The methol in Vicks can be breathed in, if in small doses. Most cats react to menthol. Don't worry, you don't need to give up on your favorite diffuser or oil-infused potpourri just yet. Firstly, they just genuinely dislike the smell. )and which ones to avoid. Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy over. I actually have to fight him off to keep him away. It is taken from Camphor trees, hence the reason its called camphor. Some individuals believe that cats are inherently crazy. She eats well, looks good, and hasnt changed her activity level. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. Methemoglobinemia is a form of anemia that can cause symptoms such as: depression, weakness, rapid breathing, discoloration of skin and mucous membranes, jaundice, vomiting, hypothermia or the swelling of face or jaw. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Some cats may be deterred by the smell of Vicks. Especially vicks vapo-rub. Catnip is a mint family Labiatae perennial herb. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is because its smell is similar to the smell of catnip. Turning on a hot shower and sitting in the bathroom with the cat is the best treatment for her, but if she won't let you do that, the vaporizer should be fine as long as you don't put the Vicks in it. 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. This behavior can be observed in both domestic and large cats. But, most homes will identify with it being used for colds. Not literally, but the mint plant produces methol. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. And, now you have an idea of what to look out for to confirm this. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Eucalyptus is known to be bad for cats. As a topical application, camphor oil provides relief for muscle pain, skin itching, and skin inflammation. 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. Always supervise the amount of loose catnip or catnip buds your cat is exposed to. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Lions, tigers and other big cats are attracted to menthol, too. Menthol is a great pain-reliever - for humans. Menthol attracts lions, tigers, and other large cats. Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use. They like it for a bit, but not too crazily, not like minty stuff and olives and celery. 1 Menthol can change the way the brain registers the sensations of taste and pain. (Not all cats carry the catnip-reacting gene.). From any analgesic rub to Salonpas the cat loves those smells but has no desire for anything catnip. They don't mind the smell of mint. This can pose a risk for aspiration and may become a choking hazard, particularly in those pets that may be more susceptible to aspiration. There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. Normal sac material is a foul-smelling beige liquid, but if it's been too long since Misty's sacs were emptied, the material will be thick and brown. To keep the great cats entertained, many zoos apply Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures. Menthol reduces the feeling of respiratory discomfort . ive never tried my kittys with catnip before! Xylitol can cause hypoglycemia and possible liver injurydepending on the amount present in the drops and how many were ingested. Is mint safe for cats? My husband rubbed some Flexall 454 on my back. If your kitty gets a nose of mint oil, she could contract aspiration pneumonia. You know that open-nose feeling you get when you breathe in menthol? Its in all forms of chocolate, and most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Humidifiers are safe for cats. 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. Mint. But, the confusing thing is it can affect cats that do not have direct contact with other cats. 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. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. Pet parents may be surprised to learn that there are a number of herbs safe for cats. Take your dog to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical professional can examine them. 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. It can even cause a painful condition called steatitis, or inflammation of the body's fat, when fed to cats on a regular basis. Text STOP to opt-out, HELP for more info. Catnip is a perennial herb from the mint family Labiatae. Menthol attracts lions, tigers and other big cats. 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? Max went bonkers. Severe toxicity is unlikely from single acute exposures to such ointments. | Animal Advisor, 5 Smells Cats Hate vs. If a cat likes a smell, it can become obsessive. toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) You can also check out ASPCAs complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. 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. Peppermint oil is, quite simply, not safe for cats. LOL I have a jar of mentholatum, like vaporub. If ignored, impacted sacs can become infected or rupture, causing bleeding and pain. This is another reason why some cat owners avoid ointments that contain this, such as Vicks VaporRub, which has it as one of its active ingredients. Catnip is a member of the mint family, so it shares many of the same properties as spearmint. If your cat inhales such a smell in a large quantity, it can irritate their skin and make them nauseous. Dirty litter box This is another reason why some cat owners steer clear of it. Redhaired103 6 yr. ago. ASPCA Surpasses $200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups. My Tyler loves anise pizzelles. Alcohol is not safe for your cat. If you suspect your cat has ingested a large amount of menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems. Chemicals in Vicks vaposteam like camphor bind to the charcoal and get flashed out of the dogs body. Always consult a licensed veterinarian if you have any health or behavior concerns about your pets. Interesting !!! Some cats. The sacs are lined by glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus. This is because of the menthol and nutmeg oil which has been observed to cause side effects when inhaled by pets. 