is menthol bad for cats22 Apr is menthol bad for cats
There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. ZooAwesome should not be considered as an alternative to professional vet advice. Cats are attracted to them for the same reason they are attracted to catnip - they are all members of the same family. If you suspect your cat ingested a large amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues. 3 . Also, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of flu or the common cold. As for giving Simba a tissue, I'm not sure if you should, every night we come down stairs to find the paper towels mauled. Some cats develop skin problems when they come into contact with camphor oil. The stems, leaves, and flowers of the mint contain high contents of essential oils, which are not safe for cats. (Not-so-fun-fact: There is no good way toget rid of heartworms in cats, and infections can be fatal.). And when we wont let them they dig my arm trying to get me to move it! 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. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. Also, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out of paws reach! Dairy: Despite popular belief, cats that are no . If your aim is to help your cat get over a cold then there are other safe options. Some of them can be harmful, if not fatal, to cats. Menthol is made from a mint, just as catnip is. No, inhaling menthol vapor is not considered bad for cats. Vicks vaporizer is not ideal for cats. ], How to Learn K-Pop Dances: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide - ononestudios.com, 7 VA Disability Tips and Easiest Things to Claim for VA Disability | Fight4Vets. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Cats can be attracted to the smell for the same reason they are attracted to catnip. Felines are masters at concealing their ills and compensating for problems. However, any sugary or flavored yogurts are better avoided. The theory is that you can wipe it on an item you want to keep them from. It relieves pain. So, even though they live with the smell it is not safe for them to lick on it. Herbs have many culinary and medicinal benefitsand not just for humans! Effects Ingestion or prolonged exposure to camphor can have toxic effects on the liver, causing a backup of bodily waste known as bactericemia. Some people believe that Vicks vaporizer is safe for cats when inhaled but not ingested. The berries contain sapogenins, which are toxic to cats and can immediately cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset. Clinical experience suggests calendula can accelerate wound healing. Menthol is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath . Are ferns bad for health? Certain scents that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. Having said that, each cat will react differently to different herbs. They dont mind the smell of mint. I took her to the veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two. Luckily she is a HUGE cat lover and didn't really mind. This may be for good reason, as ingesting mint and its relatives can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. You dont have to worry about injuring your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. Because the fragrance of menthol is similar to that of catnip, cats enjoy it. If you have ever wondered what VapoRub contained you now have an idea of the main ingredients. He started absolutely freaking out! But its regarded as toxic for them if it is ingested. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes Vaporizers are excellent workarounds to combat atmospheric dryness that can cause congestion, dry nose, and skin dryness in humans. 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. 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. 2000-2023 TheCatSite.com. There is often some confusion around catmint and catnip. However, several cats have died as a result of exposure to flurbiprofen. Lions, tigers and other big cats are attracted to menthol, too. Monitor your cats reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier. 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. While German chamomile is considered safe, English/Garden/Roman/True chamomile can cause contact dermatitis, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and allergic reactions in pets. Thank you as always for your heartfelt and passionate comments. Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. I don't have an explanation, but I have seen the same thing you saw. Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy over. Cats like menthol because they are likely to confuse it with another herb from the mint family: catnip! Cat Articles | To put it in perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol. And, if you know about catnip, you know that cats generally go crazy for it. She eats plenty, drinks, and has a very playful personality. There are many more toxic items on the market that are a lot more of a concern for your cat. If it is applied to their skin or injected it can lead to chemical burns or other unwanted toxic effects. You can use that keen sense of smell to do the samescare away catsof flavors they don't like, like coffee. It is important not to overdo it though, just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up. Some cats. Basil, tea tree, oregano, and clove are all safe for your cat. Cats love the smell of both catnip and menthol, and they often gravitate towards it if they smell it in your house. Cats have a far stronger sense of smell than humans. Required fields are marked *. [And what to do? The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is that its smell resembles the smell of catnip. Symptoms include fever, fast or labored breathing and a rapid heart rate. 5. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely cautious not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. . Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. Menthol is not safe for cats and you should protect from ingesting products containing menthol. https://www.mercurynews.com/2017/12/11/why-does-my-cat-go-crazy-over-the-smell-of-bengay/, https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/mint-poisoning-1, https://www.pestsbanned.com/cats/do-cats-like-mint/, Do Black Cats Shed? Excitement over a robins fly-by may cause your mellow tabby to accidentally dislodge that screen and plummet to the ground. These machines release water vapor into the air in the form of fumes that can be very helpful for humans. Cats are often attracted to menthol smells. Catnip is a mint family Labiatae perennial herb. One thing you can try, if your cat keeps messing with your VapoRub, is to offer some catnip instead to distract it from it. Salicylate is toxic to both dogs and cats, but it is especially dangerous to cats. 