Wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint and mint. I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. Therefore, there is a theoretical risk of increased toxicity to cats, though this is very much less of an issue with dogs. This may be for good reason, as ingesting mint and its relatives can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Customer: is camphor, eucalyptus, menthol harmful to cats? . An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers! Behavior marking, the cat's smell can be spread by rolling on the floor. They are well aware of the toxicity of these plants and stay away from them. A: Menthol is derived from mint leaves, and many cats have a gene that attracts them to mint. 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. There is often some confusion around catmint and catnip. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Unfortunately Bob Marleys statement that herb is the healing of a nation is not inclusive of cats. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. You can also check out ASPCA's complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) If you feel the urge to give your cat a food treat, then give them one thats actually made for cats, and in moderation. Experts Weigh In, Are Black Cats More Vocal? This herb is said to help support good immune health in cats. I have had a toner with high amount of alcohol and toner in it (Clinique sent me as a sample), and to me it didn't cause any irritation but I only used it once a week or . Your cat recognizes and is drawn to the similarities between the two herbs. So, now you have learned how this may happen in these circumstances. Cats like menthol because they are likely to confuse it with another herb from the mint family: catnip! Dr. Susan : Coconut oil is very fattening, so I would not recommend using this long term. So why is camphor in Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats? All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. It may be confusing if your cat catches a cold when they stay in all the time, right? However, dogs hate its strong scent. So, even though they live with the smell it is not safe for them to lick on it. Fat trimmings can also causepancreatitisin cats. Excess Vicks vaposteam poisoning can have adverse effects on a cat. Redhaired103 6 yr. ago. Some individuals believe that cats are inherently crazy. Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause issues. | Powered by WordPress. There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. So if your cat can't stay away from Vicks vaporub, try using catnip instead. Find out which herbs are safe for cats (and may even benefit them! Essential oils can pose a toxic risk to household pets, especially to cats. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. Normally, this occurs with each bowel movement as a scent signal for other dogs. If it is applied to their skin or injected it can lead to chemical burns or other unwanted toxic effects. Extreme Cat Poop Problem Shocking Find PLEASE HELP, Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios: The Ultimate Comparison, Are burritos from Mexico? Call your veterinarian for specific advice; in some cases, small quantities are not likely to be a problem, but larger quantities may require you to take her in to see your veterinarian. There's still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home. Arnica is one of the most popular homeopathic remedies used - in both humans and animals. Because of this, cat owners must exercise extreme caution and avoid exposing their cat to the actual ointment, as some can be harmful to cats. PetMD reports that as a natural cortisone, licorice root can be used to soothe itchy kitties with allergies, endocrine and digestive issues, as well as respiratory problems like colds, since it soothes mucus membranes.. As you can see, cats are naturally attracted to menthol. 1 Menthol can change the way the brain registers the sensations of taste and 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. 5 A) and food consumption (Fig. ASPCA states that mint is toxic to cats. However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. The methol in Vicks can be breathed in, if in small doses. This herb is used topically for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe pain. This can pose a risk for aspiration and may become a choking hazard, particularly in those pets that may be more susceptible to aspiration. A bland diet may also be suggested to help heal the mucus membranes of the cat. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are derivatives of aspirin. Cats can not only get drunk, but it can also easily cause severe liver and brain damage. Do cats like cat mint? Menthol can also be produced in a lab. Dirty litter box If you want to get rid of cats, one of the first things you should do is make sure your garden doesnt have any mint (or catnip) plants. I took her to the veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two. There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. If your cat inhales such a smell in a large quantity, it can irritate their skin and make them nauseous. He started absolutely freaking out! No, inhaling menthol vapor is not considered bad for cats. And Mint is in the same family as catnip and catmint. The two herbs share many similar attributes that your cat recognizes and is drawn to. The stems, leaves, and flowers of the mint contain high contents of essential oils, which are not safe for cats. 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. However, menthol gavage clearly relieved the unpleasant sensation caused by acid treatment, as those mice showed an increase in both body weight (Fig. Catnip is safe for cats to consume, and they will be so distracted by their favorite treat that they will hopefully avoid Vicks vaporubin the future. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? This article will talk about why do cats like menthol and is it safe for them. If you suspect your cat has camphor poisoning, rush them to the vet immediately. Mint, wintergreen, and menthol More smells cats hate include mint and strong mint-related odors, such as wintergreen and menthol. The theory is that they relate the smell to catnip. These toxins then build up in your cat's system and cause damage. Cough severity in some individuals may be negatively influenced by the amount of menthol consumed via cough drops. Most cats react to menthol. Imagine having lungs and sinuses like a car, much more sensitive than humans'. 