One of my cats have a thing for under-arm deodorant! Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy over. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. 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. Don't delay contacting a professional. These things run in the same family. According to Vicks, it contains camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. While you dont want your cat to swallow menthol, theres no need to be concerned if a small amount is consumed. If you have any unanswered questions, ask us in the comments section. Cats can tolerate the smell of these plants, but consuming them in any form can cause issues. But, for the purpose of this article that is enough. Don't worry, you don't need to give up on your favorite diffuser or oil-infused potpourri just yet. Imagine having lungs and sinuses like a car, much more sensitive than humans'. And, lastly, they may dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed. But, most homes will identify with it being used for colds. Ginga is the worse out of my two, they both normally rub and bite softly though, I let them do that on my feet, doesn't hurt as much. My cats actually don't really care too much for catnip. Infrequently, xylitol may be found in cough drops. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to cat mint, that they both smell like catnip. The main ingredient in Vicks vaporizers is camphor. Salicylates, the generic name for aspirin, are found in both Bengay and Icy Hot. It should be obvious but some owners may struggle to notice it. I've been fighting a wicked cold and I pulled out the good old Vick's and Stanley kept trying to steal it from me! Menthol is made from a mint, just as catnip is. Should I Be Worried About My Cat's Hairballs? Cats have a keen sense of smell, so its not difficult for them to locate it. Vicks vaporub can be used as a substitute for catnip, so if your cat cant seem to stay away from Vicks vaporub, try putting out catnip instead. If a cat likes a scent, it can become obsessional. But cats, like the rest of us, can experience subtle health shifts, from poor vision to kidney dysfunction. Keep reading to get these answers, and so much more. If your kitty gets a nose of mint oil, she could contract aspiration pneumonia. To make sure we are on the same page let me clarify what Vicks VapoRub is. However, eating a clove of garlic or a green onion may cause digestive upset. 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. 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). Secondly, her War on Menthol is kinda bizarre. Menthol is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath . Alternatively, always use your Vicks vaporizer or humidifier in a separate room away from your cat. Because the scent of menthol is similar to that of catnip, cats enjoy it. Unfortunate-because menthol sprays could relieve arthritis pain in elderly dogs. There's still a way you and your little feline can enjoy a meow-nificent, aromatic home. Firstly, they just genuinely dislike the smell. However, every cat reacts differently to different herbs. Ingesting enough of this herb can cause photosensitization in pets (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis). Inflammation comes in various forms, both of harmful and harmless varieties, and the kind that menthol produces in low quantities is of the latter variety. There are far more dangerous things out there that are far more dangerous to your cat. Well I have the flu, and a tissue is the only thing I had to let him take his psycho-ness out on lol. It is not regarded as a serious concern for adult cats. Privacy -Designed by Thrive Themes 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.. Extreme Cat Poop Problem Shocking Find PLEASE HELP, Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios: The Ultimate Comparison, Are burritos from Mexico? "To close your eyes will not ease another's pain.". This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. Common ones include diphenhydramine, pseudoephedrine, and dimenhydrinate. What about inhaling the steam from a Vicks vaposteam? Why is my cat sniffing the ground and rolling over? Felines are self-groomingand their constantly busy tongues capture loose fur, which is then swallowed. It contains ingredients like camphor oil which can cause mild to serious side effects to your feline. Menthol is common in products like Ben Gay and other creams like Vicks vapor rub. JavaScript is disabled. But, this is quite common and similar to how we humans pick up colds. If you suspect your cat has camphor poisoning, rush them to the vet immediately. So why is camphor in Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats? There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. Cat Pee On Your Fabric Couch? Many cats express dislike for the smell of peppermint and may not even want it. 1 Menthol can change the way the brain registers the sensations of taste and pain. Top Ten Tips on How to Keep Your Cats Teeth Clean, Four Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Entertained While Youre Away, 6 Things You Should Never Do When Adopting a Cat, Top 3 Things You Should Know About the Bengal Cat, Leaving Your Cat Alone: 9 Things You Need to Know, Senior Cats: A Few Things To Keep In Mind, 6 Things To Know About Flea Dips for Cats. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. I know the dogs dont like vicks, Last time i was sick Tanner was being a pest so i let him smell it and he made the funniest face. I never heard that catnip wasn't good for kittens, but I do know that they don't have any reaction to it. Your cat licks menthol for the same reason she licks mint, which means they both smell like catnip, which cats are attracted to. The methol in Vicks can be breathed in, if in small doses. Wrong. Most topical ointments people use contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot are both high in menthol. Most of these medications are for treating pain and inflammation in the body. This article will talk about why do cats like menthol and is it safe for them. Its getting to be that time of year again: time for flu shots, cough drops and all the precautions we take to avoid getting sick during the colder months. The sacs are lined by glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus. 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. And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. It contains products like menthol and nutmeg oil which have shown to have serious side effects when inhaled by pets. there isn't any reall smell he goes nuts over. The berries contain sapogenins, which are toxic to cats and can immediately cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset. A: Dogs have two anal sacs beneath the skin near the anus. The stems, leaves, and flowers of the mint contain high contents of essential oils, which are not safe for cats. Camphor in ointments, creams, or balm, is unsafe for your cats. Even if you never share your food, plenty of cats help themselves to something they shouldnt. But lending a hand in grooming can greatly reduce the amount of hair your cat ingests, which means theres less to be processed or spewed up. Specially, they think cats are attracted to the chlorine in bleach. Menthol topical side effects. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from. The ointment in Vicks Vaposteam is known to contain camphor. There is no information available on the toxicity of e-cigarette capsules with menthol flavors, but the menthol part of the cartridge is not very toxic, unlike the nicotine which we know is very dangerous to your pets. Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? They are enamored with the smell, taste, texture, and everything in between. 6. These machines release water vapor into the air in the form of fumes that can be very helpful for humans. Tarragon. A bland diet may also be suggested to help heal the mucus membranes of the cat. As you can see, it's entirely normal for cats to be drawn to mint. This herb, which belongs to the mint family, contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that drives many cats wild. Are vaporizers safe for dogs? An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. And when we wont let them they dig my arm trying to get me to move it! Is Vicks safe for cats to smell? Most cats react to menthol. Your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the cat. In general, cough drops cannot cause an overdose and are safe to use. 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 menthols. Any food not specifically formulated for cats can affect the digestive system, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. You may see your cat have a runny nose, sneeze, or some aches and pains. Some cats develop skin problems when they come into contact with camphor oil. Despite the benefits of these fume-releasing machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use them when Fido is around. He actually knocked the little round container of it off my endtable and rolled around on the floor with it. From any analgesic rub to Salonpas the cat loves those smells but has no desire for anything catnip. Some are even fatal. So, to be safe, it is best avoided. As little as a tablespoon of any form of alcohol can put an adult cat in a coma; more than that can kill them. Why is my cat sniffing the floor and rolling around? They don't mind the smell of mint. Your cat is obsessed with mint because it is often confused with another herb in the mint family: catnip! I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? Oddly enough, valerian is used among humans for relaxation. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. These aptly named herbs for cats can also help with feline allergies. The compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine. Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. Message and data rates may apply. You must log in or register to reply here. Cats can be attracted to catnip for the same reason that they both smell like catnip. He started absolutely freaking out! Take your dog to the vet clinic as soon as possible so a medical professional can examine them. Indoor cats can catch colds from contact with other cats, especially in households with multiple cats. Celebrate National Biscuit Day with These Delicious Pet Treats! If the discharge is bloody, Misty should see her veterinarian. Cats can be attracted to the smell for the same reason they are attracted to catnip. Menthol is a great pain-reliever - for humans. Cats have been known to love the smell of menthol. An unconfined cat is distracting to the driver, and vulnerable to injury or escape. Warm, moist air will open up her nasal passages and let her breathe easier. I hope you enjoy any product or service that I recommend. 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. Menthol can be harmful to cats when ingested in large amounts. Eucalyptus oil is bad for cats as cats do not have the enzymes to break eucalyptus oil which can cause severe problems. for cats. If menthol were so bad, dermatologists and chemists wouldn't be putting it in products. The chemical composition of eucalyptus contains certain substances that might be potentially dangerous to the cat. Dirty litter box Cats can become lactose intolerant when they become adults. Because of this, cat owners must exercise extreme caution and avoid exposing their cat to the actual ointment, as some can be harmful to cats. OMG!, it is too funny. Are fragrance oils safe for dogs to smell? Tolly too LOVES mint and menthol. She may dart away into trafficor cower under a bush when a strange dog approaches. Catnip is related to mint I think - that maybe why your kitties like mint. Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers! Your cat likes Vicks vaporub because it smells like catnip and cats are attracted to it. Fat trimmings can also causepancreatitisin cats. Cats are attracted to minty scents so be very wary of putting out creams, lotions or foods containing menthol when you have a cat. There are many more toxic items on the market that are a lot more of a concern for your cat. And, some of these can be completely natural options as well. What Essential Oil Scents Are Safe for Cats, Fur Real? 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. Q: Why is my cat Nala attracted to menthol? The FDA issued a warning about topical ointments that contain one specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. | Powered by WordPress. Cats will only be harmed by menthol if they consume huge amounts of the herb, which is rare. Menthol is not safe for cats and you should protect from ingesting products containing menthol. There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. Cats may be drawn to the smell for the same reason they are drawn to catmint. Some zookeepers apply a menthol-containing ointment such as Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures to entertain the great cats. 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. 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. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. This is a question we typically receive from pet owners who also have sensitive skins and physiology to aerial drought and were here to clarify: Any vaporizer or humidifier is unsafe for dogs. With plenty of prescription flea and tick preventionandheartworm prevention products available,keeping your cat free of fleas and heartworms has never been easier. You might even consider planting a few of these herbs as a cute little cat garden. There are others included, classed as inactive. Silence the Superstitions, Why Do Cats Purr When You Talk To Them? LOL I have a jar of mentholatum, like vaporub. Stop using menthol topical and call your doctor at once if you have: severe burning, stinging, redness, or irritation . Catnip is a member of the mint family, thus it has many of the same qualities as mint. However, some dogs' sacs don't empty as they should. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. 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. Copyright 2022 by Feline Follower. Author and mom of 3 fur babies:Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers!Author of the book:Secrets to keep your cat healthyLearn more aboutmy story, Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful, Address: Suite 452 40815 Denyse Extensions, Sengermouth, OR 42374, Hobby: Table tennis, Archery, Vacation, Metal detecting, Yo-yoing, Crocheting, Creative writing. Severe toxicity is unlikely from single acute exposures to such ointments. Long haired queen, are kittens latching . When Misty's sacs fill, the uncomfortable swelling causes her to lick herself and scoot on the ground in an attempt to empty them. 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