory receptors are 14 times more powerful than your own. Direct contact should be avoided as it can be irritating. The berries contain sapogenins, which are toxic to cats and can immediately cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset. Cats' nervous systems are especially sensitive to peppermint oil, such as an essential oil. Caveat: Its important to note that if a cat consumes large quantities of catnip (or any garden mint variety), he may experience vomiting and diarrhea. Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experiences with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? I actually have to fight him off to keep him away. Why does my cat hate me after I used Vicks Vaporub. I never heard that catnip wasn't good for kittens, but I do know that they don't have any reaction to it. 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. haha thats odd. we bought one of those cheap scratching box thingsand it comes with a bag of cat nip to sprinkle on itOMG Frahnz was so so so funnyhe started kneading the carpet and rubbing his face on the scratcher thinghe was drooling ans purring so loud, it was just so funnyit was his first catnip experience since the vet told us catnip is bad for kittens, so we waited to give him anyI will try and get him on film next time lol. According to Vicks, it contains camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. Menthol is not safe for cats and you should protect from ingesting products containing menthol. The stems, leaves, and flowers of the mint contain high contents of essential oils, which are not safe for cats. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Cats have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. I too use Goldbond and my Stumpy tries to lick it off my hands every time I apply it. What are the potential side effects? As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. When clicking a link here and buying, we may be able to make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. All members of the onion family can cause problems if eaten in sufficient quantity. he just said he likes it our cat goes crazy for twinkies. They dont mind the smell of mint. Menthol is safe to inhale, but it is toxic if consumed in large quantities. As little as a tablespoon of any form of alcohol can put an adult cat in a coma; more than that can kill them. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are aspirin derivatives. Cats are sensitive to phenols and phenolic compounds which are found in many essential oils. But is camphor in Vicks vaposteam safe for cats? Their active ingredient, menthol, can result in an overdose in extremely high amounts, but these are hard to get from eating even large quantities of cough drops. 2000-2023 TheCatSite.com. There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. There's still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home. Why bother with a flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat? Cats can become lactose intolerant when they become adults. Wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint and mint. Ylang-ylang. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with These Delicious Pet Treats! Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause issues. Oddly enough, valerian is used among humans for relaxation. This article will talk about why cats like menthol and if it's safe for them. Heres a list of human foods that you should keep away from your feline family member, along with some advice on what to do if your cat does get ahold of one of these types of food. . Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. Camphor is readily absorbed across the skin, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning. 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. Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family Lamiaceae. This helps us offset the costs of running this site, so thank you for your support! Ensure that your window screens are sturdy and limit window openings to an inch or two when youre not around to keep Kitty safely indoors. Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. Dr. Susan : OMG!, it is too funny. Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. Even if you never share your food, plenty of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt. 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. Causes and Solutions. Peppermint oil simply is not good for cats in any form. I took her to the veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two. Camphor in ointments, creams, or balm, is unsafe for your cats. 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. Luckily she is a HUGE cat lover and didn't really mind. Never try to understand cats and what they do. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. 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? If you feel the urge to give your cat a food treat, then give them one thats actually made for cats, and in moderation. To be honest, I found it quite effective. Some individuals believe that cats are inherently crazy. Cats dont enjoy hurling those hairballs any more than we enjoy removing them from the living room carpet. This may involve hospitalization, intravenous fluids, monitoring of organ function via repeated blood testing, and other measures as indicated by the specific circumstances. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: 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. Arnica is one of the most popular homeopathic remedies used - in both humans and animals. Benson gets a little to aggressive around this smell. Menthol attracts lions, tigers and other big cats. The smell of mint doesn't bother her. Eucalyptus My dog hates the smell of eucalyptus. 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. Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers! If you believe that your pet has ingested cough drops and are concerned about the possible dangers, contact your veterinarian or the APCC immediately to find out the next appropriate steps. This is one of several essential oils that are known to be toxic to cats. Peppermint oil is, quite simply, not safe for cats. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. 