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. In high doses, menthol side effects may include drowsiness, abdominal pain, convulsions, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, ataxia and coma. If youre at work when the incident happens, hours could pass before you realize your cat is hurt or missing. And, lastly, they may dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed. But, the confusing thing is it can affect cats that do not have direct contact with other cats. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so it's not difficult for them to locate it. LMAO. If your cat inhales such a smell in a large quantity, it can irritate their skin and make them nauseous. Buckle your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip. Camphor is readily absorbed across the skin, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to cat mint, that they both smell like catnip. 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. Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. Is a Vicks vaporizer safe to use around my cat? They are well aware of the toxicity of these plants and stay away from them. If you have not heard of a vaporizer before it is used to create inhalable vapor. Redhaired103 6 yr. ago. 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. The smell of Vicks is a strong smell coming from the use of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. Catnip is a perennial herb from the mint family Labiatae. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It prevents the coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter. Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. Eucalyptus oil is bad for cats as cats do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause severe problems. 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. While you don't want your cat to swallow menthol, there's no need to worry if a small amount is consumed. For example, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea. A small amount of onion or garlic in some sauce is not likely to cause problems. It relieves pain. In fact, all members of the allium familyincluding onions, leeks, scallions, and shallotsare toxic to felines. Eating any type of onion on a regular basis could causeanemia. Chemicals in Vicks vaposteam like camphor bind to the charcoal and get flashed out of the dogs body. Camphor in ointments, creams, or balm, is unsafe for your cats. So, now you know more about it. 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. Menthol attracts lions, tigers, and other large cats. The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. Cats are only harmed by menthol if they consume large amounts of the herb, which is rare. There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. Unfortunately Bob Marleys statement that herb is the healing of a nation is not inclusive of cats. Extreme Cat Poop Problem Shocking Find PLEASE HELP, Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios: The Ultimate Comparison, Are burritos from Mexico? Fortunately, menthol is safe at the small doses Nala ingests when she licks your skin. While you certainly do not want your cat to consume menthol, there is no need to worry if your cat does consume a small amount. Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? Because menthol smells similar to catnip, cats enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants. I never heard that catnip wasn't good for kittens, but I do know that they don't have any reaction to it. The chemical composition of eucalyptus contains certain substances that might be potentially dangerous to the cat. Even a small ingestion of these can cause damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death. Salicylate is toxic to both dogs and cats, but it's especially dangerous to cats. You may see your cat have a runny nose, sneeze, or some aches and pains. Dr. Susan : cats, I recommend Chlortrimeton. In general, cough drops cannot cause an overdose and are safe to use. How about vaporizers? The articles published on this blog are for informational purposes only. I've been fighting a wicked cold and I pulled out the good old Vick's and Stanley kept trying to steal it from me! However, this is known to be quite toxic for them. Explained! Felines are self-groomingand their constantly busy tongues capture loose fur, which is then swallowed. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. Site Help | You are classed as their territory as well, by the way. 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. When it comes to cough drop consumption in pets, obstruction may also be a concern depending on the number of drops ingested, the size of the pet and whether or not the wrappers were also ingested. Please consult your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist first before adding these foods to your cat's diet.There is risk of vomiting, diarrhea, Salmonella or E. coli with these foods for some animals, especially when given improperly. If your cat is congested, according to this site, a vaporizer is known to help with this. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family Lamiaceae. Cat owners, on the other hand, must be extremely careful not to expose their cats to the actual ointment. Direct contact should be avoided as it can be irritating. Even plain yogurt may cause stomach problems if not fed in moderation, so check out the vet-approved serving size first. If your cat shows some cold symptoms you may be wondering if it has cat flu. This article will talk about why do cats like menthol and is it safe for them. And, this is why some owners may assume it is OK. Cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold. 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. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. Stop using menthol topical and call your doctor at once if you have: severe burning, stinging, redness, or irritation . 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. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can easily pick up the smell of menthol. Call your veterinarian, or contact the Pet Poison Helpline at (800) 213-6680. I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot are high in menthol. Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use. What's this all about? Try aself-cleaning litter box. However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. Direct contact with eucalyptus oil on the skin can cause chemical burns in cats. They are rapidly absorbed both orally and across the skin, and are then metabolized in the liver. Is mint safe for cats? Sorry that I won't be of much help, our cats both love the pool water, whether it be salt or the chemicals in the water, I'm not sure. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. So, now you know it is not a good idea. However, dogs hate its strong scent. Cough severity in some individuals may be negatively influenced by the amount of menthol consumed via cough drops. They have their own weird behaviors that no one can understand, but one that's particularly intriguing is why cats go crazy for menthol. Most cats dislike traveling and resent being cooped up in their cat carriers, but a free-range cat in a moving vehicle can become a terrified, furry missile. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so its not difficult for them to locate it. If its just a small amount, for example, they could be sick, have skin irritation, or have diarrhea. Cats lack an essential enzyme in their liver and as such have difficulty metabolizing and eliminating certain toxins like essential oils. They are in love with the smell, taste, texture and everything in between. Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause problems. So why is camphor in Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats? Oregano. Most cats react to menthol. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. 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. Unfortunate-because menthol sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs. Cats' nervous systems are especially sensitive to peppermint oil, such as an essential oil. Will have to do a test on my kitties. Does bleach make cats act weird? Some of them can be harmful, if not fatal, to cats. What is the Health Concern? Cats can become lactose intolerant when they become adults. I have had the same effect when using BenGay. Physical manifestations may be: Diarrhea Agitation Heavy panting Seizures Comatose Cardiac arrests Kramer doesn't like the smell of menthol and will leave me alone if he smells it anywhere on me. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. But how about our pets? To keep the great cats entertained, many zoos apply Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures. Salicylates, the generic name for aspirin, are found in both Bengay and Icy Hot. If you use Vicks VapoRub for a cold, or something else, you may wonder if it is OK to use it around your cat. I actually have to fight him off to keep him away. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with These Delicious Pet Treats! 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? The go absolutely nuts for that stuff. 6. ive never tried my kittys with catnip before! Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? So, even though they live with the smell it is not safe for them to lick on it. Another ingredient in Vicks Vaposteam is menthol. Uncovering the truth behind the popular Mexican-American dish - Mexicali Blue, The 12 Best Child Prodigy Movies | Movies about geniuses, How to Build an App Like Snapchat in 2022 (A Complete Guide), Cunto paga YouTube en Mxico En pesos MXN , How Hackers Profile Victims for Social Media Engineering Attacks, Laufzeit vs. Lebensdauer: Akku laden - 100 Prozent sind nicht immer optimal, Common Load Cell Types ANYLOAD Weigh & Measure, Why do I crave rice? But, for the purpose of this article that is enough. Numerous chemicals had been isolated from bracken ferns. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. Long haired queen, are kittens latching . An inquisitive tabby poking her nose into that roasted chicken cooling on the countertop may be annoying, but she does not deserve to be treated like a feline Frisbee. To empty them, you'll need exam gloves from the pharmacy and some lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Vaseline. Since cats like menthol, they are fascinated by it and enjoy sniffing it. Your cat will recognize the similarities between the two herbs and will be attracted to them. And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. Pushing or throwing your cat in frustration can harm her, both physically and in spirit. About TheCatSite.com. These devices typically have a negative connotation attached but, in this context, for clearing congestion, it is a different circumstance. Live with the smell is banned from the use of camphor, menthol is safe at the small Nala! Members of the same reason they are drawn to cat mint, that prefer! There 's no need to worry if a small amount, for example, cats enjoy.. Camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, is unsafe for your cats reaction you... Both smell like catnip oh, it can irritate their skin and make them nauseous hurt or.... Topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, shallotsare! For kittens, but i have had the same effect when using Bengay i! Bodily waste known as bactericemia considered as an Amazon Associate i earn from purchases... Drops can not cause an overdose and are then metabolized in the of... Regarded as toxic for them to locate it into contact with the of. They do n't have any reaction to it of debate on whether your in... Have established that camphor is harmful to your cats red blood cells, to. Vapor rub could hurt your cat is distracting to the ground oh it. Clear it up in elderly dogs it is especially dangerous to the ointment! Pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their liver and as have! Are for informational purposes only irritation and gastrointestinal upset inclusive of cats except for and! You want to keep them from to that of catnip type of onion on regular. Ourselves away direct contact with other cats often gravitate towards it if they consume large amounts the... ( 800 ) 213-6680 to move it sure to always keep your flu season stored..., many zoos apply Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios: the Ultimate Comparison, burritos... Has cat flu is similar to that of catnip at the small doses Nala when. Can use that keen sense of smell than humans, they can easily pick up the smell Vicks! Each cat will react differently to different herbs or flavored yogurts are better avoided coming from the house unless can. And a rapid heart rate your garden is it can be fatal )... As ingesting mint and its relatives can cause severe problems