Calming Aromatherapy for Cats

Aromatherapy is the art of using essential plant oils for healing, and for enhancing mood. It is natural and safe---for humans. Aromatherapy for cats must be handled carefully. Cats have very thin skin and lack the enzymes needed to process essential oils, so even the smallest amount can be extremely toxic. The good news is that hydrosols---the byproduct of the process that extracts essential oils---can be used for safe cat aromatherapy. As long as you avoid essential oils, feline aromatherapy methods can help calm and soothe your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Hydrosols, including lavender, chamomile and rose
  • Spray mister
  • Vodka (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1
      Lavender is calming.

      Put lavender hydrosols in a spray mister. Check the label to see if it should be diluted. Hydrosols are also called "floral water" and generally don't need dilution, but it's best to be sure.

    • 2

      Mist a little bit of the lavender hydrosol near your cat, but not on her. Let her come and sniff the air. If she pulls back, shakes her head, sneezes or reacts in any other negative way, put the spray away and try again in a few days.

    • 3

      Spritz a fine mist of lavender hydrosols onto your hand. Rub your hands together to warm them and then gently stroke the lavender onto your cat. The combination of gentle stroking and the lavender essence should soothe her.

    • 4
      Chamomile is a gentle cleanser.

      Clean your cat's ears with a mix of lavender and chamomile hydrosols for a soothing, gentle way to keep them clean.

    • 5
      Rose hydrosols are good for rashes.

      Use rose hydrosols to treat rashes and minor skin irritations. Either spray the mist directly onto your cat, or into your palm and gently massage it in.

    • 6

      Spray your cat's litter box, bed and favorite place to sleep with orange and lavender hydrosols to help refresh them and calm and soothe your cat.