Essential oils and liquid air fresheners
Especially affected animals: Cat, Dog
Why it is dangerous
Even a few drops of concentrated essential oils such as tea tree oil can cause serious poisoning when applied to the skin or swallowed; liver failure has been reported in cats. Some liquid air fresheners (liquid potpourri) contain caustic substances, and cats are especially sensitive to them.
Possible signs
- Drooling
- Staggering
- Lethargy
- Tremors
- Drop in body temperature
- Burns in the mouth, pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty breathing
What to do
Remove the product from the area and call a veterinarian immediately, taking the bottle with you. Do not try to induce vomiting unless the veterinarian tells you to; if the product has gotten on the skin, ask the veterinarian what you should do. Do not apply essential oils to your cat's fur or skin unless the veterinarian recommends it.
Do not try to make your pet vomit; if needed, the vet will do it at the clinic. Bring the packaging with you.