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. 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. Your indoor kittys reaction to the great outdoors might be curiosity, confusion, or fright. 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. If you use Vicks VapoRub for a cold, or something else, you may wonder if it is OK to use it around your cat. The greatest concern with menthol exposure in cats is if the substance is ingested. Believe it or not, veterinarians sometimes suggest using witch hazel to treat feline acne. Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. 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. It helps us breathe better and recover faster from the sniffles. So, it is understandable if you find yourself wondering, Is Vicks vaporizer safe for cats and dogs?. Just like poisoning in humans, the key to reacting to poisoning in your pet is to act fast. 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, any sugary or flavored yogurts are better avoided. Basil, tea tree, oregano, and clove are all safe for your cat. You will often find menthol in cleansers and washes designed for acne or other painful skin . If youre at work when the incident happens, hours could pass before you realize your cat is hurt or missing. And, for that reason, it is best to keep it away from cats. 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. Ingesting enough of this herb can cause photosensitization in pets (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis). Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy over. Site Help | She may dart away into trafficor cower under a bush when a strange dog approaches. It is taken from Camphor trees, hence the reason its called camphor. Also, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out of paws reach! Menthol could be bad for cats if ingested in large quantities. Their bodies no longer produce enough lactase to digest milkespecially cows milk. Always consult a licensed veterinarian if you have any health or behavior concerns about your pets. If a cat likes a smell, it can become obsessive. Can you just give the catnip like straight out of the bag to them ..? It has potential toxic effects and . If your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be wondering if it has cat flu. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. ZooAwesome should not be considered as an alternative to professional vet advice. Always supervise the amount of loose catnip or catnip buds your cat is exposed to. These devices typically have a negative connotation attached but, in this context, for clearing congestion, it is a different circumstance. Dr. Susan : You can also try an antihistamine . I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. 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. We first noticed that years ago when Max was living. I'm not sure, I've always put it in something. As long as no vital organs are severely damaged, your pet will be discharged to recuperate at home. Certain scents that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. None of my other cats respond to it that way. My Tyler loves anise pizzelles. You don't have to worry about hurting your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. Its in all forms of chocolate, and most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Menthol is made from a mint, just as catnip is. Contact her at, Print Headline: Felines have attraction to menthol, mint leaves. You may find, in time, it searches for the catnip before thinking about your Vicks. This HealthHearty write-up lists out the uses, benefits, and side effects of menthol. I hope you enjoy any product or service that I recommend. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Whenever I apply a menthol skin product, Nala rubs up against me, licks my skin and follows me around, not leaving me alone. Catnip is a perennial herb from the mint family Labiatae. 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. If you have ever been sick with a cold or flu as a kid you may remember your mom applying this to your chest. They are mysterious. Benzocaine most often causes gastrointestinal upset; however, benzocaine is metabolized into compounds which are capable of causing methemoglobinemia at high doses. Fortunately, menthol is safe at the small doses Nala ingests when she licks your skin. Cats have a far stronger sense of smell than humans. (Not-so-fun-fact: There is no good way toget rid of heartworms in cats, and infections can be fatal.). Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. To keep the great cats entertained, many zoos apply Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures. Ylang-ylang. Menthol topical side effects. One thing you can try, if your cat keeps messing with your VapoRub, is to offer some catnip instead to distract it from it. He started rubbing his face all over my couch like a psycho, rolling around, and swatting at me, and trying to nibble my hand. Valerian is a great option for your indoor cat garden. with being understanding, but when she attacked my husband one night, and he is ticklish, I was laughing so hard, I couldn't even help him! Being a local anesthetic, benzocaine will numb the throat when swallowed, or the mouth if chewed. Required fields are marked *. Why bother with a flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat? But is camphor in Vicks vaposteam safe for cats? Stop using menthol topical and call your doctor at once if you have: severe burning, stinging, redness, or irritation . The sacs are lined by glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus. When clicking a link here and buying, we may be able to make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. To make sure we are on the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is. A: Menthol is derived from mint leaves, and many cats have a gene that attracts them to mint. They have their own strange behaviors that no one can understand, but one that is particularly intriguing is why cats would go crazy over menthol. ( Not-so-fun-fact: there is no good way toget rid of heartworms in cats &! You enjoy any product or service that i recommend 1 menthol can change the way the brain the... Especially to cats is menthol bad for cats immune health in cats is if the substance is ingested the of! 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