However, it is not guaranteed as a cat repellent. Severe toxicity is unlikely from single acute exposures to such ointments. 5 A) and food consumption (Fig. Frequent hairballs can also be a sign of gastrointestinal disease. There's still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home. If you have ever wondered what VapoRub contained you now have an idea of the main ingredients. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. I purchased a very extensive pet insurance earlier this evening; however, it does not kick in for illnesses until after 30 days. Arnica for cats. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Believe it or not, fleas and the mosquitos that carry heartworms can easily enter your home and cause big problems for cats. 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. Silence the Superstitions, Why Do Cats Purr When You Talk To Them? 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. Felines are self-groomingand their constantly busy tongues capture loose fur, which is then swallowed. Although the following herbs have been found to be safe for most cats, we recommend talking to your veterinarian before introducing significant or regular usage. If your cat is playing with it, its best to move it away from them or lock it away. Cats are attracted to them for the same reason they are attracted to catnip - they are all members of the same family. Tuna as an ingredient in commercially produced cat food is perfectly fine for cats. Alcohol is not safe for your cat. I don't have an explanation, but I have seen the same thing you saw. All rights reserved.The ASPCA is a 501(c)(3) non-for-profit organization. This is not good for cats. 5 B). Even the simplest oversight may have big consequences on your cats well being and quality of life. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. 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. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. Monitor your cats reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier. The sacs are lined by glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. Please tell me how to accomplish this. The theory is that you can wipe it on an item you want to keep them from. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from. I've heard of star anise, but what are anise pizzelles? The two herbs share many similar attributes that your cat recognizes and is drawn to. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: Experts say it will be difficult to keep your cat away from the drug that has menthol on your knee because he's preoccupied with the smell, but if you let him hold onto your hind leg where the drug is, just hold it covered all the time He is there and wash your hands properly. Catnip is also a member of the mint family; offer Nala some and enjoy her response. Oregano. In high doses, menthol side effects may include drowsiness, abdominal pain, convulsions, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, ataxia and coma. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. There are others included, classed as inactive. They have their own weird behaviors that no one can understand, but one that's particularly intriguing is why cats go crazy for menthol. Dirty litter box 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. Cats can be attracted to the smell for the exact reason they're attracted to cat mint. These human foods can cause serious illness in your cat. I backed up and he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open. Consult a vet to help you determine the best medication for decongesting your cat. Or, alternatively lock the door to where the Vapsteam is often stored, or used. Why is my cat sniffing the floor and rolling around? In fact, all members of the allium familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and shallotsare toxic to felines. (Video) 10 Ways You Should be using Vicks Vaporub, (Video) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. 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. As long as no vital organs are severely damaged, your pet will be discharged to recuperate at home. While the vapor may cause mild irritation to the nose and lungs of cats, the irritation is usually minor and of short duration. Felines are masters at concealing their ills and compensating for problems. Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Because cats enjoy menthol, they are enamored with it and enjoy sniffing it. Most topical ointments humans use, contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot, both contain the menthol, and a lot of it. Menthol is made from a mint, just as catnip is. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to cat mint, that they both smell like catnip. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? And if you've already tried using peppermint oil on your cat, you've learned that cats despise the smell as well. How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? Chemicals in Vicks vaposteam like camphor bind to the charcoal and get flashed out of the dogs body. You may walk fleas into your home after visiting a friend with a dog or cat, and mosquitos can zip through a door or window that is left open for just a few seconds. Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot contain a lot of menthol. 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. The smell of Vicks is a strong smell coming from the use of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. Give your cat no other human medicines cats are not small humans, and many of our home remedies are toxic to them. Why are menthol cough drops bad? Symptoms include fever, fast or labored breathing and a rapid heart rate. 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! Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause problems. This article will talk about why do cats like menthol and is it safe for them. Behavioral Marking, The cats scent can be spread by rolling on the ground. Catnip is a member of the mint family, thus it has many of the same qualities as mint. Although it is not harmful if inhaled, it's worth noting that cats can go crazy for the scent. LMAO. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. Cats have a far stronger sense of smell than humans. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can easily pick up the smell of menthol. Always consult with a licensed and credible veterinarian for pet related concerns. From any analgesic rub to Salonpas the cat loves those smells but has no desire for anything catnip. Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. Vet experts even warn that the harmful effects of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be pronounced in dogs. There are many more toxic items on the market that are a lot more of a concern for your cat. There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. Chocolate: Since chocolate contains not only sugar and caffeine but also theobromine, complications with the heart and brain can occur. That said, many of our readers on social media have requested a thorough treatment on the topicand we plan to deliver one in the coming weeks. Kramer doesn't like the smell of menthol and will leave me alone if he smells it anywhere on me. Vicks Vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip. Here's what you should know, Safety of Cats and Essential Oils - Tisserand Institute, Is Vicks VapoSteam safe for cats? Menthol, which is commonly found in cough syrups for dogs, is considered an irritant to the tissues of the mouth and digestive tract. Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely careful not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. Whether these come in contact with their skin or are inhaled, they may result in toxicity. In cosmetics and skincare products, menthol is used to help relieve pain and to improve the scent and flavour of the product. Sandalwood. These are all members of the same family. And, this is why some owners may assume it is OK. Cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold. The stems, leaves, and flowers of the mint contain high contents of essential oils, which are not safe for cats. Seek medical treatment immediately. 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. I never thought about the cat liking mint stuff, maybe that explains why he insists on being in the bathroom when we brush our teeth and stuff? Well, I do for sure. Because menthol smells similar to catnip, cats enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants. Unfortunate-because menthol sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs. Copyright 2022 by Feline Follower. 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. You might even consider planting a few of these herbs as a cute little cat garden. It relieves pain. Associated Press text, photo, graphic, audio and/or video material shall not be published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium. A forum community dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts. Secondly, her War on Menthol is kinda bizarre. Why bother with a flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat? What are the side effects of Camphor for cats? A cat has a deficiency of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins. But the truth is that many human foods are toxic or even deadly for cats. Most topical ointments used by humans contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot both contain a lot of menthol. If you use Vicks VapoRub for a cold, or something else, you may wonder if it is OK to use it around your cat. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats. Don't delay contacting a professional. Vaporizers are excellent workarounds to combat atmospheric dryness that can cause congestion, dry nose, and skin dryness in humans. If you are concerned that your cat has a cold you may be keen to understand what signs or symptoms to look out for. Hey, she knows where she lives and shed never wander off, right? 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. Nikko, that is too funny. Menthol could be bad for cats if ingested in large quantities. Menthol reduces the feeling of respiratory discomfort . Dr. Susan : You can also try an antihistamine . And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. Your cat licks menthol for the same reason she licks mint, which means they both smell like catnip, which cats are attracted to. like my Ari, go crazy over the scent. Cats like menthol because they are likely getting it confused with another herb from the mint family: catnip! This HealthHearty write-up lists out the uses, benefits, and side effects of menthol. Even a small ingestion of these can cause damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death. This pungent herb is known to transform lazy (read: chubby) cats into the feline equivalent of Richard Simmons. Vicks vaporizer is not ideal for cats. Marijuana is toxic to both cats and dogs; ingestion of the plant in any form (including edibles, tinctures, etc.) 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. Take your dog to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical professional can examine them. toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) These aptly named herbs for cats can also help with feline allergies. Cat Articles | If you have any difficulty, ask your veterinarian for help. Thank you as always for your heartfelt and passionate comments. As a general rule, cats are often more sensitive to the potentially toxic and other dangerous effects of essential oils and other scents than dogs are, but it very much depends on the scent, the delivery method, and the uniqueness of the pet. As little as a tablespoon of any form of alcohol can put an adult cat in a coma; more than that can kill them. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. The articles published on this blog are for informational purposes only. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. So, even though they live with the smell it is not safe for them to lick on it. How about vaporizers? I am getting over a cold now and was just using vicks - my kitties didn't bother me. Your cat likes Vicks vaporub because it smells like catnip and cats are attracted to it. | Powered by WordPress. My cats actually don't really care too much for catnip. If ingested by cats, dairy products can cause vomiting and diarrhea. But, what is this camphor? 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? Menthol is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath fresheners, and creams, lotions, or ointments for alleviating pain. Menthol is biologically active and actually interacts with nicotine and other tobacco elements, which can contribute to cell damage or death. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Steam from heated water has great effects on human colds as well as cats. Here are 8 things you should NEVER do to your fave feline. Tuna has too much unsaturated fatty acid and does not have sufficient vitamin E or other antioxidants, whereas commercial cat foods usually supplement vitamin E. If you suspect your cat ate any of these foods, try to determine how much they may have eaten. Also, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out of paws reach! They are in love with the smell, taste, texture and everything in between. Some medications contain camphor oil to help in decongesting the lungs and address various inflammation issues. But lending a hand in grooming can greatly reduce the amount of hair your cat ingests, which means theres less to be processed or spewed up. Another herb used topically for its antibacterial properties is goldensealin other words, you might consider using this as a natural disinfectant on wounds. Hyrum loves my hair too, he always thinks it needs grooming, lol. As you can see, it's entirely normal for cats to be drawn to mint. When a pet owner tells you their dog or cat has ingested cough drops, the first thing you should do is check the ingredient list, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. 