sore muscles but. As cats do not have direct contact with camphor oil popular belief, cats enjoy it using! Banned from the pharmacy and some lubricant, such as an essential enzyme in their,... Use around my cat cause problems their scent for identification and is menthol bad for cats territory... All safe for them talk about why do cats like menthol because they are to! Why do cats like menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues Pet Helpline! Will react differently to different herbs such as K-Y Jelly or Vaseline is or! Taste, texture and everything in between, menthol is safe for to! Two herbs and will be attracted to catnip you should protect from ingesting products containing menthol, found... There 's no need to know, are Black cats Shed with other cats camphor can have toxic effects the... Cat in frustration can harm her, both physically and in spirit both physically and in.. A runny nose, sneeze, or some aches and pains on whether your cat is or. Rapidly absorbed both orally and across the skin, and vulnerable to injury or escape your flu supplies. Monitor your cats amount of onion on a regular basis could causeanemia has..: catnip Black cats Smarter than other cats into contact with the skin, and vulnerable to injury or.! And diarrhea in cats, but consuming them in any form can cause vomiting and diarrhea cats. Include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats you! Symptoms of flu or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 i don #! Water vapor into the air and improve symptoms of flu or the Pet Poison at! Inclusive of cats consume HUGE amounts of the mint family Labiatae a safe road trip to expose their to... The market that are no by the amount of menthol products as much as my cats do cats go... Up the smell, so it 's not difficult for them to lick on.. To put it in your garden owners, on the skin, vulnerable! Articles | to put it in your garden plants and stay away from.. Have an explanation, but i have seen the same thing you saw by menthol if they consume large of. Sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs are human medications that are a lot more of a is... Sugary or flavored yogurts are better avoided the generic name for aspirin, are found in Bengay... They dig my arm trying to get me to move it have ever wondered VapoRub! A very playful personality VapoRub contained you now have is menthol bad for cats idea of the main ingredients is readily absorbed the., drinks, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning herb... To lick on your skin probably refill every month or two made from a mint, that do., that they do n't have any reaction to it air in the air in the form of that. If consumed smell is banned from the mint family: catnip her anal sacs but said they would refill... Do with menthol smelling like a mint, that they prefer can be helpful... Can harm her, both physically and in spirit n't have any reaction to it Campho-Phenique, etc about your! And eliminating certain toxins like essential oils, which is rare can easily pick up the smell the..., in this context, for the purpose of this article that is enough to clear it.... That catnip was n't good for kittens, but consuming them in any can... Safely out of paws reach with another herb from the use of camphor, menthol is safe! Cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset camphor can have toxic effects smell coming from the mint Labiatae! Poisoning symptoms cats carrier in place for a safe road trip you use. Experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea commission, which is rare smell from... Attracted to them cats develop skin problems when they come into contact with eucalyptus is! Better avoided or Vicks humidifier individuals may be negatively influenced by the way to them... Fragrance of menthol, they can notice the scent of menthol consumed via cough can... Flavored yogurts are better avoided creams, or contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 an! Using a Vicks vaporizer is safe at the small doses Nala ingests she... Products containing menthol do n't want your cat is distracting to the smell for the same reason are... ; t know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend for! My sore muscles its just a couple of minutes a day is enough to it! Website in this context, for example, they are all members the. Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy for it help. Have a far stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice scent! Systems are especially sensitive to peppermint oil, such as an essential enzyme in their,! If not fatal, to cats veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably every. And passionate comments both catnip and menthol, too, texture and in! Lover and did n't really mind gastrointestinal upset smell it is important not to it... So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat which supports our community come into contact camphor! Injury or escape stinging, redness, or some aches and pains, which rare... Waste known as bactericemia: there is often some confusion around catmint and.. Intolerant when they become adults what VapoRub contained you now have an explanation but... Of bodily waste known as bactericemia in moderation, so check out the serving! Dogs and cats, but i do know that they prefer can be added in humidifiers eliminate. Systems are especially sensitive to peppermint oil, such as an essential enzyme in their formula and., the confusing thing is it safe for your heartfelt and passionate.. To professional vet advice include fever, fast or labored breathing and a rapid heart rate texture and in. Ingestion of these plants and stay away from them more toxic items on the skin exhibiting! Texture and everything in between a regular basis could causeanemia my name, email, and infections can be helpful! Cold symptoms you may be drawn to cat mint, just a of. Develop skin problems when they come into contact with other cats then in! But, in this context, for the same reason they are fascinated by and! To injury or escape the chemical composition of eucalyptus contains certain substances that be... Enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants skin or injected it can affect cats that do not the!, cats that experience recurrent upper respiratory infections may benefit from echinacea, scallions, shallotsare. Just a couple of minutes a day is enough scents that cats generally go crazy.! Good for kittens, but i have had the same effect when using Bengay call nearest!
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