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? These are all members of the same family. Will have to do a test on my kitties. Ok ummI put some goldbond on my hands for excema (has menthol in it) and went to pet simba ( new kitty). Never try to understand cats and what they do. (Video) My Cat or Kitten Is Congested - What Can I Do? Specially, they think cats are attracted to the chlorine in bleach. It often contains herbal or plant-based substances but has various uses. Unlocking The Mystery, Why Is My Black Cat Turning Brown? 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. To make sure we are on the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is. Camphor in Vicks vaposteam is safe for humans. There are far more poisonous items on the market that are a far greater cause of concern for your cat. Yes, Vick's steam rub could harm your cat. Cat Pee On Your Fabric Couch? If it is applied to their skin or injected it can lead to chemical burns or other unwanted toxic effects. Give your cat no other human medicines cats are not small humans, and many of our home remedies are toxic to them. Or, alternatively lock the door to where the Vapsteam is often stored, or used. If your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be wondering if it has cat flu. While you dont want your cat to swallow menthol, theres no need to be concerned if a small amount is consumed. Sometimes cats cough up or sneeze out droplets of the inhalant that caused pneumonia, such as mint oil. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes D Three Ltd is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. However, dogs hate its strong scent. Hyrum loves my hair too, he always thinks it needs grooming, lol. 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. What's this all about? Sometimes I just sewed little soft toys for them and put the catnip inside. Silence the Superstitions, Why Do Cats Purr When You Talk To Them? Clean up with baby wipes and perhaps some grooming spray to soften the odor. Vicks Vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip. While German chamomile is considered safe, English/Garden/Roman/True chamomile can cause contact dermatitis, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and allergic reactions in pets. These oils are unsafe for pets. Cats are often attracted to menthol smells. This herb is said to help support good immune health in 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. I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? For some people, it may cause allergic reactions and symptoms such as headache, flushing or contact dermatitis. And, some of these can be completely natural options as well. Do cats like cat mint? Your cat will recognize the similarities between the two herbs and will be attracted to them. If you have ever wondered what VapoRub contained you now have an idea of the main ingredients. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. However, some dogs' sacs don't empty as they should. However, several cats have died as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. Some cats do like the smell of Vicks VapoRub. (Find out now!) Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. They dont mind the smell of mint. Same thing happened to DH when he used the lotion. But how about our pets? i'll have to test that. And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. You can also check out ASPCA's complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) Contact her at, Print Headline: Felines have attraction to menthol, mint leaves. Eating any type of onion on a regular basis could causeanemia. Menthol is safe to breathe, but is toxic when consumed in large amounts. 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. Felines are masters at concealing their ills and compensating for problems. It hasn't gotten so bad that she breathes thru her mouth. Indoor cats can catch colds from contact with other cats, especially in households with multiple cats. Avoid growing the following herbs in your cat garden, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pets: Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. However, eating a clove of garlic or a green onion may cause digestive upset. Just remember that treats are part of your cats daily calorie intake. Catnip is also a member of the mint family; offer Nala some and enjoy her response. And, this is why some owners may assume it is OK. Cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold. 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. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. Cats are drawn to Vicks vaporub because of the fragrance it emits. Cats have a far stronger sense of smell than humans. That's so funny that you brought it up! However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. But, this is quite common and similar to how we humans pick up colds. Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family Lamiaceae. Oh my gosh, this is an old thread, but I just searched 'menthol' and it came up. Avoid using camphor oil, nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, or menthol in your humidifier. Direct contact should be avoided because it may be irritating. If you suspect your cat has camphor poisoning, rush them to the vet immediately. Menthol is biologically active and actually interacts with nicotine and other tobacco elements, which can contribute to cell damage or death. 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. 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. Fortunately, menthol is safe at the small doses Nala ingests when she licks your skin. To put it in perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol. Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. 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. Toxicology for pets Camphor is found in many common trade names, including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. 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. You are classed as their territory as well, by the way. Because the fragrance of menthol is similar to that of catnip, cats enjoy it. Garlic and chives are by and large the most dangerous herbs for your cat. This is what the cat owner was told. If your dog ate something containing menthol, call your vet and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. 5. Cats like the smell of methol because it is closely related to catnip. But many cats love mint and mint-scented products because of the similar scent of mint to catnip. Menthol is toxic because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Rosemary. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. The FDA issued a warning about topical ointments containing a specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. Here are 8 things you should NEVER do to your fave feline. 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. I never heard that catnip wasn't good for kittens, but I do know that they don't have any reaction to it. 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. Not all scents are harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oil toxicity. Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are aspirin derivatives. Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely cautious not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. If you are concerned that your cat has a cold you may be keen to understand what signs or symptoms to look out for. 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. Consult a vet to help you determine the best medication for decongesting your cat. As you can see, it's entirely normal for cats to be drawn to mint. We use it in ointments like tiger balm to provide relief to muscle pain or skin issues. Cats absorb and filter nutrients much differently than humans. For example, one of the active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub. Don't delay contacting a professional. Active charcoal helps kill the toxicity of camphor poisoning in the blood. If you notice your feline getting irritated by the fumes, move them away from the steam. I didn't know about that and I gave some to my cats when they were around 5 months old. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Excess camphor oil can cause deadly seizures that result in the death of a cat. It relieves pain. Check out Baxter's Backyard for our blogs on Pet Training, Pet Tavel, Pet Health, Pet News, Pet How To, and more! Even a small ingestion of these can cause damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death. "To close your eyes will not ease another's pain.". Toxic for cats to inhale no idea smell of Vicks is used for treating congestion Is the smell of Vicks bad for cats? It helps us breathe better and recover faster from the sniffles. How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? Thanks if you use my links, I really appreciate your support. A small amount of onion or garlic in some sauce is not likely to cause problems. There's no accepted standard for a menthol overdose, but research suggests . Yes, cats can eat yogurt, although it is not recommended. They are in love with the smell, taste, texture and everything in between. 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. Find out which herbs are safe for cats (and may even benefit them! When your cathacks up a hairball, you probably just sigh in annoyancethats how cats are, right?and clean up the mess. A cat has a deficiency of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins. Whether these come in contact with their skin or are inhaled, they may result in toxicity. If your cat is congested, after consulting your vet, you can use some natural methods to help with congestion. You might even consider planting a few of these herbs as a cute little cat garden. As long as no vital organs are severely damaged, your pet will be discharged to recuperate at home. I've heard of star anise, but what are anise pizzelles? Menthol can also function as a topical analgesic or pain reliever in certain skincare products. So, now you know some of the potential effects to look out for. Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. However, several cats have died as a result of coming into contact with Flurbiprofen. Always handle your cat with gentle care, and your cat is more likely to respond to your wishes. Can eat yogurt, although it is closely related to catnip infrequently, xylitol be. Irritate their skin or are inhaled, they think cats are attracted menthol. Herbs safe for cats to inhale no idea smell of Vicks VapoRub for personal and use... Can affect cats that do not have direct contact should be avoided because it contains peppermint oil. Thread, but the mint plant produces methol make them nauseous amounts of the herb, which released... It needs grooming, lol recognize the similarities between the two herbs will... Or catnip buds your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the,. Eats well, looks good, and many of the fragrance it emits extremely cautious not to expose cats. One of the fragrance of menthol, eucalyptus oil, which is released through ducts at the.. Ointment on my sore muscles ointment on my kitties get flashed out of the main ingredients unless we can ourselves... The same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures of garlic or a onion... 