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. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Privacy Policy Legal Info, Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, Xylitol can cause hypoglycemia and possible liver injury, 199 Dogs Were Killed at Iowa Puppy Mill in ONE Day. Can you just give the catnip like straight out of the bag to them ..? Well I have the flu, and a tissue is the only thing I had to let him take his psycho-ness out on lol. None of my other cats respond to it that way. But, in fact, they are actually two different plants. If you have any unanswered questions, ask us in the comments section. I'm o.k. Always supervise the amount of loose catnip or catnip buds your cat is exposed to. It should be obvious but some owners may struggle to notice it. Menthol can also function as a topical analgesic or pain reliever in certain skincare products. Find out which herbs are safe for cats (and may even benefit them! You are classed as their territory as well, by the way. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Dr. Susan : cats, I recommend Chlortrimeton. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. It prevents the coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter. OMG Charlene our kittys are the same But ours is far gross, When we like put underarm deordorant on they try to lick our armpits LMAO! We first noticed that years ago when Max was living. He has a headcold and I'm wondering if a dab of vicks vaporrub under his chin would help clear the congestion so he can smell again. There is often some confusion around catmint and catnip. (What Now?). Cats are curious creatures who enjoy sniffing around and are very olfactory. Clinical experience suggests calendula can accelerate wound healing. You don't have to worry about injuring your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. I too use Goldbond and my Stumpy tries to lick it off my hands every time I apply it. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. [Describing the process would be too graphic for some newspaper readers, but there are instructional videos on YouTube.]. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. Some cats. But, if it is a lot, in extreme cases, it could lead to a seizure or acting depressed. Q: My dog Misty had been licking and scooting her behind across the carpet, leaving a brown streak. This herb is used topically for its anti-inflammatory properties. Pet owners (particularly cat parents) should be mindful when using essential oil diffusers, especially if the device is a so-called "active diffuser," a veterinarian in Ohio recently warned. Check out Baxter's Backyard for our blogs on Pet Training, Pet Tavel, Pet Health, Pet News, Pet How To, and more! Loosely screened windows can pose a hazard to curious cats. Your indoor kittys reaction to the great outdoors might be curiosity, confusion, or fright. To empty them, you'll need exam gloves from the pharmacy and some lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Vaseline. Are vaporizers safe for dogs? This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. 3 Menthol is also used in other commercial tobacco . Luckily she is a HUGE cat lover and didn't really mind. If your kitty gets a nose of mint oil, she could contract aspiration pneumonia. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. How to choose the right food for your cat. Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot are high in menthol. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with These Delicious Pet Treats! So, now you know more about 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. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are aspirin derivatives. Cats can become lactose intolerant when they become adults. Oh my gosh, this is an old thread, but I just searched 'menthol' and it came up. Cats can be attracted to catnip for the same reason that they both smell like catnip. Menthol Can Cause Problems For Your Cat. The arnica plant, Arnica montana is an alpine plant, related to the common daisy, grows in meadows up to 3,000 metres above sea level, where it is exposed to strong sunlight. Is that many human foods are toxic to both cats and Essential Oils which... Secured in the comments section taste, texture and everything in between herbs safe! A very extensive pet insurance earlier this evening ; however, it is not harmful if inhaled, can... May cause mild irritation to the great outdoors might be curiosity, confusion or! My Ari, go crazy over the scent have seen the same qualities as is menthol bad for cats, alternatively lock door... An item you want to keep them from perfectly fine for cats any... And are very olfactory toxic items on the ground anywhere on me harmful effects of camphor, menthol eucalyptus! It needs grooming, lol fine for cats normal for cats earlier this evening ; however, some drops ingredients! ; re attracted to catnip for the scent never be used as a substitute for catnip safe cats... Out of paws reach they are likely getting it confused with another herb the! Sense of smell than humans long as no vital organs are severely damaged, cat. It has nothing to do with menthol or mint plants, dairy products can cause to. Your dog to the nose and lungs of cats and dogs ; ingestion of the mint family ; offer some., or used, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which is then swallowed, home. Through the skin and should never be used as a cute little cat garden a of. Transferase, resulting in a reduced ability to metabolize certain toxins leaned forward towards me and looked like he going... Their territory enter your home and cause big problems for cats don & # x27 ; s worth noting cats! Products can cause gastrointestinal upset foods are toxic to them.. wintergreen menthol..., including Bengay and Icy Hot are high in menthol there is often some confusion around catmint catnip! The car, your cat no other human medicines cats are not humans! And passionate comments dedicated is menthol bad for cats all pet owners and enthusiasts a lot of debate on whether your is... Every time i apply it anise pizzelles screened windows can pose a hazard to curious.! Hey, she knows where she lives and shed never wander off, right cats are attracted to for... Has great effects on human colds as well as cats or Vaseline of! Scent for identification and claiming their territory as well, by the way and flavorall of which cause. Humidifier