Eucalyptus oil is one of the well-known essential oils around the world and is distilled from the leaves of certain species of the eucalyptus tree. This article will cover the concern “Is eucalyptus essential oil safe for dogs?“, its benefits, associated risks, etc.
Is eucalyptus essential oil safe for dogs?
Yes, eucalyptus essential oil is safe for dogs, but they don’t tend to like it much. This oil can be beneficial to animals but only when given in small concentrations. Because excessive and prolonged exposure can cause health problems in dogs.
Eucalyptus oil is made out of eucalyptol, mostly known as cineole, which has been used for thousands of years for a variety of medicinal uses. It’s an essential oil that is actually a plant extract used for aromatherapy.
Eucalyptus oil has been used as a herbal therapy for thousands of years. But in dogs, it’s considered safe only in a small amount. One can get benefits from this oil by gaining awareness about the effective methods of using eucalyptus oil.
What are the benefits of eucalyptus oil for dogs?
The given below are the world-known benefits of eucalyptus oil in dogs:
Relieve joint pain in dogs
The anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus oil helps in relieving joint pains. This oil has antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties which help in relieving joint pains in dogs. It’s mostly used in combination with lavender oil and frankincense oil to treat joint pains.
Treat fleas
Eucalyptus oil has been beneficial for dogs in getting rid of fleas and ticks. It’s one of the safe alternatives to chemicals used for treating fleas which can cause complications in dogs. It’s used in combination with shampoo to treat fleas.
Decongesting the stuffy nose
If your dog is suffering from a cold, eucalyptus oil has been one of the best essential oils to help in decongesting the stuffy nose in dogs. It also helps in treating respiratory issues in dogs.
Disinfecting dog bedding and blankets
Eucalyptus oil is used for disinfecting doggie beddings and blankets because of the irritant nature of other disinfectants. Eucalyptus oil helps in disinfecting the dog bedding without causing complications for your dog.
Soothing the irritated skin
Eucalyptus oil blended with some other beneficial and safe oil can be used to soothe the damaged skin in dogs caused by insect biting, stings, itching, rashes, etc.
What are the risks associated with using eucalyptus oil in dogs?
The risks associated with the use of eucalyptus oil in your dog, are as follows:
- Burns, skin irritation
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Swelling, itching, rashes
- Dilated eyes
- Wheezing
- Excessive drooling
- Rapid breathing
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
What are the symptoms of eucalyptus poisoning in dogs?
When your dog starts showing signs like salivation, vomiting, or diarrhea and you know it was exposed to eucalyptus oil, your dog may be experiencing eucalyptus poisoning. If you notice your dog is stumbling or facing difficulty in walking, it’s also a symptom of eucalyptus poisoning.
Other symptoms associated with this condition may include unexpected weakness, dilated eyes, over-tiredness, pawing on the face/mouth, depression, etc. All these conditions indicate your dog is facing eucalyptus poisoning.
However, your veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis and provide treatment. If you suspect your canine friend has consumed eucalyptus oil, contact your veterinarian or animal poison control for further instructions as soon as possible.
What are the precautions/safety concerns associated with the use of eucalyptus oil in dogs?
The safety aspects to consider while giving eucalyptus oil to your dog are given below:
- Avoid using eucalyptus oil on damaged skin or open wounds.
- Always make sure you use diluted eucalyptus oil for your dog, as concentrated eucalyptus oil can cause complications.
- It’s best advised to never use eucalyptus oil on small dogs or puppies.
- Avoid using eucalyptus oil in a diffuser in the same room as your pets.
- Your dog should never ingest eucalyptus oil, as it’s not considered safe.
- As dogs have strong smelling senses, therefore, eucalyptus oil should be used keeping the associated irritation in mind.
- Eucalyptus oil can be toxic for some dogs, so always look for symptoms of eucalyptus poisoning.
- Contact your veterinarian before using eucalyptus oil for your dog.
- Avoid adding eucalyptus oil, even a small amount to your dog’s food or water.
- Always make sure your dog is comfortable with the use of eucalyptus oil.
Conclusion
Today, we covered the article “Is eucalyptus essential oil safe for dogs?”, its benefits, associated risks, etc. From the above discussion, it’s clear that eucalyptus essential oil is safe for your dog but only when given in small amounts.
Since eucalyptus oil has therapeutic effects and because of many other properties, it can be given to your dog. However, if your dog shows any signs of eucalyptus poisoning, consult your veterinarian about the condition as soon as possible.
