Holistic options aren’t just for humans. We can use essential oils safely on our feline friends too.
Before you jump into using natural solutions on your cat, it is important to learn which are safe, which are toxic and how to use them correctly. Pets, especially cats, metabolize essential oils differently than humans, so you want to use top quality, thoroughly tested and trusted essential oils. (Not to be confused with “scent” oils)
For a deep dive into using essential oils on pets and farm animals, I encourage you to check out the expert, Veterinarian, Dr. Janet Roark.
Tips for using oils successfully
Use only certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils (after completing my essential oil coaching certification with the Essential Oil Institute (Dr. Axe), I narrowed the brands I wanted to use to two and ended up going with doTERRA because the oils are the best of the best)
- Diffusers are absolutely safe to use with your kitty as long as they are not locked in a room and have the ability to roam freely. If they are bothered by a certain smell, they will leave the room.
- Essential oils can be used topically with your cat but they should always be diluted.
- Keep an eye on your kitty the first couple of times that you apply oils to make sure their behavior is ok.
- Avoid applying essential oils near the eyes, ears, nose, or genitals.
- Do not use topically if you are using another topical medication or dermal patch.
Three ways to use essential oils on cats
- Topically: dilute and apply to cats fur
- Aromatically: run a diffuser (I love the ones with a 10+ hour run time)
- On Belongings: You can put a drop of essential oil on your cat’s bed, on their collar or on their favorite blanket.
Topical Application
Cats metabolize essential oils differently than humans and dogs. As a result, the oils need to be diluted more to be used safely. Use the following guidelines when using essential oils topically on your cat. See if the high dilution gives you results and work from there. You can always increase the essential oil concentration if you don’t get the desired effect.
The recommended topical use dilution ratio range for cats is:
- High Dilution: 1 drops essential oil to 4 tablespoon carrier oil
- Low Dilution: 2 drops essential oils to 1 tablespoon carrier oil
- Kittens under 6 lbs and cats over 10 years: 1 drop essential oils to 4 tablespoons carrier oil
- Hot Oils: 1 drop essential oils to 4 tablespoons carrier oil
How to apply
- Along the spine (pet the hair backwards from tail to head to get the oil to the skin)
- Massage
- Reflexology points on the skin between the back paw pads.
- Ear tipping.
- Directly to the area of interest.
- In your pet’s shampoo.
- In a Roller Bottle or Spray.
- Spray diluted oil onto their brush before grooming.
Aromatic Use
- I recommend using a water based diffuser. 4 drops usually does the trick
- Your cat should always have a way to exit the room in case they become overwhelmed or uncomfortable with the smell.
- Observe your pet for 10-15 minutes each time you diffuse a new oil to check their reaction.
top 7 essential oils for your cat
The following is a list of the Top 7 doTERRA Essential Oils that are safe for cats and can help with specific targeted health needs.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times due to its versatility and soothing properties. It is very safe for cats and is incredible for calming them down. It’s a go-to oil for separation anxiety, thunderstorms, barking dogs, etc. Lavender can also be used on your cat to soothe skin irritations and help skin recover quickly.Lavender can be used neat (undiluted) but I always recommend diluting with a carrier oil until you feel out your feline.
Topical application:
- Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily
Aromaticac Use:
- Diffuse for 30–60 minutes prior to a stressful event (e.g., before a thunderstorm, fireworks, company, groomer or vet visit).
- Use 2 drops diluted in distilled water in a small spray bottle on bedding, toys, or blankets.
- Add to shampoo or apply to the back of the neck or base of the ears.
Frankincense
The king of oils, doTERRA Frankincense essential oil is known to promote cellular health and immunity and is safe to be consumed daily by your cat for certain internal benefits. Frankincense can also promote feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction, and overall wellness. This is another oil that can be used neat but again, I always recommend diluting.
Frankincense oil is helpful:
- for post-surgery recovery;
- for relaxation, to help with negative feelings;
- to promote a healthy nervous system;
- to maintain healthy skin;
Topical use: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily.
