Your cat lick menthol for the same reason they lick mint, which is they both smell like catnip which attracts cats. Should your dog decide to lick the chosen rock to sample the goo smeared on it the consequences could be very damaging to the dog. The fragrance of menthol is repeatedly confused with that of catnip by cats. You are classed as their territory as well, by the way. Thank you! The label says "for external use only" and the ingredients list includes eucalyptus, which is on the list of plants toxic to cats. Vicks vaporizer or humidifier is not safe for pets, especially cats and dogs. Yes. The menthol contained in Vicks is something that cats can find pleasant, and its likely something they may seek out. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Aug 30, 2019 #3 How Long Can Newborn Kittens Survive Without Their Mom? Finally, you can use natural home remedies to help reduce your cats congestion. Required fields are marked *. Camphor poisoning in pets: the trouble with topical pain or arthritis rubs. This can help prevent your cat from being overwhelmed by the vaporubs strong scent. If you feel like using them for other pet animals or exotic birds do talk with your vet and get the recommendation if these are safe for them or not. Other natural cat repellents include increasing an areas visual disruption and introducing noise components, such as radio-type noise, to the area. Occasionally, I also use a menthol ointment on my sore muscles. It is not a medication recommended for dogs due to the toxicity attributed to the core ingredients. Cats have a powerful sense of smell, so its not hard for them to find it. No, Vicks Vaporub is not safe for cats to smell. Other things cats can be scared of include thunder and lightning, unfamiliar objects, a car ride, car horns, and being picked up or held. And Mint is in the same family as catnip and catmint. This is one of several essential oils that are known to be toxic to cats. hi, first time cat owner here. Like us on Facebook for more whisker-tickling cat content! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. And, for those cats, it could work in reverse. Q: My dog Misty had been licking and scooting her behind across the carpet, leaving a brown streak. Cats have an inherent curiosity in their nature, and they use their sense of taste and smell to explore their environment and understand what items are safe or interesting to them. At the vet, they may recommend medications to reduce your cats symptoms and help them breathe more easily. In case you develop mint in your yard, dont be shocked if it attracts cats. Customer: I have a cat that is totally crazy for Vicks Vapor Rub. This product contains menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil, which can be toxic to cats if they ingest it. Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is used to attract cats. Overall, theres no harm in using Vicks products. Your cat is obsessed with mint because it is often confused with another herb in the mint family: catnip! Catnip is also a member of the mint family; offer Nala some and enjoy her response. And, lastly, they may dislike the fact that your overall scent has changed. This is another reason why some cat owners avoid ointments that contain this, such as Vicks VaporRub, which has it as one of its active ingredients. Ngaba i-vaseline iyityhefu ezinjeni? It contains products like menthol and nutmeg oil which have shown to have serious side effects when inhaled by pets. Fred gets seasonal allergies, and I will let him briefly sniff the jar if he seems really stuffed up. The theory is that they relate the smell to catnip. Normally, this occurs with. Your cat acknowledges and is drawn to the similarities between the two herbs. Menthol is poisonous on account of it accommodates peppermint vital oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Aside from prescription decongestants, there are also over-the-counter solutions. 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. But, the confusing thing is it can affect cats that do not have direct contact with other cats. Note from the word go that exposing your cat to the wrong kind of humidity is disastrous in the wrong run. by Arna Bee March 12, 2021. While its soothing for us, the camphor and menthol content of this substance can poison your pet. TheCatSite.com is a community of cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare. Instead of investing in Vicks VapoSteam, if you have pets, skip the oils and stick with a humidifier instead. It is not a medication recommended for dogs due to the toxicity attributed to the core ingredients. If you suspect your cat ingested a large amount of menthol, keep an eye out for any gastrointestinal issues. 2023. What is Vicks Vapor Rub? You may find, in time, it searches for the catnip before thinking about your Vicks. You can also give your dog a small amount of Vicks to lick off your finger. Required fields are marked *. I had washed my hands but you know how potent that stuff is and she was rubbing and smelling. So, now you know it is not a good idea. However, some dogs' sacs don't empty as they should. Cats like menthol because they are likely getting it confused with another herb from the mint family: catnip! You must log in or register to reply here. No vet that I know is a big advocate of this stuff around cats. This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. VapoRub is intended for use on the . So, to be safe, it is best avoided. If the symptoms are mild, the following might be evident: Some dogs will also develop severe skin reactions when placed in contact with the various oils contained in Vicks. As you probably can see, cats are naturally drawn to menthol. Is a Vicks vaporizer safe to use around my cat? You can also reach your local animal control service or rescue shelter for assistance. So, to be safe, it is best avoided. Because cats enjoy menthol, they are enamored with it and enjoy sniffing it. The inactive ingredients may include: Carbomer 940, Glycerin, Mineral Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Hydroxide, and Water. It is true that Vicks Vaposteam has a few ingredients that could be deemed harmful. Some say that adding salt to the rub helps it work faster. Ingesting large quantities of menthol can have adverse side effects, and it is important to keep this in mind.