So why is camphor in Vicks vaposteam a threat to cats? Secondly, her War on Menthol is kinda bizarre. However, some drops contain ingredients that can create more serious consequences: Xylitol. Then praise Misty and offer her a treat so she'll be happy to have you help her again in a month or two. But, most homes will identify with it being used for colds. If you believe that your pet has ingested cough drops and are concerned about the possible dangers, contact your veterinarian or the APCC immediately to find out the next appropriate steps. Don't delay contacting a professional. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. It is important not to overdo it though, just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. I'm just curious if anyone elses cats love the smell of menthol products as much as my cats do? Frequent hairballs can also be a sign of gastrointestinal disease. Cats can be attracted to catnip for the same reason that they both smell like catnip. Keep Kitty safely harnessed, leashed, and reassured by your presence when outdoors, for her peace of mindand yours. 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. (What Now?). I don't know why but she would slobber and claw my poor friend. Most topical ointments people use contain wintergreen or menthol in their pain medicine formula, and Bengay and Icy Hot are both high in menthol. Physical manifestations may be: Diarrhea Agitation Heavy panting Seizures Comatose Cardiac arrests The best prevention is to keep human food out of reach of your cat. I don't have an explanation, but I have seen the same thing you saw. Because the scent of menthol is similar to that of catnip, cats enjoy it. You know that open-nose feeling you get when you breathe in menthol? An annual vet exam can pinpoint the start of any health concerns and treat minor issues before they become major issues. 2 In cigarettes, menthol creates a cooling sensation in the throat and airways, making the smoke feel less harsh and easier to inhale. USA pennies minted after 1982 are 97.5% zinc. The smell is banned from the house unless we can lock ourselves away. The scent of menthol is often confused with that ofCatnip from cats. To be honest, I found it quite effective. Menthol is used in a wide range of products, including inhalants, lozenges, mouthwashes, breath . Copyright 2023, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat. 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? It hasn't gotten so bad that she breathes thru her mouth. This HealthHearty write-up lists out the uses, benefits, and side effects of menthol. So, when you use a strong-smelling ointment like this it can throw them off their scent. Never try to understand cats and what they do. Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you. You don't have to worry about injuring your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. You can also check out ASPCAs complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants (and herbs!) LMAO. Cats are curious creatures that love to sniff around and have a very good sense of smell. Also, be sure to always keep your flu season supplies stored safely out of paws reach! If you suspect your cat has camphor poisoning, rush them to the vet immediately. I took her to the veterinarian who emptied her anal sacs but said they would probably refill every month or two. Site Help | Your cat lick menthol for the same reason they lick mint, which is they both smell like catnip which attracts cats. Dr. Susan : Coconut oil is very fattening, so I would not recommend using this long term. If your cat goes outside, avoid growing St. Johns Wort where he can consume it. Do cats like the smell of the Vicks VapoRub? Most cough drops contain sugar, menthol, eucalyptus oil, colors and flavorall of which can cause gastrointestinal upset. But is camphor in Vicks vaposteam safe for cats? Humans have a total of 5 million smell sensors, while cats have 200 million. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. If you have heard of Camphor before, in the context of health remedies, you may have wondered exactly what it is, and where it comes from. My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. Privacy Policy Legal Info, Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, Xylitol can cause hypoglycemia and possible liver injury, 199 Dogs Were Killed at Iowa Puppy Mill in ONE Day. This can be found in various products, such as Vicks Vaporub. Whenever I apply a menthol skin product, Nala rubs up against me, licks my skin and follows me around, not leaving me alone. "To close your eyes will not ease another's pain.". How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? No, inhaling menthol vapor is not considered bad for cats. This can pose a risk for aspiration and may become a choking hazard, particularly in those pets that may be more susceptible to aspiration. When clicking a link here and buying, we may be able to make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. A: Dogs have two anal sacs beneath the skin near the anus. It relieves pain. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from. Hey, she knows where she lives and shed never wander off, right? There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. Effects Ingestion or prolonged exposure to camphor can have toxic effects on the liver, causing a backup of bodily waste known as bactericemia. Its amusing to see what cats find interesting and go crazy over. Yes, Vick's steam rub could harm your cat. He only licks it like crazy if I'm holding him on my shoulder. D Three Ltd also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. Whether it irritates your skin or not beyond that depends on what your skin can handle. Cats dont enjoy hurling those hairballs any more than we enjoy removing them from the living room carpet. Camphor poisoning in cats can happen in many ways; Symptoms of camphor poisoning in cats can be mild or strong depending on the amount ingested by the feline. And does anyone know why they love it so much? Camphor is an organic compound used in creams, lotions, and ointments. Come join the discussion about breeding, health, behavior, housing, adopting, care, classifieds, and more! Menthol, which is commonly found in cough syrups for dogs, is considered an irritant to the tissues of the mouth and digestive tract. As a topical application, camphor oil provides relief for muscle pain, skin itching, and skin inflammation. If your dog ate something containing menthol, call your vet and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Silence the Superstitions, Why Do Cats Purr When You Talk To Them? ASPCA states that mint is toxic to cats. Some people believe that cats are naturally crazy. Alcohol is not safe for your cat. I do know that this is a variant in cats, like some cats are unaffected by catnip, the same would be in this case. This could be from the air they consume or even through the water. If you have ever wondered what VapoRub contained you now have an idea of the main ingredients. As for giving Simba a tissue, I'm not sure if you should, every night we come down stairs to find the paper towels mauled. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Text STOP to opt-out, HELP for more info. Buckle your cats carrier in place for a safe road trip. And if you've already tried using peppermint oil on your cat, you've learned that cats despise the smell as well. In cosmetics and skincare products, menthol is used to help relieve pain and to improve the scent and flavour of the product. 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. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. Imagine having lungs and sinuses like a car, much more sensitive than humans'. The FDA issued a warning about topical ointments that contain one specific drug, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. Cats rely heavily on their scent for identification and claiming their territory. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. Your vet will provide medication to manage any skin allergies that develop on your pets coat. If your cat has a mild flea infestation, a comb through with a stiff comb dipped in water and non-toxic liquid dish detergent could fix things. Copyright 2022 by Feline Follower. Check out Baxter's Backyard for our blogs on Pet Training, Pet Tavel, Pet Health, Pet News, Pet How To, and more! Menthol is common in products like Ben Gay and other creams like Vicks vapor rub. Heres a list of human foods that you should keep away from your feline family member, along with some advice on what to do if your cat does get ahold of one of these types of food. Clinicians should include cough drop use in history taking of patients with persisting cough illnesses. I have had a toner with high amount of alcohol and toner in it (Clinique sent me as a sample), and to me it didn't cause any irritation but I only used it once a week or . They are rapidly absorbed both orally and across the skin, and are then metabolized in the liver. [Describing the process would be too graphic for some newspaper readers, but there are instructional videos on YouTube.]. My Tyler loves anise pizzelles. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: But many cats love mint and mint-scented products because of the similar scent of mint to catnip. Excitement over a robins fly-by may cause your mellow tabby to accidentally dislodge that screen and plummet to the ground. These oils are unsafe for pets. he just said he likes it our cat goes crazy for twinkies. There's no accepted standard for a menthol overdose, but research suggests . Normally, this occurs with each bowel movement as a scent signal for other dogs. Cinnamon is non-toxic to cats. There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. 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. Experts say it will be difficult to keep your cat away from your knee where you put the medication because, yes, he is obsessed with the smell, but if you let your cat latch onto your bum leg where the medication is, just keep it covered at all times when hes around, and always thoroughly wash your hands. Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Another ingredient in Vicks Vaposteam is menthol. Vaporizers are excellent workarounds to combat atmospheric dryness that can cause congestion, dry nose, and skin dryness in humans. Mint. This pungent herb is known to transform lazy (read: chubby) cats into the feline equivalent of Richard Simmons. Even plain yogurt may cause stomach problems if not fed in moderation, so check out the vet-approved serving size first. Larger doses are a problem, so keep your products secured in the medicine cabinet to prevent her from chewing the containers and consuming their contents. I have had the same effect when using BenGay. Well I have the flu, and a tissue is the only thing I had to let him take his psycho-ness out on lol. Don't worry, you don't need to give up on your favorite diffuser or oil-infused potpourri just yet. With the cats health history documented, there should be fewer surprises.. Your cat licks menthol for the same reason she licks mint, which means they both smell like catnip, which cats are attracted to. Why does my cat like the smell of Bengay? What are the side effects of Camphor for cats? The following herbs for cats may not offer medicinal benefits, but they are flavorful and considered safe for felines: Lets end with the obvious: catnip! I did have a cat that loved my friends hair. Keep reading to get these answers, and so much more. However, eating a clove of garlic or a green onion may cause digestive upset. Sandalwood. If in doubt it best to check in with your vet. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. It can cause instant seizures and depression if not taken care of early. (Video) My Cat or Kitten Is Congested - What Can I Do? If youre at work when the incident happens, hours could pass before you realize your cat is hurt or missing. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. 11 Holiday Foods That Are Dangerous for Your Cat. Camphor is readily absorbed across the skin, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning. Thyme. ASPCA Surpasses $200 Million in Grant Funding to Nationwide Organizations and Animal Welfare Groups. Humans have a total of 5 million scent sensors, while cats have 200 million. I too use Goldbond and my Stumpy tries to lick it off my hands every time I apply it. Cats are curious creatures who enjoy sniffing around and are very olfactory. Is a Vicks vaporizer safe to use around my cat? Tuna has too much unsaturated fatty acid and does not have sufficient vitamin E or other antioxidants, whereas commercial cat foods usually supplement vitamin E. If you suspect your cat ate any of these foods, try to determine how much they may have eaten. Cats can not only get drunk, but it can also easily cause severe liver and brain damage. Even a small ingestion of these can cause damage to your cats red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death. Symptoms include fever, fast or labored breathing and a rapid heart rate. It prevents the coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter. The best thing to do is to consult your vet if you have any doubt about it before you try and remedy the problem. Steam rub could harm your cat should inhale vaposteam use around my cat like the smell of product... Opt-Out, help for more info poisoning, rush them to lick it my... 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Use Goldbond and my Stumpy tries to lick on your skin or the product directly to consult your vet Pet. Place for a safe road trip the main ingredients cause damage to your cats if consumed if. It best to check in with your vet will provide medication to manage any skin allergies that on!