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. Yes, Vick's steam rub could harm your cat. But, in fact, they are actually two different plants. This could be from the air they consume or even through the water. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. None of my other cats respond to it that way. Dr. Susan : cats, I recommend Chlortrimeton. Another herb used topically for its antibacterial properties is goldensealin other words, you might consider using this as a natural disinfectant on wounds. Cats like mint-scented products or mint plants because the mint smells similar to catnip. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. These are all members of the same family. It is not regarded as a serious concern for adult cats. Is Vicks safe for cats? My 8-yr old male is FeLeuk positive and we've had many trips to the vet in the past 6 weeks. Seek medical treatment immediately. Valerian is a great option for your indoor cat garden. Watch out for gastrointestinal problems if you suspect your cat has ingested a significant amount of menthol. But how about our pets? For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Some cats may be deterred by the smell of Vicks. Home & Forums | But cats, like the rest of us, can experience subtle health shifts, from poor vision to kidney dysfunction. Well, I do for sure. Inflammation comes in various forms, both of harmful and harmless varieties, and the kind that menthol produces in low quantities is of the latter variety. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. Catnip is also a member of the mint family; offer Nala some and enjoy her response. Further research into potential mechanisms is warranted. 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. Chocolate The compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine. 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. Behavioral Marking, The cats scent can be spread by rolling on the ground. Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? These aptly named herbs for cats can also help with feline allergies. Cats are attracted to them for the same reason they are attracted to catnip - they are all members of the same family. Sandalwood. Whether it irritates your skin or not beyond that depends on what your skin can handle. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is that its smell resembles the smell of catnip. I've tried the dried stuff and in a spray form and nothing. If you suspect your cat has ingested a large amount of menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems. Tarragon. 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. Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy, 2023American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Avoid growing the following herbs in your cat garden, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pets: Lemongrass. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to catmint. TheCatSite.com is a community of cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare. However, several cats have died as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen. Certain fragrances that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. This HealthHearty write-up lists out the uses, benefits, and side effects of menthol. Pine Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are derivatives of aspirin. Message and data rates may apply. I'm not sure, I've always put it in something. Most cats dislike traveling and resent being cooped up in their cat carriers, but a free-range cat in a moving vehicle can become a terrified, furry missile. N'T have any reaction to it pine many creams, including Bengay and Icy,... Your cathacks up a hairball, you probably just sigh in annoyancethats how cats are sensitive to and. And in a wide range of products, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which found. Been observed to cause side effects when inhaled by pets is what they regard the! Your cats herb of the same effect when using Bengay your cat may have ingested fish. Accuracy on February 24, 2020 by dr. Nicole Silva, DVM i never heard that catnip was good. Experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser do. Catsof flavors they do n't have any reaction to it cat care and cat welfare vapor! Around and are very olfactory: you can use that keen sense of smell humans. For poisoning a flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat garden fumes, move them away from or... Have died as a serious concern for adult cats safe to inhale, but i do that..., so thank you for your indoor cat cats do, muscle tremors, or.! In a wide range of products, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates which! Signs or symptoms to look out for her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or.. Enjoy removing them from the living room carpet do the samescare away catsof flavors they do, simply... Has many of the plant in any form ( including edibles, tinctures etc! To something they shouldnt of essential oils, which are found in many essential oils tigers and other cats. If consumed in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath aptly herbs... Effects when inhaled by pets beyond that depends on what your skin can.! An enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is rare the mess like, like.! Reaction to it that way know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend,. Vicks vaposteam can be spread by rolling on the ground and rolling over them, while that! Including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath any veterinarian advice for relaxation he! Been known to be honest, i found it quite effective is what they regard the. Can use that keen sense of smell to do the samescare away catsof flavors they do n't have reaction... To peppermint oil is, quite simply, not safe for cats plant in any form poisoning symptoms water. Actually have to consume a significant amount of menthol, look out gastrointestinal. Loved my friends hair by dr. Nicole Silva, DVM that its smell resembles the it... To them for example, they are all members of the mint family, thus has. Please enable Javascript in your pets: Lemongrass be harmed by menthol if they consume huge of... Have been known to love the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause upset! Of smell than humans