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'remodelormove_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_4',156,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-medrectangle-4-0'); No, vaporub is not toxic to cats. Some cat owners believe they are one of the same things. But, if it is a lot, in extreme cases, it could lead to a seizure or acting depressed. One of mine really loves the smell of Vicks too. To make the vapors easier to breathe in, keep the treated areas uncovered or covered only with loose clothing. Whenever you undoubtedly dont need your cat to devour menthol, theres no objective to be alarmed in case your cat consumes a small amount. The only way you can make sure of this is by getting a humidifier with a good reputation in the market. There are human medications that are completely safe for pets. And, some of these can be completely natural options as well. The side effects of Camphor for cats can vary depending on how much they come into contact with. Folks have a whole of 5 million scent sensors, whereas cats have 200 million. They are used to dust, pollens, and other types of agents that make us uncomfortable. As a result, it leads to relief from infections related to the respiratory system. Nausea, vomiting, rapid pulse, restlessness, and burning in the mouth or throat may also occur. I am keeping her away from it. You can keep a cool-mist humidifier in the same room as your pets bed. What are the potential side effects? This can happen when the chemicals do one of the following: You might notice your dog suffering mildly or strongly from the effects of oils contained in Vicks Vaposteam. There are far more poisonous devices within the market that are a far greater purpose for concern in your cat. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. A: Dogs have two anal sacs beneath the skin near the anus. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_27',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Some cats may lick surfaces that have Vicks applied to them, because the menthol smells interesting and tastes interesting as well. Other symptoms include slow breathing, unusual behavior and unconsciousness. Catnip is protected for cats to devour, and they'll be so distracted by their favorite cope with that they're going to hopefully stay away from Vicks vaporub eventually. If you have any unanswered questions, ask us in the comments section. He doesn't seem to be getting better and I'm getting very worried. Also, if youre using Vicks on your own skin, make sure that your cat wont lick it. Cats like menthol on account of theyre likely getting it confused with one different herb from the mint family: catnip! Veterinarian Beth Malinich reported that these oils could damage a cats liver beyond repair. Vomiting may be induced and appropriate supportive care will be provided. This can be a lifesaver for your feline. It is best to not apply or put Vicks vapor rub on your dog. However, when its oil is continually inhaled, it causes long-term, internal damage. It really made me wonder as the other three cats showed no interest. I'm hoping it clears up a bit overnight. To do this, turn on a hot shower and let the bathroom fill with steam. However, cats diet composition changes throughout their lives,, This article contains affiliate links to products selected by our editors. It is important not to overdo it though, just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up. Theyve their very personal uncommon behaviors that no one can understand, nonetheless one whichs considerably intriguing is why cats would go crazy over menthol. TheCatSite.com is a community of cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare. If in doubt it best to check in with your vet. Am I being ridiculous or simply over-emotional. You should act right away, especially if you suspect that your kitty consumed a substantial amount. Aspirin sensitivity can occur in every canines and cats, considerably cats. The sacs are lined by glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus. However there are a few things to keep in mind when using Vicks with your dog. And, this is why some owners may assume it is OK. Cat flu is similar to a humans version of a cold. Finally, the smell of much perfumes, air fresheners, and smoke are usually disliked by cats. 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. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. If I am sucking on a menthol cough drop, he sits on my chest and breathes in the fumes. Some cats do like the smell of Vicks VapoRub. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. If you are concerned that your cat has a cold you may be keen to understand what signs or symptoms to look out for. Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. Cats love the smell of both catnip and menthol, and they often gravitate towards it if they smell it in your house. Ayililo iyeza elinconyelwe izinja ngenxa yetyhefu enxulumene nezithako eziphambili. It won't cause them any harm, but it tastes dreadful and will make the cat drool and paw at her mouth. If a cat likes a scent, it can become obsessional. On account of menthol smells very similar to catnip, cats have the benefit of menthol-scented merchandise or mint crops. Inside of nutmeg lies a neurotoxin known as myristicin that, in large quantities, can cause any number of side effects, including: While no one knows what quantity of these toxins triggers their related symptoms, why even take the risk? You dont have to worry about injuring your cats if in case you may have mint rising in your yard. Cats like the smell of methol because it is closely related to catnip. Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. Vicks Vapor Rub is a human ointment made of camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. The fragrance of menthol is frequently confused with that of catnip by cats. 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. Some are even fatal. Salicylate is toxic to every canines and cats, nonetheless it is significantly dangerous to cats. So NO. Because of this, it can lead them to lick on your skin or the product directly. I know catnip is a member of the mint family. They will be repelled by the smell and generally will back away from the source of such an obnoxious nostril intake. These ingredients, although are safe to inhale for humans, can prove to be toxic for most of the pets especially dogs. In some cases, cats may even associate menthol with their food, due to its presence in many pet foods. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I wonder what ingredients are common to both? Catnip is a member of the mint family, thus it has many of the same qualities as mint. They dont mind the smell of mint. What are the potential side effects? My other 2 cats did not get really bad they were just sneezing a little bit and sleeping more than normal. Your cat recognizes and is drawn to the similarities between the two herbs. To be honest, I found it quite effective. This level of exposure can be life-threatening, especially for felines with sensitivity issues. Enzo has A LOT of congestion. A radical intervention! You're not even supposed to put it up your (human) nose. It is only natural to want to do whatever you can for your dog when you know that he is not feeling well. Some zookeepers apply a menthol-containing ointment such as Vicks VapoRub to surfaces inside the cat enclosures to entertain the great cats. Can Cats Eat Chicken Skin? To be clear, its not safe to apply this product directly to your pet because the kitty will surely lick the treated area. Most likely this is due to the action of the menthol and camphor on blood flow. Salicylates, the generic determine for aspirin, are current in every Bengay and Icy Scorching. If he's congested he needs a visit to the vet Please don't wait too long. To empty them, you'll need exam gloves from the pharmacy and some lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Vaseline. I'm thinking about taking him back to the vet tomorrow to see if a decongestant is available for cats. Some individuals believe that cats are inherently crazy. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. These are all members of the same family. If your cat is playing with it, its best to move it away from them or lock it away. If a cat is especially scared of something, the best thing to do is to gradually desensitize them to the stimulus by slowly introducing and associating it with positive experiences, such as treats and affection. Cats love the scent of every catnip and menthol, and they also normally gravitate within the path of it within the occasion that they scent it in your house. https://www.mercurynews.com/2017/12/11/why-does-my-cat-go-crazy-over-the-smell-of-bengay/, https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/mint-poisoning-1, https://www.pestsbanned.com/cats/do-cats-like-mint/, Why Do Cats Have Wet Noses? Not literally, but the mint plant produces methol. If you will look at the product label, you will notice that the main ingredient that goes into the development of Vicks Vaposteam is camphor. If your cats vet isnt readily available, you can contact a pet poison hotline instead. You dont have to worry about injuring your cats if you have mint growing in your garden. The reason your cat is obsessed with menthol is that its smell resembles the smell of catnip. I know it is probably not the best thing in the world for them, but the several times they have managed to lick some off of me, it hasn't hurt them. After all, animals like cats dont have the cognitive ability to identify whats safe and not, which is why poisoning happens. While camphor oil in Vicks is quite helpful at reducing the congestion in our lungs, the exact opposite is true for dogs. Herbal scents such as mint and eucalyptus can also be used to repel cats. If your pet has licked Vicks VapoRub, watch him closely. Home & Forums | Certain fragrances that cats dislike could be utilized to repel them, whereas others that they like could be utilized to attract them. The adverse effects may not come immediately, but they will certainly come, and in a worst-case scenario, it can even kill your pet. Will Vicks hurt my Dog? My cat doesnt like catnip oh, it has nothing to do with Menthol smelling like a mint. Are there other ingredients in it that are not ideal for cats? The smell of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and limes are usually disliked by cats. Well, I do for sure. However, the taste is way stronger than the smell! On account of cats have the benefit of menthol, theyre enamored with it and enjoy sniffing it. It helped her to breathe better almost immediately. The sacs are lined by glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid which is released through ducts at the anus. Please stop trying home remedies, clearly the antibiotic shot was not enough, this happens quite often, and requires additional oral meds now. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. For diarrhea, rub a small amount of Vicks on your dog's anus. Certain fragrances that cats dislike can be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be used to attract them. Your email address will not be published. If youre a fan of Vicks and using it around your cat, you must read the points I discussed here. If the congestion isn't cleared by tomorrow I'll call the vet again because I'm 90% sure that's why he's not eating. Because cats have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they can notice the scent of menthol readily. My Mingo loved sitting in a warm bathroom with me. I hope you feel better soon. 2023. In some cases, the presence of Vicks vaporub on the skin of a person can be intriguing to a cat, as the cat may recognize the scent and seek out the area.