11/11/2025
Something to consider as the holidays begin and we make our homes cozy.
As the weather gets colder, many people turn to essential oil diffusers, candles, and liquid potpourri to create a cozy atmosphere. If you have cats, these products can pose a serious toxic risk.
Cats lack an essential liver enzyme needed to metabolize and eliminate certain toxins like essential oils. They're also highly sensitive to phenols and phenolic compounds found in many oils. Even exposure through diffusers can cause respiratory irritation or, with active diffusers like ultrasonic models, oil droplets can land on your cat's fur and be absorbed through the skin or ingested during grooming.
Watch for signs like difficulty breathing, drooling, vomiting, tremors, wobbliness, or lethargy. Cats with pre-existing respiratory conditions including asthma are at a greater risk. If your cat is exposed, move them to fresh air immediately and call or chat with us at 800-213-6680.