Some scents are risky for pets, and cats are the most vulnerable. Concentrated essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, citrus, pine, wintergreen, cinnamon, clove and ylang ylang are commonly cited by vets as hazardous to cats, and several are also risky for dogs. Birds are especially sensitive to anything in the air. If animals share a space, keep diffusion low, avoid concentrated essential oils, keep diffusers out of reach, give animals a scent-free area and ask a vet before scenting.
Why cats are especially sensitive
Cats process certain compounds, including phenols found in some essential oils, far less efficiently than people or dogs because they lack some of the liver enzymes involved. Oils can also land on fur and be swallowed during grooming. Small amounts that seem harmless to people can build up in a cat.
Where this matters in business
- Pet-friendly offices, where dogs spend the working day.
- Vet clinics and groomers, where animals are already stressed or unwell.
- Pet cafés and shops, with animals present all day.
- Home offices and serviced apartments, where residents’ pets live with the scent.
How to scent safely around animals
- Ask a vet first, especially for cats, birds and animals with breathing problems.
- Avoid concentrated essential oils. Use fragrance formulated for diffusion within the IFRA Standards, at low levels. See essential oils versus fragrance oils.
- Keep it low. Animals have more sensitive noses than we do. See scent intensity.
- Keep diffusers out of reach and away from food, water and bedding.
- Provide a scent-free area animals can move to, with good ventilation.
- Watch for signs of discomfort such as drooling, coughing, sneezing, laboured breathing, lethargy or unsteadiness, and contact a vet if you see them.
This article is general guidance, not veterinary advice.
Frequently asked questions
Are essential oil diffusers safe for cats?
Many vets advise against diffusing concentrated essential oils around cats. Ask your vet before scenting any space a cat lives in.
Which scents are safer around dogs?
Low-level, professionally formulated fragrance is generally lower risk than concentrated oils, but ask a vet, particularly for dogs with breathing problems.
Should a vet clinic be scented?
Only with great care: very low levels, no concentrated oils and advice from the clinic’s own vets. See our healthcare and clinic scenting page.
Further reading: Essential oils on Wikipedia.