On Guard
This fabulous protective blend protects your cat against environmental and seasonal issues with Essential Oils known for their positive effects on the immune system. On Guard includes Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Leaf, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Leaf, and Rosemary Leaf/Flower essential oils. When diffused, OnGuard Protective blend helps purify the air and support healthy respiratory function in your cat, and can be very energizing and uplifting.
It also provides cleansing and purifying benefits while promoting healthy circulation.
- An effective alternative to synthetic options for immune support.
- Supports the body’s natural antioxidant defenses.
- Supports healthy immune function.
- Protects against environmental threats.
- Supports healthy respiratory function.
Topical application:
- Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily
Aromaticac Use:
- Diffuse for 2-3 hours as needed. Remember to make sure your cat is free to leave the room.
myrrh
MYRRH Essential Oil has been used for centuries and is known for its positive effect on immune and nervous systems, and skin. It is very helpful when you are dealing with discomfort in your cat and emotional issues such as the feeling of being abandoned or neglected. The oil can also be used to help with skin conditions.
Benefits of Myrrh:
- calms the nervous system, and balance emotions;
- supports general well-being;
- effective for skin conditions, and stimulates appetite;
- reduces negative emotions.
Topical application: Apply as needed.
Copaiba
This oil supports the health of the immune, digestive, urinary, respiratory, and nervous systems of cats. It can be applied topically and aromatically. Diluted oil can also be used for mild cuts.
Benefits of Copaiba Essential Oil:
- Decreases negative emotions, and helps with stress and anxiety;
- Relaxes sore joints;
- Promotes lymphatic flow;
- Supports the upper and lower respiratory tract;
- Promotes general wellbeing.
Topical application: follow dilution chart as needed.
Aromatic application: Diffuse as needed, the preferred method
Helichrysum
This oil is a liver stimulator, acting as a detoxifier that also carries antibiotic and anti-fungal properties. It’s known also for the many benefits it provides to the skin, gut, heart, and more.
Helichrysum oil promotes healthy metabolism and improves vitality and energy.
Topical use: Dilute oil, apply to hand and pet your cats ears and tail.
terrashield
A single application of this bug fighter lasts 6 hours. It has a fresh, light citrus scent, is wonderfully invigorating and can be used safely by your fur baby. This particular oil does not need to be diluted. To ward off pesky insects, apply OUTDOOR BLEND to the legs and neck of your cat before going outdoors. You can also put 1–2 drops on your cat’s collar before going outside. You can also use the Terrashield Spray and spray it on your cat before going outside.
If your cat spends lots of time outside, you can make this DIY Pest Collar.
oils to avoid
According to our vet friend, Janet Roark, all oils are safe to diffuse with your fur baby but the following essential oils should be avoided for topical or internal use with cats:
- Basil
- Bergamot
- Birch
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Dill
- Fennel
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lime
- Tea Tree
- Orange
- Oregano
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Spearmint
- Tangerine
- Thyme
- Wintergreen
diffuser blends
Respiratory Support for Cats, recipe by Dr. Janet Roark
Cardamom Essential Oil, 5 drops
Arborvitae Essential Oil, 5 drops
Use a 1-2 oz spray bottle, mix the oils with distilled water or carrier oil (preferred). Shake well before each use, spray 2-4 times daily to promote healthy breathing
De – stress Blending Recipe (a great formula during thunderstorms and fireworks)
Lavender Essential Oil, 2 drops
Copaiba Essential Oil, 2 drops
Frankincense Essential Oil, 1 drop
Calming Blending Recipe
Frankincense Essential Oil, 2 drops
Lavender Essential Oil, 2 drops
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil, 2 drops
Natural Solutions, like doTERRA Essential Oils, can be used safely on your cat without the side effects of many medications. They are also cost effective. For example, if your cat has storm anxiety, a single treatment is only 8 cents.
In the event of an adverse reaction, dilute with a carrier oil – skin irritation is the most common, and most reactions resolve within 24–48 hours after oil exposure.
While incredibly rare, discontinue use of an oil if your pet shows signs of distress, drooling, squinting, rubbing their face, vocalization, shaking, vomiting, or diarrhea.
helpful resources
- Spoil Your Pet by Mia K Frezzo DVM
- Animal Desk Reference II by Melissa Shelton DVM
- Dr. Janet Roark
*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