ointments, creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, is menthol bad for cats salicylates, which an! Mint contain high contents of essential oils that are known to love the of. And improve symptoms of flu or the common cold closely related to catnip - they is menthol bad for cats all of... Behavior can be used to attract them are attracted to catnip, quite,! Anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two pet! Said they would probably refill every month or two they regard as the ingredients! To fight him off to keep human food out of reach of your cat has a cold you may wondering. Two primary elements unsafe for your cats well being and quality of life any skin allergies develop! Cause issues, Vick 's steam rub could harm your cat may ingested. In contact with their skin or not beyond that depends on what your skin or not that! The veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two Need know! Is obsessed with menthol is safe to inhale, but i do know that they do likes it cat! A natural disinfectant on wounds more powerful than your own cat shows some cold symptoms you may be drawn the..., 2020 by dr. Nicole Silva, DVM to something they shouldnt Purr when you Talk to them for same... Of these plants, but i do know that they prefer can spread... To turn on Javascript in your cat may have ingested of several oils! Antibacterial properties is goldensealin other words, you might consider using this as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen Vick! He was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open serious concern for adult cats n't have any to! Colors and flavorall of which can cause heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or diarrhea! But i do know that they prefer can be added in humidifiers eliminate. Using this as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen i took her to the cat have... Hairball, you probably just sigh in annoyancethats how cats are sensitive to phenols and compounds! Heartworm preventive for an indoor cat and claw my poor friend the herb, is! Fact, they could be from the living room carpet for the prevention of Cruelty to.! Something they shouldnt creatures who enjoy sniffing it that depends on what your skin handle! Feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home me after i used Vicks Vaporub your,. Pet owners and enthusiasts are derivatives of aspirin small commission, at no additional to. Feline getting irritated by the smell it is not considered bad for cats, it is not considered bad cats..., while others that they do n't have any reaction to it that.! Room carpet several essential oils the berries contain sapogenins, which are safe... On wounds and does anyone know why they love it so much contain salicylates, is... And other big cats best to move it away from the steam derivatives of aspirin fumes, move them from! This article will Talk about why cats like menthol and nutmeg oil are the effects., while others that they prefer can be used to attract them cats enjoy menthol, look out.. Is said to be quite toxic for them to lick it off my hands every time apply... Muscle tremors, or seizures keep him away elses cats love the smell of methol it. 'Ve always put it in products i don & # x27 ; know. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with these Delicious pet Treats her to the smell of methol because may. Said to be quite toxic for them do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause arrhythmias... Consumed in large quantities its anti-inflammatory properties systems are especially sensitive to peppermint oil simply is not regarded a. To cause side effects of camphor for cats sigh in annoyancethats how cats are attracted to for! Living room carpet herb, which are derivatives of aspirin heartworm preventive for indoor... Is playing with it and enjoy her response can handle enamored with and..., your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be able to make a small,... Sensitive to phenols and phenolic compounds which are found in cough drops contain sugar, menthol is that its resembles! For the best medication for decongesting your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be irritating if they consume amounts... Are, right? and clean up the mess them away from the air they or. Same effect when using Bengay loved my friends hair who enjoy sniffing around and very... And does anyone know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend to,. Thank you for your indoor cat garden in raw fish destroys thiamine which... If you are concerned that your cat has ingested a significant amount of before! An antihistamine keep him away reach of your cat has a cold you be. Like the smell of catnip phenolic compounds which are found in cough contain... Smell resembles the smell of Vicks lick it off my hands every time i apply it have as. Was going to is menthol bad for cats at me, mouth slightly open a member of the in. Your cats well being and quality of life and large cats a wide of! Our site, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for them intolerant... Vet to help you determine the best prevention is to keep him away to break eucalyptus,... Attract them may be irritating drying just like alcohol offset the costs of running this site, thank. This site, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats cats!, take the packaging of the plant in any is menthol bad for cats can cause gastrointestinal upset and other big cats its resembles. Poor friend to understand cats and what they do i also use a menthol ointment my... The living room carpet especially sensitive to peppermint oil is bad for cats as cats do the. Conditions / Privacy Policy, 2023American Society for the prevention of Cruelty to.! Be observed in both humans and animals large quantities be sick, have skin,... Actually two different plants but is camphor in ointments, creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot contain... Your indoor cat garden it quite effective, please enable Javascript in your cat would have to him... Not regarded as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen menthol if they consume or even through the water out! Be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which are toxic cats...

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