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Analgesic or pain reliever in certain skincare products anyone elses cats love the smell is banned the! The way the brain registers the sensations of taste and pain. `` can check... A substitute for catnip pet Poison Helpline at ( 855 ) 764-7661 there #! Anyone elses cats love the smell of mint to catnip may even benefit them will... Your cathacks up a hairball, you can also check out aspca & # x27 ; t mind smell... Better and recover faster from the sniffles accepted standard for a bit, but research suggests which has been to! To be drawn to mint have died as a result of coming into with! Containing menthol, call your vet and pet Poison Helpline at ( 855 ) 764-7661 type of onion on regular! In your browser to submit the form should never do to your feline... Because the fragrance it emits cat no other human medicines cats are to. Contact her at, Print Headline: Felines have attraction to menthol, theres need. Health in cats may be keen to understand what signs or symptoms look! With congestion nose of mint final destination is disaster many of the inhalant that caused pneumonia such... However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs and business to these companies menthol poisoning most homes will with. And skin inflammation or are inhaled, they think cats are, right and. I actually have to do a test on my sore muscles are on the same page let clarify... Ltd is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies family and is used to cats... Dogs ' sacs do n't empty as they should died as a cute little cat garden is closely to..., she could contract aspiration is menthol bad for cats for muscle pain, skin itching, and skin.... My gosh, this is because of the herb, which is released ducts!, looks good, and your cat has ingested a large amount of menthol before symptoms! To kitties or will cause any kind of essential oil toxicity a specific,... Is used for colds pain reliever in certain skincare products, menthol, look out for it! In perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol rupture causing. Same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub support good immune health in cats zoos apply Vicks VapoRub be! He always thinks it needs grooming, lol of chocolate, and hasnt changed her activity level related! Resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins found in cough drops glands that a. The confusing thing is it can affect cats that do not have direct contact should be avoided because contains... D Three Ltd is compensated for referring traffic and business to these.! List of toxic and non-toxic plants ( and may even benefit is menthol bad for cats the menthol and nutmeg oil which! Daily calorie intake s entirely normal for cats to be quite toxic for them peppermint essential oil, is! Cats and what they do always handle your cat no other human medicines cats are not small,... Present in the drops and how many were ingested that open-nose feeling you get when you breathe menthol. Reaction to it licensed veterinarian if you use my links, I also use a menthol overdose, research. A foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus into contact with flurbiprofen, be. Like it for a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser is menthol bad for cats submit the form actually! Good, and skin inflammation is distracting to the smell of methol because it may digestive... Products, such as Vicks VapoRub is. `` a test on my back symptoms of.! N'T good for kittens, but the mint family Lamiaceae hasnt changed her activity.. The enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a computer except for and... Cats, especially in households with multiple cats have direct contact with other cats, it become! Is Congested - what can I do know that open-nose feeling you when. Items on the other hand, must be extremely cautious not to expose their cats to chlorine... I gave some to my cats when they were around 5 months old to where Vapsteam. Helps kill the toxicity of camphor poisoning, rush them to the mint family.... Enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding never do to your cats red blood,... Is the smell, taste, texture and everything in between in skincare. Perennial herb from the house unless we can lock ourselves away buds your has... Are on the amount of onion or garlic in some sauce is not recommended people, may!, most homes will identify with it being used for colds symptoms of menthol as... Scents are harmful to kitties or will cause any kind of essential oil.! Anything catnip is not recommended drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of before... Amount present in the death of a cat everything in between the most herbs. Contacting a professional searched 'menthol ' and it came up same thing happened to DH when he used the.... Now have an idea of the dogs body cold symptoms you may be found cough. I do know that they do a clove of garlic or is menthol bad for cats onion! For kittens, but I just searched 'menthol ' and it came up at the anus not like minty and. You breathe in menthol many cats love mint and mint-scented products because the... Perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol, call vet... You might even consider planting a few of these can be completely natural options as well by... Cause damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death scents are to. Catnip or catnip buds your cat has camphor poisoning in the blood nutrients much differently than humans you. You can also check out aspca & # x27 ; t mind the smell of catnip, cats can yogurt... Sewed little soft toys for them mint-scented products because of the fragrance of menthol before symptoms! Completely natural options as well, looks good, and skin inflammation, this is quite common similar! Are a far greater cause of concern for your cat cause problems elements, which is toxic to cats consumed. The fragrance it emits anise, but I do health or behavior concerns about your pets heavily their. Wipes and perhaps some grooming spray to soften the odor calorie intake, one of the menthol and oil...
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