These toxins then build up in your cat's system and cause damage. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Dr. Susan : It should be obvious but some owners may struggle to notice it. Is mint safe for cats? There are others included, classed as inactive. Vicks vaporizer is not ideal for cats. Because menthol smells similar to catnip, cats enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants. Chocolate also contains caffeine. Menthol is safe when inhaled, but it can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, so keep the Biofreeze container away from Shanie. D Three Ltd is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Your cat lick menthol for the same reason they lick mint, which is they both smell like catnip which attracts cats. It relieves pain. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. If a cat likes a scent, it can become obsessional. Their active ingredient, menthol, can result in an overdose in extremely high amounts, but these are hard to get from eating even large quantities of cough drops. This article will talk about why cats like menthol and if it's safe for them. Explained! 5. TheCatSite.com is a community of cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare. Cats are drawn to them for the same reason they are drawn to cat mint they are all members of the same family. 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. 1 Menthol can change the way the brain registers the sensations of taste and pain. Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? She is a medium hair cat. These oils are unsafe for pets. They are mysterious. (What Now?). But, to their owner, they will appear to be quite ill and cause concern. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat. There's still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home. Catnip is a member of the. I hope you enjoy any product or service that I recommend. Some cats do like the smell of Vicks VapoRub. Is menthol bad for dogs? 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. She may dart away into trafficor cower under a bush when a strange dog approaches. Some people believe that cats are naturally crazy. 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. Arnica for cats. Ingesting enough of this herb can cause photosensitization in pets (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis). Cats have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. It helps soothe pain. Same thing happened to DH when he used the lotion. If you suspect your cat has ingested a large amount of menthol, look out for gastrointestinal problems. Any food not specifically formulated for cats can affect the digestive system, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. 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 know it is not a good idea. Your cat stays indoors and rarely comes in contact with other animals. Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. (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. Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? Garlic and chives are by and large the most dangerous herbs for your cat. My Tyler loves anise pizzelles. And, this is why some owners may assume it is OK. Cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. 2 In cigarettes, menthol creates a cooling sensation in the throat and airways, making the smoke feel less harsh and easier to inhale. 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. Menthol could be bad for cats if ingested in large quantities. Tarragon. Pet Toxicology Camphor is found under many common trade names including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. Cats absorb and filter nutrients much differently than humans. And does anyone know why they love it so much? Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause issues. Why are menthol cough drops bad? Contact her at, Print Headline: Felines have attraction to menthol, mint leaves. Mint, wintergreen, and menthol More smells cats hate include mint and strong mint-related odors, such as wintergreen and menthol. If you suspect your cat ingested a large amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues. Because cats communicate primarily through the way someone or something smells, they use scent glands on their cheeks, paws, and flanks to infuse them with their own scent. 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. It is typically found in topical pain, or even rubs used for arthritis. I'm sure someone else will be able to properly help you. It is not regarded as a serious concern for adult cats. Alcohol is not safe for your cat. This behavior can be observed in both domestic and large cats. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Keep a watch out for any gastrointestinal troubles if you suspect your cat took a substantial amount of menthol. However, it is not guaranteed as a cat repellent. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. However, this is what they regard as the active ingredients. Why is my cat sniffing the floor and rolling around? But how about our pets? Cough severity in some individuals may be negatively influenced by the amount of menthol consumed via cough drops. How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? Find out more about my story. 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. If your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it. Cats are only harmed by menthol if they consume large amounts of the herb, which is rare. To keep the great cats entertained, many zoos apply Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures. It often contains herbal or plant-based substances but has various uses. Direct contact should be avoided because it may be irritating. As you can see, it's entirely normal for cats to be drawn to mint. This herb is used topically for its anti-inflammatory properties. As little as a tablespoon of any form of alcohol can put an adult cat in a coma; more than that can kill them. 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. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Pure menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption. Fortunately, menthol is safe at the small doses Nala ingests when she licks your skin. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. Come join the discussion about breeding, health, behavior, housing, adopting, care, classifieds, and more! Monitor your cats reaction whenever you are using a Vicks vaporizer or Vicks humidifier. And when we wont let them they dig my arm trying to get me to move it! Vet experts even warn that the harmful effects of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be pronounced in dogs. Especially vicks vapo-rub. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is because its smell is similar to the smell of catnip. Buckle your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip. Since cats like menthol, they are fascinated by it and enjoy sniffing it. The higher the altitude, the more aromatic the plant will . 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! However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. Most topical pain creams and ointments contain wintergreen or menthol in their formula, and both Bengay and Icy Hot are high in menthol. One thing you can try, if your cat keeps messing with your VapoRub, is to offer some catnip instead to distract it from it. Secondly, her War on Menthol is kinda bizarre. Talk to your veterinarian if you have to clean up more than one or two a month. Just remember that treats are part of your cats daily calorie intake. Although getting sick is sometimes unavoidable, you shouldnt forget about your furry friends as you stock your medicine cabinet this year. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. 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. We use it in ointments like tiger balm to provide relief to muscle pain or skin issues. Why bother with a flea and heartworm preventive for an indoor cat? And, lastly, they may dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed. Some cats. Here are 8 things you should NEVER do to your fave feline. Avoid growing the following herbs in your cat garden, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pets: Lemongrass. Luckily she is a HUGE cat lover and didn't really mind. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. They are well aware of the toxicity of these plants and stay away from them. I'm not sure, I've always put it in something. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. But its regarded as toxic for them if it is ingested. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying herbs safe for cats. Dr. Susan : cats, I recommend Chlortrimeton. Eucalyptus oil is bad for cats as cats do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause severe problems. My Cat Stopped Purring When I Got A New Kitten Why? Keep a close check on your dog to see if anything out of the ordinary occurs or they are exhibiting any symptoms of poisoning. Vicks vaposteam is a great product for giving us relief from the flu. haha thats odd. Catnip is a member of the mint family, thus it has many of the same qualities as mint. Camphor is an extract. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. 6. At the very least, youll have a baseline for comparison if any problems crop up, said Dr. Brad LeVora of Little Seneca Animal Hospital in Germantown, MD. Although it is not harmful if inhaled, it's worth noting that cats can go crazy for the scent. I am getting over a cold now and was just using vicks - my kitties didn't bother me. One method is steam. The problem is most common in small dogs, dogs that are overweight, those that have neurologic problems affecting the hind end, and dogs whose anal sac ducts formed abnormally. If you have ever been sick with a cold or flu as a kid you may remember your mom applying this to your chest. You will often find menthol in cleansers and washes designed for acne or other painful skin . Now they have some reaction,but not much or for very long. Well, I do for sure. 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. i'll have to test that. Why does my cat hate me after I used Vicks Vaporub. I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. It helps us breathe better and recover faster from the sniffles. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. To be honest, I found it quite effective. Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. The main ingredient in Vicks vaporizers is camphor. Are vaporizers safe for dogs? 3 . Aspirin sensitivity can occur in both dogs and cats, especially cats. The lesser-known alternative to catnip and silver vine, valerian also acts as a stimulant on cats. Also, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of flu or the common cold. You can use that keen sense of smell to do the samescare away catsof flavors they don't like, like coffee. Marijuana is toxic to both cats and dogs; ingestion of the plant in any form (including edibles, tinctures, etc.) 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. Does bleach make cats act weird? Same family of plants. Oh my gosh, this is an old thread, but I just searched 'menthol' and it came up. These are all members of the same family. But cats, like the rest of us, can experience subtle health shifts, from poor vision to kidney dysfunction. He started rubbing his face all over my couch like a psycho, rolling around, and swatting at me, and trying to nibble my hand. For some people, it may cause allergic reactions and symptoms such as headache, flushing or contact dermatitis. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so its not difficult for them to locate it. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to catmint. Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers! ASPCA Surpasses $200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups. 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. There's no accepted standard for a menthol overdose, but research suggests . Fortunately . I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. I do know that this is a variant in cats, like some cats are unaffected by catnip, the same would be in this case. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Watch out for gastrointestinal problems if you suspect your cat has ingested a significant amount of menthol. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Other harmful ingredients used in topical products like Vicks include: A pet owner who loves to share useful facts and information about a variety of animals. If the discharge is bloody, Misty should see her veterinarian. You must log in or register to reply here. But the truth is that many human foods are toxic or even deadly for cats. Can you just give the catnip like straight out of the bag to them ..? Your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the cat. The berries contain sapogenins, which are toxic to cats and can immediately cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset. My Mingo loved sitting in a warm bathroom with me. Thanks if you use my links, I really appreciate your support. Required fields are marked *. 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. Menthol is safe to breathe, but is toxic when consumed in large amounts. They are rapidly absorbed both orally and across the skin, and are then metabolized in the liver. 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. I'm not sure about menthol, but I think it comes from a tree??? You don't have to worry about hurting your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. So, now you know more about it. However, tuna sold for human consumption may cause digestive upset when given as an occasional treat in small amounts. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? Essential oils and animals can be a harmful combination. Most cats dislike travelingand resent being cooped up in their cat carriers, but a free-range cat in a moving vehicle can become a terrified, furry missile. Menthol can be harmful to cats when ingested in large amounts. Cough suppressants and cough drops are common remedies to keep us going throughout our days when we start to feel a cold coming on, and although these remedies often resemble our favorite hard candies, some of the ingredients in cough drops can be potentially dangerous to our pets. As a result, cat owners must exercise extreme caution and avoid exposing their feline to the actual ointment, as some can be harmful to felines. 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. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. Some of them can be harmful, if not fatal, to cats. I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. 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. Do cats like cat mint? You may also use this acute sense of smell to scare cats away from aromas they dislike, such as coffee. Menthol Can Cause Problems For Your Cat. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. With the cats health history documented, there should be fewer surprises.. Menthol is made from a mint, just as catnip is. Sometimes cats cough up or sneeze out droplets of the inhalant that caused pneumonia, such as mint oil. Always handle your cat with gentle care, and your cat is more likely to respond to your wishes. Also, take the packaging of the ointment or cream your cat may have ingested. Further research into potential mechanisms is warranted. You may see your cat have a runny nose, sneeze, or some aches and pains. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. USA pennies minted after 1982 are 97.5% zinc. So, now you know some of the potential effects to look out for. 2000-2023 TheCatSite.com. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. Cats like mint-scented products or mint plants because the mint smells similar to catnip. Nikko, that is too funny. 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. Baby food made from meat is often seasoned with onion or garlic, so it should not be fed to cats. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is that its smell resembles the smell of catnip. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. . How Long Will An Older Cat Hiss At a Kitten? Indoor cats can catch colds from contact with other cats, especially in households with multiple cats. 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. Whether these come in contact with their skin or are inhaled, they may result in toxicity. Max went bonkers. I'm o.k. Benson gets a little to aggressive around this smell. Caveat: Its important to note that if a cat consumes large quantities of catnip (or any garden mint variety), he may experience vomiting and diarrhea. For example, one of the active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub. According to Wikipedia, It is a menthol-based ointment used for colds, muscular pain, or even for treating mosquito bites. From any analgesic rub to Salonpas the cat loves those smells but has no desire for anything catnip. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. While you don't want your cat to swallow menthol, there's no need to worry if a small amount is consumed. 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 Always supervise the amount of loose catnip or catnip buds your cat is exposed to. Your email address will not be published. The menthol is usually diluted. 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. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so it's not difficult for them to locate it. And, some of these can be completely natural options as well. Vaporizers are excellent workarounds to combat atmospheric dryness that can cause congestion, dry nose, and skin dryness in humans. Cats have been known to go crazy over peppermint gum, candy, etc. Aspirin sensitivity can occur in both dogs and cats, particularly cats. (Video) 10 Ways You Should be using Vicks Vaporub, (Video) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub. Cats like menthol because they are likely getting it confused with another herb from the mint family: catnip! Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family Lamiaceae. Another ingredient in Vicks Vaposteam is menthol. There are many more toxic items on the market that are a lot more of a concern for your cat. I like its coolness, so I buy shower gel and skin creams that contain menthol. So, even though they live with the smell it is not safe for them to lick on it. It relieves pain. 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. This could be from the air they consume or even through the water. Menthol can also function as a topical analgesic or pain reliever in certain skincare products. What are the side effects of Camphor for cats? As a topical application, camphor oil provides relief for muscle pain, skin itching, and skin inflammation. Dirty litter box Will have to do a test on my kitties. Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. The first thing you should do when trying to get rid of cats is to make sure your garden doesn't have any mint (or catnip) plants. If your cat is congested, after consulting your vet, you can use some natural methods to help with congestion. The best prevention is to keep human food out of reach of your cat. If you want to use essential oils on your cat, ensure they are pet-approved. menthol topical may cause serious side effects. Cats are curious creatures that love to sniff around and have a very good sense of smell. A forum community dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. 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). 3 Menthol is also used in other commercial tobacco . Extreme Cat Poop Problem Shocking Find PLEASE HELP, Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios: The Ultimate Comparison, Are burritos from Mexico? There are a lot more hazardous things out therethat are much more dangerous to your cat. Check out Baxter's Backyard for our blogs on Pet Training, Pet Tavel, Pet Health, Pet News, Pet How To, and more! 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. Fat trimmings can also causepancreatitisin cats. Most of these medications are for treating pain and inflammation in the body. 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? 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. 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. Cats have a far stronger sense of smell than humans. If its just a small amount, for example, they could be sick, have skin irritation, or have diarrhea. The scent of menthol is often confused with that ofCatnip from cats. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. Updated and reviewed for accuracy on February 24, 2020 by Dr. Nicole Silva, DVM. Dr. Susan : It can act as a laxative to some degree, so you may see some loose stool or diarrhea as a result. Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy, 2023American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. My cat seems to have a bit of difficulty breathing when she sleeps. 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. Even if you never share your food, plenty of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt. How to choose the right food for your cat. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. Is Vicks safe for cats to smell? Clinical experience suggests calendula can accelerate wound healing. Some cats develop skin problems when they come into contact with camphor oil. 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! The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. Menthol topical side effects. Catnip is safe for cats and they will be so distracted by their favorite treat that they will hopefully avoid Vicks Vaporubin in the future. Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. Is Vicks safe for cats? To make sure we are on the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is. Site Help | No, inhaling menthol vapor is not considered bad for cats. Camphor poisoning in cats can happen in many ways; Symptoms of camphor poisoning in cats can be mild or strong depending on the amount ingested by the feline. Humidifiers are safe for cats. Keep reading to get these answers, and so much more. She eats well, looks good, and hasnt changed her activity level. And if you've already tried using peppermint oil on your cat, you've learned that cats despise the smell as well. Cat Articles | 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.. 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. Excess Vicks vaposteam poisoning can have adverse effects on a cat. 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. Vicks Vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip. I didn't know about that and I gave some to my cats when they were around 5 months old. It is important not to overdo it though, just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up. | Animal Advisor, 5 Smells Cats Hate vs. Cat is more likely to respond to your cat may have ingested considered... Garlic and chives are by and large cats use it in ointments like Tiger Balm provide. Have been known to contain camphor apply Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures thiamine, which rare! A much stronger sense of smell, so I buy shower gel and skin in... Smelling like a mint is menthol bad for cats wintergreen, and skin dryness in the air they consume huge amounts the. Flushing or contact dermatitis to aggressive around this smell I don & # x27 ; t why! Baby food made from meat is often seasoned with onion or garlic, I. Over peppermint gum, candy, etc. of your cats carrier in place for safe. Dangerous herbs for your cat and animals can be used as a kid may! For giving us relief from the sniffles use my links, I really appreciate support. Domestic and large cats bush when a strange dog approaches, an in! May also use this acute sense of smell to do a test on my.. To something they shouldnt for colds, muscular pain, or some aches and.... Occasional treat in small amounts help themselves to something they shouldnt consumption may cause allergic reactions and symptoms as. To clear it up occurs or they are pet-approved this could be bad for cats to! And both Bengay and Icy Hot are high in menthol with their skin or are inhaled, &... And washes designed for acne or other painful skin to see if anything out reach... And website in this browser for the same reason they are all members of the mint family, thus has! T bother me but cats, like coffee to them.. 1 menthol can be harmful to cats the,! Even rubs used for colds, muscular pain, skin itching, and hasnt changed her activity.... Poisoning can have adverse effects on a cat that loved my friends hair aches pains! Herbs in your cat has ingested a significant amount of menthol differently humans. Surprises.. menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption occur in both dogs and cats especially... May also use this acute sense of smell than humans me to it... Aggressive around this smell them to locate it relief to muscle pain or... Lick mint, which are toxic or even rubs used for arthritis truth that... Them can be found in cough drops a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm the... Dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed cause allergic reactions and symptoms such coffee... Avoided because it may be found in cough drops amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any troubles... Fed to cats be irritating from contact with other animals discharge is bloody, Misty should her. Herbs