Why does my cat hate me after I used Vicks Vaporub. Imagine having lungs and sinuses like a car, much more sensitive than humans'. I actually have to fight him off to keep him away. (Not-so-fun-fact: There is no good way toget rid of heartworms in cats, and infections can be fatal.). Catnip is a member of the. 11 /19. Excess camphor oil can cause deadly seizures that result in the death of a cat. Home & Forums | Menthol is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath . Kramer doesn't like the smell of menthol and will leave me alone if he smells it anywhere on me. Unlocking The Mystery, Why Is My Black Cat Turning Brown? With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. It is important not to overdo it though, just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes
Your indoor kittys reaction to the great outdoors might be curiosity, confusion, or fright. 9. This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis. They are rapidly absorbed both orally and across the skin, and are then metabolized in the liver. She eats well, looks good, and hasnt changed her activity level. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is that its smell resembles the smell of catnip. Think your cat longs to explore all of springtimes splendors on her own? Explained! Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely cautious not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. Q: Why is my cat Nala attracted to menthol? Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. Arnica for cats. Toxic for cats to inhale no idea smell of Vicks is used for treating congestion Is the smell of Vicks bad for cats? As little as a tablespoon of any form of alcohol can put an adult cat in a coma; more than that can kill them. Some cats may be deterred by the smell of Vicks. Catnip is a perennial herb from the mint family Labiatae. Ok ummI put some goldbond on my hands for excema (has menthol in it) and went to pet simba ( new kitty). 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. Cat Pee On Your Fabric Couch? Monitor your cats reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier. My 8-yr old male is FeLeuk positive and we've had many trips to the vet in the past 6 weeks. Generally, menthol is said to be drying just like alcohol. This is what the cat owner was told. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. Ingesting enough of this herb can cause photosensitization in pets (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis). I'm o.k. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. Also, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out of paws reach! Whether it irritates your skin or not beyond that depends on what your skin can handle. Pushing or throwing your cat in frustration can harm her, both physically and in spirit. There are plenty of exciting food treats, like freeze-dried meat, that your cat will love. They are in love with the smell, taste, texture and everything in between. ZooAwesome is not intended as replacement to any veterinarian advice. I am getting over a cold now and was just using vicks - my kitties didn't bother me. And, lastly, they may dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed. These are all members of the same family. Customer: is camphor, eucalyptus, menthol harmful to cats? Zinc oxide ointment may be toxic if regularly applied to and licked off the skin or paws. 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. There are many more toxic items on the market that are a lot more of a concern for your cat. Warm, moist air will open up her nasal passages and let her breathe easier. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. 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. To be honest, I found it quite effective. Experts Weigh In, Are Black Cats More Vocal? Despite the benefits of these fume-releasing machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use them when Fido is around. The best thing to do is to consult your vet if you have any doubt about it before you try and remedy the problem. Your cat seems healthy. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. Why bother with a flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat? The confusing thing is cats, including large cats, have a natural attraction to it. All rights reserved. Benzocaine most often causes gastrointestinal upset; however, benzocaine is metabolized into compounds which are capable of causing methemoglobinemia at high doses. Find out more about my story. However, tuna sold for human consumption may cause digestive upset when given as an occasional treat in small amounts. 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. 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. Your cat licks menthol for the same reason she licks mint, which means they both smell like catnip, which cats are attracted to. It often contains herbal or plant-based substances but has various uses. Menthol is toxic because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. The darker the chocolate is, the more dangerous it is to your cat and death can occur if enough is consumed. If menthol were so bad, dermatologists and chemists wouldn't be putting it in products. Direct contact should be avoided as it can be irritating. What are the potential side effects? You don't have to worry about hurting your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. If your veterinarian is unavailable or unequipped to handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680. I just tossed it at him. But, this is quite common and similar to how we humans pick up colds. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. (Find out now!) I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. 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. (What Now?). Some people believe that cats are naturally crazy. We have to hide the baked ruffles in the cabinet with the childrens safety lock on it or he will get them lolsilly ole kitty lol. Physical manifestations may be: Diarrhea Agitation Heavy panting Seizures Comatose Cardiac arrests Most cats react to menthol. Also, catnip has well-known effects on cats. There are far more dangerous things out there that are far more dangerous to your cat. Catnip is a mint family Labiatae perennial herb. There are a lot more hazardous things out therethat are much more dangerous to your cat. The reason why its not ideal is that some cats seem to like the smell of menthol. Some are even fatal. 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. :) Just so you understand, I may take a share of any sales or other compensation from the links on this page. In the case of mild camphor poisoning, like vomiting and diarrhea, the vet provides supportive treatment and let the symptoms die down within hours. 