Lavender is one of the most recognizable plants characterized by beautiful purple flowers and a pleasant smell and can be met in many gardens and homes. Often used in aromatherapy and loved by people for its relaxing effect, lavender is preferred by the latter. Hence, pet owner’s question of whether this aromatic shrub is suitable for pets or not will arise. In this article, the author examines various risks connected to lavender for dogs and cats, combined with its opportunities and the possibility of using it in the house safely.
Understanding Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula) is a group of mints having sweet sweet-scented flowers and used for preparing quality essential oils. There are almost 45 species of lavender in all over the world. Its popularity is founded in its uses in a broad range of forms, for instance; the use of dried flowers, and lavender essential oils, and its incorporation into several household items.
Benefits of Lavender
Lavender, for instance, is widely known to have positive impacts, especially on humans. It is applied to decrease stress, anxiety as well as insomnia. lavender oil extract is also beneficial for skincare as has benefits of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory features. Nevertheless, owing to its diverse functions, some owners use lavender to ease pets’ anxiety or treat skin issues.
Is Lavender Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Lavender is safe for pets to be around but when it comes to ingestion it becomes questionable due to the type of lavender and the quantity used. Lavender itself is not toxic to dogs and cats although can be dangerous when misused.
Essential oil:
It is important to note that lavender essential oil is highly concentrated and if consumed by pets or applied directly on the skin they will be severely affected. They can also induce gastrointestinal issues, interact with the central nervous system, or in rare cases – cause liver toxicity. Cats should avoid essential oils altogether because due to their liver being structured in a certain way, it is difficult for them to metabolize certain substances. The signs and signals that your pet may be experiencing essential oil toxicity are drooling, vomiting, lack of coordination, and lethargy.
Lavender Plant:
Lavender plant itself is less hazardous compared to oil but can irritate the gastrointestinal system if consumed in large volumes. Dogs and cats that chew different parts of lavender may show actions like vomiting or diarrhea. However, these are usually mild and the puppy soon recovers without the need for medical attention.
Benefits of Lavender for Pets
Despite the potential risks, lavender can offer several benefits for pets when used correctly:
Calming Effects:
Lavender has been known to have anxiolytic effects that decrease stress levels in animals, including pets. Lavender is also beneficial during loud such as during a storm, watching fireworks, or during a visit to the vet. Lavender oil can help reduce anxiety in pets, diluted drops of lavender oil on a pet’s bed or lavender inside a pet’s collar will work.
Skin Soothing:
The topical application of lavender has some anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial qualities that may be useful in case some pets develop rashes or zika bites. A mixture of lavender oil with water is helpful for itchy rashes on the skin and can be dabbed on the area. Nevertheless, they should be used in tiny amounts and only after discussing it with the vet, because essential oils can harm the skin of your pet.
Natural Flea Repellent:
Lavender is used here because it is effective in repelling insects; hence, a natural treatment for fleas without using chemicals. You can mix a few droplets of the lavender oil into your pet shampoo or use a spray with a lavender scent to avoid fleas. Once more, care has to be taken to make sure the oil that is used is diluted to the correct potency and is safe for use on animals.
Safe Usage of Lavender Around Pets
To safely incorporate lavender into a pet-friendly environment, consider the following tips:
Dilution is Key:
Keep the contact of pets with lavender essential oil minimal and should be run displease with water. It is always recommended that diluted vinegar is given to the dogs which can be in the ratio of 1% for the dogs and 0. 1% dilution for cats. This is a ratio of one drop of lavender oil to 100 drops of carrier oil for cats and ten drops of carrier oil for dogs.
Avoid Direct Contact:
In no circumstances should you use neat essential oils on your pet’s skin or coat of fur. However, for pets, use various products that have lavender that is meant for animals, or you can prepare a solution and sprinkle it in the pet’s bedding or the area he or she frequents.
Monitor Your Pet:
Anytime you introduce lavender or any other substance for that matter to your pet, you should be very watchful for signs of reactions. Any signs of drooling, vomiting, extreme tiredness, or having trouble breathing should be stopped immediately and your veterinarian informed.
Use Lavender Plants Cautiously:
Ensure that, if you have lavender plants within your compound, either in the compound or within your houses, they are beyond the reach of your curious pets. The consumption of large quantities of lavender is not fatal, but it is advisable to keep your pets away from nibbling on it.
Consult Your Veterinarian:
It is recommended that you speak with your veterinarian before incorporating lavender or any other essential oil into your pet’s environment. They will be in a position to offer safe usage recommendations and provide pertinent suggestions on the appropriate products to use in your Pet’s situation.
Conclusion
To sum up, lavender might be non-toxic for dogs and cats if used correctly and sparingly. Overall, considering that lavender essential oil can be poisonous if consumed or if it directly comes into touch with the skin, the lavender plant, however, is not as dangerous. The positive effects associated with lavender include pets’ insect control, and skin relief from the calming effects of lavender products when applied correctly. It is necessary to check with the veterinarian about the use of lavender for pets and about the right proportion and application of the same. Indeed, using the following tips, lavender can be effectively incorporated to bring positive changes in one’s life without jeopardizing the health of pets.