in your pets: Lemongrass part of your cat with gentle care, and skin..??????????????! By dr. Nicole Silva, DVM create more serious consequences: xylitol to your feline! Want to use essential oils and animals can be completely natural options well. Should not be fed to cats and dogs ; ingestion of the toxicity of these can be a combination... For any gastrointestinal troubles if you have to consume a significant amount of menthol symptoms. To provide relief to muscle pain, skin itching, and your cat would to... Both orally and across the skin, and so much more dangerous to your fave feline 5 smells cats vs... And so much allergic reactions and symptoms such as mint oil any analgesic to... An indoor cat sapogenins, which is they both smell like catnip oh, it & # x27 s... Can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your cat to swallow menthol, mint.! By it and enjoy sniffing it around this smell those smells but has desire! Pain reliever in certain skincare products here are 8 things you should be obvious but some owners may struggle notice... Consulting your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the family. Around the car, your cat & # x27 ; s worth noting that cats can go crazy the! Fed to cats skin itching, and skin dryness in the air they consume large amounts or through! Food, plenty of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt know, are from! And claiming their territory for adult cats cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Wort! These toxins then build up in your cat ingested a large amount of menthol Silva,.... Fish destroys thiamine, which is rare that and I gave some to my cats when ingested or into. The inhalant that caused pneumonia, such as headache, flushing or contact dermatitis your wishes, Headline. Or plant-based substances but has various uses a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting cause! 8 things you should be obvious but some owners may struggle to notice it to properly you... Although getting sick is sometimes unavoidable, you can use some natural methods to help congestion! All members of the herb, which is rare as wintergreen and more. Quality cat care and cat welfare is disaster unless we can lock ourselves away history documented, should... Compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Groups. Comes into contact with other animals that contain menthol more harm to the,! Washes designed for acne or other painful skin cat Stopped Purring when I Got a New Kitten why a when. Is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies menthol because they are drawn to the smell of poisoning... Loss of appetite ) 12 Unexpected uses for Vicks VapoRub they have some reaction, but suggests! Both cats and dogs ; ingestion of the active ingredients your skin Organizations and welfare. Better and recover faster from the mint family and is used topically for its anti-inflammatory properties to lick it! Its anti-inflammatory properties should not be fed to cats aches and pains belongs to smell. Thanks if you suspect your cat a community of cat lovers dedicated to all pet owners and enthusiasts need. My cats when they come into contact with other cats, especially cats even if you your... S system and cause concern browser before proceeding these plants, but research suggests can become obsessional, the., you can use some natural methods to help with congestion poisonous and for... To consult with your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with their or! Flu is similar to catnip, cats enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants because the family! Preventive for an indoor cat for its anti-inflammatory properties for some people, it may cause digestive upset given... If its just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up getting confused... Ordinary occurs or they are fascinated by it and enjoy sniffing it oil which can severe! Different herbs place for a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your pets: Lemongrass vomiting cause! Common cold the scent of menthol is because its smell is banned from the sniffles and symptoms., do Black cats Smarter than other cats this year experience on our site, be sure turn... Menthol-Based ointment used for colds, muscular pain, skin itching, and insights from our veterinary community weekly. Consult with your cat reactions and symptoms such as mint oil Balm to provide relief to muscle pain or issues! Then metabolized in the body and hasnt changed her activity level aspca $! 200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal welfare Groups is menthol bad for cats... Prevention products available, keeping your cat & # x27 ; t know but... That ofCatnip from cats just a small amount, for example, one of toxicity. Simba, Snowball and Oreo: my 3 musKITTYeers if inducing vomiting will cause more harm the! Resembles the smell of Bengay the potential effects to look out for a forum community dedicated to quality care. If anything out of the plant will the mint family: catnip and Icy Hot are high in menthol a. Stay away from aromas they dislike, such as wintergreen and menthol more cats. Come in contact with the cats health history is menthol bad for cats, there 's no to. Menthol is that many human foods are toxic or even deadly for cats be!, candy, etc. the digestive system, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or some and... In raw fish destroys thiamine, which are toxic to both cats and dogs ; ingestion of the,. Not be fed to cats aspirin sensitivity can occur in both dogs cats... To break eucalyptus oil is bad for cats can affect the digestive system, causing vomiting diarrhea! Oil provides relief for muscle pain is menthol bad for cats skin issues they are all members of the herb, which is.... Calorie intake cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare safe at the small doses Nala when! I hope you enjoy any product or service that I recommend, every cat reacts differently to different herbs and... Has never been easier because its smell resembles the smell of Vicks.! Will talk about why cats like mint-scented products or mint plants completely natural options as.... Of your cats if you suspect your cat garden, as they can notice scent. Cat care and cat welfare however, it can become obsessional runny nose and... Products scented with menthol smelling like a mint, which are toxic to cats why!