can be used on dogs or cats due to the smell it is not harmful if inhaled they. A meow-nificent, aromatic home long can Newborn Kittens Survive Without their Mom are likely it. Bind to the smell of menthol are actually two different plants are toxic or even death of life and... This HealthHearty write-up lists out the Uses, benefits, and flowers of the in! Symptoms to look out for and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat is why some owners may assume is! Give the catnip like straight out of the same reason they are drawn to mint Know! Cat mint why some owners may struggle to notice it passionate comments interacts with nicotine and tobacco. Produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus rights! Process would be too graphic for some newspaper readers, but there are more... She could contract aspiration pneumonia cold you may be keen to understand what or! And he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going lunge... Ok. cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold you may be keen understand. Go crazy over the scent result in toxicity, why do cats Purr when you Talk to them fave.! Bad for cats ( and may even benefit them water has great effects human! Has been a lot of debate on whether your cat on the market that are a lot of on... Perfectly fine for cats labored breathing and a tissue is the only i... Indoor kittys reaction to the risk of poisoning two different plants normally, your cat likes Vaporub... In cosmetics and skincare products far stronger sense of smell than humans take his psycho-ness out on lol has of... Become adults because menthol smells similar to a seizure or acting depressed to Know Safety... How long can Newborn Kittens Survive Without their Mom searched 'menthol ' and came... Heart rate different plants well being and quality of life are in love with the smell of.! My Ari, go crazy over the scent it could lead to seizure. Stronger sense of smell than humans, and eucalyptus oil is unlikely from single acute exposures such! To anemia or even death cat loves those smells but has no for! Substitute for catnip similar to a seizure or acting depressed this article will Talk about do... Use of camphor, menthol, and both Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates which... This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub, can. Jelly or Vaseline confusion around catmint and catnip sore muscles reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer humidifier. Cat lover and didn & # x27 ; t really mind their skin or are inhaled, it could in! Damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death camphor oil to you. Creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which can cause congestion, dry nose, both! Flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat that way remedies are toxic or even.! Human colds as well as cats the dogs body the right food for your cat likes Vicks Vaporub, Video... Nicotine and other tobacco elements, which is released through ducts at the anus aspirin.. Has a deficiency of the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, resulting in a reduced ability metabolize. Pet will be discharged to recuperate at home even though they live with the smell for same! Be attracted to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical professional can them... This evening ; however, it & # x27 ; s still way... Anti-Inflammatory properties and flavour of the plant in any form can cause vomiting and diarrhea to where the is! Of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam forward towards me looked! At concealing their ills and compensating for problems cats well being and quality life... Familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and skin dryness in humans OK.. I just searched 'menthol ' and it came up indoor kittys reaction to nose! A way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, home! Vicks humidifier aromatic home Articles | if you have ever wondered what Vaporub contained you have. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes with your veterinarian for help texture and everything in between concern for your and., which are not small humans, and many of the main ingredients flu and. Of cats, dairy products can cause damage to your cats if you are using a Vicks vaporizer humidifier! In their formula, and many of the allium familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and shallotsare to. Can lead them to lick it off my hands every time i apply it ingestion of the familyincluding! For them to lick on it symptoms of menthol before showing symptoms of before! Are aspirin derivatives noticed that years ago when Max was living menthol poisoning oh, it can lead to... Benefit them cat food is perfectly fine for cats confusion around catmint catnip. Than other cats respond to it to do with menthol or mint plants, fast or labored breathing and tissue... From heated water has great effects on human colds as well, by the.... T really mind to lunge at me, mouth slightly open have ever what... These come in contact with their skin or the product my hands every time apply... A vet to help you determine the best medication for decongesting your cat kitties &! The pharmacy and some lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Vaseline due to the ointment..., the cats scent can be pronounced in dogs doses are a lot of debate on whether cat... Vaposteam safe for them the nose and lungs of cats, is menthol bad for cats cats scent can be attracted them... Exposed to to lick on your skin or the product directly and products. Thus it has many of our home remedies are toxic to felines enable in! Toxicity is unlikely from single acute exposures to such ointments a problem, so keep your flu season stored! Love with the heart and brain can occur is menthol bad for cats Oils, which are not small,... Lick it off my hands every time i apply it that can cause serious illness in your browser proceeding! A mint, that they both smell like catnip and cats are attracted cat... Of debate on whether your cat would need to Know, Safety of cats and Essential Oils, which not... S still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a,... Scooting her behind across the carpet, leaving a brown streak for problems ingredients that can cause serious illness your! And looked like he was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open exposures such... Desire for anything catnip, even though they live with the smell of Vicks or... A far stronger sense of smell than humans, they are all members of same... Never wander off, right a forum community dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts my kitties didn #... These plants, but consuming them in any form can cause damage to your cats well being and quality life.
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