A: Menthol is derived from mint leaves, and many cats have a gene that attracts them to mint. She is a medium hair cat. Even if you never share your food, plenty of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt. Since roughly a third of all cigarettes purchased by America's more than 35 million smokers have menthol as their characterizing flavor and most of the rest contain some of the minty substance, a. Any food not specifically formulated for cats can affect the digestive system, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. Humidifiers are safe for cats. Camphor is commonly found in topical pain or arthritis body rubs. Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. Why is my cat sniffing the floor and rolling around? Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can easily pick up the smell of menthol. Your cat will recognize the similarities between the two herbs and will be attracted to them. Marijuana is toxic to both cats and dogs; ingestion of the plant in any form (including edibles, tinctures, etc.) And does anyone know why they love it so much? Pine 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. menthol topical may cause serious side effects. Some zookeepers apply a menthol-containing ointment such as Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures to entertain the great cats. (Video) 10 Ways You Should be using Vicks Vaporub, (Video) 12 Unexpected Uses for Vicks VapoRub. As you can see, cats are naturally attracted to menthol. Too cute! The darker the chocolate is, the more dangerous it is to your cat and death can occur if enough is consumed. Felines are self-groomingand their constantly busy tongues capture loose fur, which is then swallowed. The theory is that they relate the smell to catnip. Never try to understand cats and what they do. Thanks if you use my links, I really appreciate your support. The AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing. Pet Toxicology Camphor is found under many common trade names including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. Cats like menthol because they are likely to confuse it with another herb from the mint family: catnip! No reaction at all. This is another reason why some cat owners steer clear of it. You may see your cat have a runny nose, sneeze, or some aches and pains. 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. Cats like menthol because they are likely getting it confused with another herb from the mint family: catnip! Nikko, that is too funny. How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? Normally, your cat would need to consume a significant amount of menthol before showing symptoms of menthol poisoning. Because menthol smells similar to catnip, cats enjoy products scented with menthol or mint plants. Cat Articles | I don't have an explanation, but I have seen the same thing you saw. Menthol topical side effects. Also, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out of paws reach! Vicks vaposteam is a great product for giving us relief from the flu. with being understanding, but when she attacked my husband one night, and he is ticklish, I was laughing so hard, I couldn't even help him! According to Wikipedia, It is a menthol-based ointment used for colds, muscular pain, or even for treating mosquito bites. 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. Your cat recognizes and is drawn to the similarities between the two herbs. These oils are unsafe for pets. Menthol inhibits acid-induced inflammation and relieves discomfort. LMAO. 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. Simply dampen cotton balls with witch hazel and wipe your cats chin once or twice a day. If a cat likes a scent, it can become obsessional. What are the potential side effects? Clinical experience suggests calendula can accelerate wound healing. In general, cough drops cannot cause an overdose and are safe to use. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the chin. It relieves pain. There's no accepted standard for a menthol overdose, but research suggests . Each one of the three main ingredients is claimed to be a cough suppressant, hence the reason they are used against colds and coughs. Cats are attracted to Vicks Vaporub because of the scent it gives off. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. This helps us offset the costs of running this site, so thank you for your support! This article will talk about why do cats like menthol and is it safe for them. LOL I have a jar of mentholatum, like vaporub. You know that open-nose feeling you get when you breathe in menthol? [And what to do? Redhaired103 6 yr. ago. It may be confusing if your cat catches a cold when they stay in all the time, right? A bland diet may also be suggested to help heal the mucus membranes of the cat. Is Vicks safe for cats to smell? Benzocaine. Cats have a keen sense of smell, so its not difficult for them to locate it. 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. Menthol could be bad for cats if ingested in large quantities. ZooAwesome is not intended as replacement to any veterinarian advice. 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. You don't have to worry about injuring your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. ASPCA states that mint is toxic to cats. Doberman vs Rottweiler Spot the Difference. Vicks Vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip. But, the confusing thing is it can affect cats that do not have direct contact with other cats. I backed up and he leaned forward towards me and looked like he was going to lunge at me, mouth slightly open. Your cat likes Vicks Vaporub because it smells like catnip and cats are attracted to it. As long as no vital organs are severely damaged, your pet will be discharged to recuperate at home. The confusing thing is cats, including large cats, have a natural attraction to it. If you have ever wondered what VapoRub contained you now have an idea of the main ingredients. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the chin. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. He actually knocked the little round container of it off my endtable and rolled around on the floor with it. There's still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home. One of my cats have a thing for under-arm deodorant! This may be for good reason, as ingesting mint and its relatives can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. It is taken from Camphor trees, hence the reason its called camphor. Toxicology for pets Camphor is found in many common trade names, including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. But many cats love mint and mint-scented products because of the similar scent of mint to catnip. Treatment options for camphor poisoning in cats include; This is a process of flushing out poisonous contents in the stomach in both pets and humans. Keep a watch out for any gastrointestinal troubles if you suspect your cat took a substantial amount of menthol. may result in the following symptoms of poisoning: prolonged depression, vomiting, incoordination, sleepiness or excitation, hypersalivation, dilated pupils, low blood pressure, low body temperature, seizure, coma, and, rarely, death. Menthol is safe when inhaled, but it can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, so keep the Biofreeze container away from Shanie. It can cause instant seizures and depression if not taken care of early. Avoid using camphor oil, nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, or menthol in your humidifier. And Mint is in the same family as catnip and catmint. Camphor in ointments, creams, or balm, is unsafe for your cats. So, it is understandable if you find yourself wondering, Is Vicks vaporizer safe for cats and dogs?. Avoid growing the following herbs in your cat garden, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pets: Lemongrass. 9. We have to hide the baked ruffles in the cabinet with the childrens safety lock on it or he will get them lolsilly ole kitty lol. for cats. Now they have some reaction,but not much or for very long. Talk to your veterinarian if you have to clean up more than one or two a month. He will however come up and steal bites of my food if I don't pay attention, he loves pop tarts, turkey, rice krispie treats, ice cream of any flavor just to name a few :lol: my dad claims he isn't a softy to animals but we caught him feeding our cat yogurt with a spoon he was sharing. Having said that, each cat will react differently to different herbs. Salicylates, the generic name for aspirin, are found in both Bengay and Icy Hot. Your email address will not be published. And when we wont let them they dig my arm trying to get me to move it! Luckily she is a HUGE cat lover and didn't really mind. I have had the same effect when using BenGay. There are a lot more hazardous things out therethat are much more dangerous to your cat. Mint. You can't just take a shower and go to bed and try to fall asleep without her attacking you. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. 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. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. Behavior marking, the cat's smell can be spread by rolling on the floor. Sometimes I just sewed little soft toys for them and put the catnip inside. Pushing or throwing your cat in frustration can harm her, both physically and in spirit. Check out Baxter's Backyard for our blogs on Pet Training, Pet Tavel, Pet Health, Pet News, Pet How To, and more! 5. Cats have a powerful sense of smell, so its not hard for them to find it. If menthol were so bad, dermatologists and chemists wouldn't be putting it in products. Vicks vaporizer is not ideal for cats. A lack of thiamine can cause serious neurological problems and lead to convulsions and coma. I like its coolness, so I buy shower gel and skin creams that contain menthol. I took her to the veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two. From any analgesic rub to Salonpas the cat loves those smells but has no desire for anything catnip. Excess camphor oil can cause deadly seizures that result in the death of a cat. Oregano. Think your cat longs to explore all of springtimes splendors on her own? Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause issues. Will have to do a test on my kitties. Cats are sensitive to phenols and phenolic compounds which are found in many essential oils. Menthol reduces the feeling of respiratory discomfort . Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. Give your cat no other human medicines cats are not small humans, and many of our home remedies are toxic to them. Cough severity in some individuals may be negatively influenced by the amount of menthol consumed via cough drops. Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experiences with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? Still have questions about cats or want to share some experience with your cat friend, why not join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? 5 A) and food consumption (Fig. 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. Cats can be attracted to the smell for the same reason they are attracted to catnip. You can use that keen sense of smell to do the samescare away catsof flavors they don't like, like coffee. Dr. Susan : Coconut oil is very fattening, so I would not recommend using this long term. But, what is this camphor? To put it in perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol. Many creams, including Bengay and Icy Hot, contain salicylates, which are derivatives of aspirin. Anyway, my point is methol, catnip and catmint are all from the same family and it is believed that this is why cats have a fascination with it. Is Vicks safe for cats? Are fragrance oils safe for dogs to smell? These are all members of the same family. Frequent hairballs can also be a sign of gastrointestinal disease. Eating any type of onion on a regular basis could causeanemia. If you have heard about the dangers of Camphor for your cat you may be wondering what side effects you should be looking out for. 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. Further research into potential mechanisms is warranted. Home & Forums | 5 B). They don't mind the smell of mint. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Believe it or not, fleas and the mosquitos that carry heartworms can easily enter your home and cause big problems for cats. Other essential oils safe for pets include mountain savory, cinnamon bark, Laurus nobilis, and lavender. Cats can not only get drunk, but it can also easily cause severe liver and brain damage. Ok ummI put some goldbond on my hands for excema (has menthol in it) and went to pet simba ( new kitty). Find out more about my story. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. So, to be safe, it is best avoided. Are vaporizers safe for dogs? 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? 3 . In the case of mild camphor poisoning, like vomiting and diarrhea, the vet provides supportive treatment and let the symptoms die down within hours. These human foods can cause serious illness in your cat. With your cat on the loose, ping-ponging around the car, your final destination is disaster. What about inhaling the steam from a Vicks vaposteam? Some cats. Most cats react to menthol. 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With it a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol like its coolness, I! Likes Vicks VapoRub because it smells like catnip and cats are sensitive to phenols and phenolic compounds which found.
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