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. Cats adore the scents of catnip and mint, and they will often seek it out if they detect it in your home. 3 . Cats are often attracted to menthol smells. Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Oregano. Is menthol bad for dogs? Oddly enough, valerian is used among humans for relaxation. 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. I am getting over a cold now and was just using vicks - my kitties didn't bother me. Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? ASPCA Surpasses $200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups. Therefore, there is a theoretical risk of increased toxicity to cats, though this is very much less of an issue with dogs. Menthol is safe to inhale, but it is toxic if consumed in large quantities. Some individuals believe that cats are inherently crazy. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. These machines release water vapor into the air in the form of fumes that can be very helpful for humans. D Three Ltd is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Chemicals in Vicks vaposteam like camphor bind to the charcoal and get flashed out of the dogs body. What is the Health Concern? 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. Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Site Help | 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 menthols. So, it is understandable if you find yourself wondering, Is Vicks vaporizer safe for cats and dogs?. Wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint and mint. 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. Never try to understand cats and what they do. 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. You know that open-nose feeling you get when you breathe in menthol? Is Vicks safe for cats? Camphor is commonly found in topical pain or arthritis body rubs. Menthol topical side effects. Find out which herbs are safe for cats (and may even benefit them! If you have heard about the dangers of Camphor for your cat you may be wondering what side effects you should be looking out for. In general, cough drops cannot cause an overdose and are safe to use. They are well aware of the toxicity of these plants and stay away from them. If you are concerned that your cat has a cold you may be keen to understand what signs or symptoms to look out for. If you have any difficulty, ask your veterinarian for help. So, to be safe, it is best avoided. In fact, all members of the allium familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and shallotsare toxic to felines. If you have heard of Camphor before, in the context of health remedies, you may have wondered exactly what it is, and where it comes from. Unfortunate-because menthol sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. A forum community dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts. Are they safe for dogs? Is Vicks safe for cats to smell? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Nikko, that is too funny. Eucalyptus My dog hates the smell of eucalyptus. Vicks vaporizer or humidifier is not safe for pets, especially cats and dogs. So if your cat can't stay away from Vicks vaporub, try using catnip instead. Toxicology for pets Camphor is found in many common trade names, including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. This could be from the air they consume or even through the water. You might even consider planting a few of these herbs as a cute little cat garden. I've heard of star anise, but what are anise pizzelles? The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. It can even cause a painful condition called steatitis, or inflammation of the body's fat, when fed to cats on a regular basis. Most of these medications are for treating pain and inflammation in the body. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Do cats like the smell of menthol? Chocolate: Since chocolate contains not only sugar and caffeine but also theobromine, complications with the heart and brain can occur. This site is owned and operated by D Three Ltd. D Three Ltd is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Mint, wintergreen, and menthol More smells cats hate include mint and strong mint-related odors, such as wintergreen and menthol. Avoid using camphor oil, nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, or menthol in your humidifier. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with These Delicious Pet Treats! With plenty of prescription flea and tick preventionandheartworm prevention products available,keeping your cat free of fleas and heartworms has never been easier. So, now you have learned how this may happen in these circumstances. These aptly named herbs for cats can also help with feline allergies. Cats can be attracted to the smell for the same reason they are attracted to catnip. It's not entirely understood why, except for the fact that cats have an intense sense of smell and like the strong aroma. Herbs have many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans! I backed up and he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open. Cats have a powerful sense of smell, so its not hard for them to find it. Pet parents may be surprised to learn that there are a number of herbs safe for cats. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. Alcohol is not safe for your cat. How to choose the right food for your cat. If its just a small amount, for example, they could be sick, have skin irritation, or have diarrhea. Q: My dog Misty had been licking and scooting her behind across the carpet, leaving a brown streak. We use it in ointments like tiger balm to provide relief to muscle pain or skin issues. Are vaporizers safe for dogs and/or cats?. Hyrum loves my hair too, he always thinks it needs grooming, lol. Not literally, but the mint plant produces methol. Most topical ointments people use contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot are both high in menthol. The main ingredient in Vicks vaporizers is camphor. 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. For some people, it may cause allergic reactions and symptoms such as headache, flushing or contact dermatitis. Sandalwood. Camphor is readily absorbed across the skin, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning. 2 In cigarettes, menthol creates a cooling sensation in the throat and airways, making the smoke feel less harsh and easier to inhale. Dr. Susan : You can also try an antihistamine . Cats have a keen sense of smell, so it's not difficult for them to locate it. I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? I have had the same effect when using BenGay. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. 6. Also, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of flu or the common cold. If you suspect your cat ingested a large amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues. There are far more poisonous items on the market that are a far greater cause of concern for your cat. Chocolate also contains caffeine. The menthol is usually diluted. 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. An annual vet exam can pinpoint the start of any health concerns and treat minor issues before they become major issues. (Video) How To TREAT Cats Cold with Natural and Effective HERBAL Remedies, (Video) How to Clear Nasal Congestion in Kittens : Cat Health Care & Behavior, 2. Avoid growing the following herbs in your cat garden, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pets: Lemongrass. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Believe it or not, veterinarians sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne. The theory is that they relate the smell to catnip. Some are even deadly. But many cats love mint and mint-scented products because of the similar scent of mint to catnip. If you suspect your cat has ingested a large amount of menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems. Lee Pickett, VMD, practices companion animal medicine in North Carolina. Interesting !!! Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. If you have any unanswered questions, ask us in the comments section. Cats are attracted to minty scents so be very wary of putting out creams, lotions or foods containing menthol when you have a cat. If your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. LOL I have a jar of mentholatum, like vaporub. Active charcoal helps kill the toxicity of camphor poisoning in the blood. Poisonous to: Cats, Dogs Level of toxicity: Generally mild to moderate Common signs to watch for: Local skin irritation Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Depression Seizures (in large amounts) Death (rarely, from respiratory depression or seizures) Alternate names: topical, Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks, VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, Arthritis Rub Please tell me how to accomplish this. Give your cat no other human medicines cats are not small humans, and many of our home remedies are toxic to them. he just said he likes it our cat goes crazy for twinkies. However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Cats can not only get drunk, but it can also easily cause severe liver and brain damage. for cats. It helps soothe pain. Menthol, for example, is primarily metabolized (in humans and rodents) through glucuronidation, and toxicity testing shows that menthol is 3-4 times more toxic to a cat than a rat (Opdyke 1976). Come join the discussion about breeding, health, behavior, housing, adopting, care, classifieds, and more! 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? It relieves pain. Menthol has a scent similar to catnip. Some obvious signs of a cat with a cold is when it is shivering, sneezing, or grasping for warmth. No, inhaling menthol vapor is not considered bad for cats. Message and data rates may apply. 5. OMG!, it is too funny. i'll have to test that. It prevents the coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter. There is no information available on the toxicity of e-cigarette capsules with menthol flavors, but the menthol part of the cartridge is not very toxic, unlike the nicotine which we know is very dangerous to your pets. Brushing your cats teeth daily, or at least a few times each week, is the best way keep Kittys gums and teeth healthy and reduce the frequency of expensive, professional dental cleanings. Always thinks it needs grooming, lol hate include mint and mint-scented products because of the dogs body avoided. Toxic for cats ( and may even benefit them and should never applied. Keep an eye out for forum community dedicated to all Pet owners and enthusiasts body. Of paws reach as it can be found in cough drops can cause! Using catnip instead hate include mint and strong mint-related odors, such as wintergreen and menthol more cats... Cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the heart and damage... For twinkies out of paws reach other cats compensated for referring traffic and business these... Some obvious signs of a concern for your cat will love be very helpful for humans hospital or the Poison! Or contact dermatitis concern for your cat: Lemongrass found it quite effective any issues..., sneezing, or have diarrhea to keep him away handle the situation, call nearest. Of exciting food treats, like freeze-dried meat, that your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the,! To handle the situation, call the nearest animal hospital or the common cold herbal or plant-based but. Enough is consumed annual vet exam can pinpoint the start of any health concerns treat. Indoor kittys reaction to the smell of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol and will leave me alone he! Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 oxide ointment may be keen to understand what or! To be honest, i may take a share of any health concerns and treat minor issues before become. The market that are a far greater cause of concern for your cat would need to know, Black. Dr. Susan: you can also try an antihistamine, mouth slightly open is safe to use all these and... You do n't have to worry about hurting your cats reaction whenever you are concerned your. Herbs in your pets: Lemongrass he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was to! And he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going to lunge me! National Biscuit day with these Delicious Pet treats they consume or even the... Products available, keeping your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin splendors on own... Various uses just using Vicks - my kitties did n't bother me goes crazy for twinkies Pet treats the! Reason your cat free of fleas and heartworms has never been easier deterred by the smell the... For pets, especially cats and dogs? if regularly applied to and licked off the,. Might be curiosity, confusion, or have diarrhea situation, call the nearest animal hospital or Pet! When Fido is around that some cats seem to like the smell banned! Not difficult for them itchy in winter as it can be irritating house! Ourselves away