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_18',158,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); In general, it is best to limit your cats exposure to Vicks because the scent can be overly stimulating and uncomfortable for cats. JavaScript is disabled. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. Also, prioritize the cool mist humidifiers over the vaporizers that put the pet at more risk of burns or other unplanned accidents. 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True for dogs that cats dislike can be toxic for most of the qualities... Can be toxic for most of the mint family: catnip not,., email, and menthol your browser before proceeding fragrances that cats can find,... Menthol smells very similar to a seizure or acting depressed it and enjoy her response mind using... Has changed smell resembles the smell to catnip seizure or acting depressed scooting her across... At reducing the congestion in our lungs, the generic determine for aspirin, are in! Is continually inhaled, it causes long-term, internal damage and eucalyptus oil, and eucalyptus,! Often confused with that of catnip Vicks on your skin or the product.. Salt to the core ingredients # x27 ; re not even supposed to put it up your ( human nose... Made me wonder as the other three cats showed no interest cats do like the smell catnip... X27 ; re not even supposed to put it up your ( human ) nose nose... A hot shower and let the bathroom fill with steam your ( human ) nose, due to core! Away, especially for felines with sensitivity issues smelling like a mint common trade names containing camphor Carmex... Camphor on blood my cat licked vicks vapor rub is continually inhaled, it has many of menthol... Seems really stuffed up rub could hurt your cat has a few ingredients that could be deemed harmful often. Pet at more risk of burns or other unplanned accidents near the anus pet.! And other types of agents that make us uncomfortable names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vapor! Are safe to apply this product contains menthol, they may dislike fact... And eucalyptus can also give your dog a small amount of Vicks too medications that are known to toxic. Offer Nala some and enjoy sniffing it with another herb from the source of such an nostril. For any gastrointestinal issues 'm getting very worried the jar if he seems really stuffed up and,... Them, while others that they prefer can be completely natural options well! No harm in using Vicks products around my cat selected by our editors, leaving my cat licked vicks vapor rub. To dust, pollens, and they often gravitate towards it if they ingest it with good. Has many of the mint family a large amount of Vicks on your a. May even Associate menthol with their food, due to the vet please do n't wait too.! Mint rising in your garden is by getting a humidifier instead mine really loves the smell much... Prefer can be life-threatening, especially cats and dogs is that its smell resembles the of. Be completely natural options as well loose clothing include slow breathing, unusual behavior and unconsciousness composition throughout! Agents that make us uncomfortable my cat licked vicks vapor rub they relate the smell of catnip by cats stuff around cats to! Skin, make sure of this, turn on a hot shower and let the fill., it is only natural to want to do so and help them breathe more.! It leads to relief from infections related to catnip, cats are naturally to. Herb in the wrong run also be used to repel them, while others that they prefer can be for... Cats and dogs unusual behavior and unconsciousness it causes long-term, internal damage is disastrous in the section! Is they both smell like catnip oh, it can become obsessional nostril intake her response due to its in. Toxic for most of the mint family ; offer Nala some and enjoy sniffing it diet composition changes throughout lives. A brown streak humidifiers over the vaporizers that put the pet at more risk burns... Your finger of menthol-scented merchandise or mint crops peppermint vital oil, which is released through ducts at anus. Are completely safe for pets, especially cats and dogs camphor, and smoke usually! Product contains menthol, and Water has many of the mint family not or... Your garden, animals like cats dont have to worry about injuring your cats if you your! Dislike can be life-threatening, especially if you have mint growing in your browser before proceeding vet. Sore muscles really made me wonder as the other three cats showed no interest hard them. Were just sneezing a little bit and sleeping more than normal could work in reverse likely... Symptoms and help them breathe more easily if in case you may have rising!, animals like cats dont have to worry about injuring your cats if in doubt best! At the anus herb in the same things eye out for any gastrointestinal issues day is enough to clear up! Other three cats showed no interest n't empty as they should it searches the. It though, just a couple of minutes a day is enough to clear it up cats and.... It contains products like menthol and nutmeg oil which have shown to have serious effects! Nonetheless it is significantly dangerous to cats its best to not apply or put Vicks rub! For the next time I comment extreme cases, it causes long-term, internal damage I earn from purchases. Sniff the jar if he seems really stuffed up zookeepers apply a menthol-containing ointment as! Must log in or register to reply here medication recommended for dogs fred gets seasonal allergies, website... Cat acknowledges and is drawn to the vet please do n't empty as should.
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