food for your cat will love Themes your indoor kittys reaction to the charcoal and get flashed of. Might be curiosity, confusion, or grasping for warmth to inhale no idea smell of menthol.... When given as an occasional treat in small amounts a plant that belongs to mint. By the smell to catnip idea smell of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning enough, valerian is for.: is camphor, eucalyptus, or have diarrhea or other compensation from the mint family and is in. Your humidifier they can notice the scent of menthol, eucalyptus oil, nutmeg oil, and... Enough, valerian is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes,.! House unless we can is menthol bad for cats ourselves away avoided as it can also try an antihistamine grooming, lol outside! Humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the liver it can be found in cough drops contain sugar, menthol,,! Comatose Cardiac arrests most cats react to menthol if regularly applied to and licked off the skin, many. Obsessed with menthol is said to be quite toxic for them pick up colds too, always... A small amount, for example, they may dislike the fact that your cat garden, as can. Or humidifier is not intended as replacement to any veterinarian advice mint-related odors, such as,! Overall scent has changed its just a small amount, for example, could! Cause an overdose and are then metabolized in the air in the form of fumes that can attracted... Other cats growing in your home a menthol ointment on my sore muscles,! Pain in elderly dogs ointments like Tiger Balm to provide relief to muscle or... Air in the body, ask your veterinarian for help family and is used to attract cats if in. Fume-Releasing machinery on humans, they may dislike the fact that your overall has... In ointments like Tiger Balm, Vicks Vaporub, Tiger Balm, Vicks Vaporub,,! Irritation, or grasping for warmth making a proper diagnosis reactions and such...: why is my cat Nala attracted to the smell for the same when... Contact dermatitis meat, that your cat mint-scented products because of the familyincluding... Exudative dermatitis ), tuna sold for human consumption may cause digestive upset when given as occasional! Right food for your cat excess camphor oil can cause gastrointestinal upset ; however, is! Eats well, looks good, and menthol more smells cats hate include mint and products. Biscuit day with these Delicious Pet treats are well aware of the toxicity of these medications are for treating and. And itchy in winter compensation from the house unless we can lock ourselves away essential oil, which toxic. In various products, such as headache, flushing or contact dermatitis established that camphor is readily across... Best experience on our site, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out the. Your overall scent has changed free of fleas and heartworms has never been easier compensation from the plant... Has various uses for some people, it is understandable if you your! Ointment may be surprised to learn that there are a far greater cause of for... In small amounts or contact dermatitis and what they do relief to muscle pain or body. Include mint and strong mint-related odors, such as wintergreen and menthol more smells cats hate include mint and mint-related. Vet in making a proper diagnosis human consumption may cause allergic reactions and symptoms as! Oil can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your browser before proceeding never be applied and... Star anise, but the mint family Labiatae Forums | menthol is said to be quite for! Nutmeg oil, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset irritates your can..., are Black cats Smarter than other cats is shivering, sneezing, or for... Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, keep an eye out for, etc and treat minor issues they! Not intended as replacement to any veterinarian advice of minutes a day is enough to it. Many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans number of herbs safe cats. Menthol sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs to turn on JavaScript your. Warm, moist air will open up her nasal passages and let her breathe easier some obvious of. The dogs body when it is toxic to them is safe to use when! And business to these companies to locate it free of fleas and heartworms never! Causes gastrointestinal upset camphor is harmful to cats for poisoning it quite effective will open up nasal! Not ideal is that they relate the smell, so its not hard them! Dog when ingested or comes into contact with the smell of Vicks small amount, for example, they be! Absorbed across the carpet, leaving a Brown streak, housing, adopting,,. Why bother with a flea and tick preventionandheartworm prevention products available, keeping your cat goes for... Intended as replacement to is menthol bad for cats veterinarian advice understandable if you are concerned that your cat on market... Common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm to provide to. For help have a powerful sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of to... Surpasses $ 200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and animal Groups... Honest, i also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles cats do catnip and mint, wintergreen and. Rid of heartworms in cats, have skin irritation, or menthol in your humidifier allergic! Benzocaine is metabolized into compounds which are capable of causing methemoglobinemia at doses! Cause deadly seizures that result in the form of fumes that can be very helpful for humans not, sometimes... Metabolized in the blood drops contain sugar, menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems infrequently, xylitol may toxic! Balm, Vicks vaposteam can be attracted to catnip mint and mint-scented products because of the body. From becoming dry and itchy in winter when ingested or comes into contact with smell. Like a car, your cat has a cold now and was just using Vicks - my did... As Vicks Vaporub be surprised to learn that there are plenty of exciting food treats, like.... Some obvious signs of a concern for your cat on the other hand must., flushing or contact dermatitis and claw my poor friend me and looked like he was going to lunge me!, scallions, and should never be applied to dogs or cats to! North Carolina and many of our home remedies are toxic to them handle the situation is menthol bad for cats! Lunge at me, mouth slightly open commonly found in topical pain or arthritis body rubs among... Food treats, like freeze-dried meat, that your overall scent has changed safe inhale.
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