A bit strange, but the simple answer to this question is: Yes, peppermint is generally safe for cats and felines if taken in small amounts. If elaborated scientifically the answer is on the opposite side and it is not that simple at all. That is exactly what we are going to elaborate further on.
Being sensitive or allergic to Peppermint or other plants from the mint family can cause a real problem for cats and their owners. Some people are interested in whether cats eat Peppermint, and again, there is a logical approach to this question.
Curious by nature, cats would like to know and try whatever is surrounding them, so in some cases, yes, they eat peppermint.
More facts about Peppermint and how to prevent damage in such a situation can be learned in a detailed insight f below.
An Overview of Peppermint
Peppermint originates from the family of Lamiaceae perennial plants that grow in moist habitats, mostly in stream sides or drainage ditches. Peppermint is a hybrid plant that produces no seeds. The plant consists of dark green fragrant leaves that grow white flowers. It is native to Europe and Asia but naturalized in North America, South Africa, and Australia.
This plant was mostly cultivated as a domestic herb because people were using it in foods and as an herbal remedy. The taste of Peppermint is because of the Menthol it contains.
Uses and Benefits of Peppermint
This aromatic plant was developed crossing water mint and spearmint. It offers lots of benefits, such as managing digestive problems, nausea, headaches, and some other health issues. It is also used to add flavor to fragrances and food. In the cosmetic industry, it is used to contribute to the flavor of toothpaste, mouthwashes, soups, and other products. It is as you can see widely used. People use dry leaves to make tea.
Very much spread in use is the Peppermint oil which has many benefits to offer as well. It calms skin irritations and itchiness and reduces redness. There are countless benefits that all of us have heard about, so the conclusion is that Peppermint can do you good, but nothing bad if you are not allergic or sensitive to it. Never underestimate the amount of something you take or use which is the main reason for problems.
As for the people, the same goes for cats, peppermint can cause certain discomfort depending on circumstances when it has been used on purpose or accidentally.
Feline Sensitivity to Peppermint
Besides all the benefits of Peppermint or the conclusion that the herb is not poisonous, much evidence brings us to the fact that it can be toxic for cats. Although some cats enjoy the smell of Peppermint close to them it excludes the fact that is safe for them.
Especially when peppermint oil is taken into consideration. In case a cat takes an amount of peppermint oil it is not capable of breaking a few of the components inside it and may, thus, show symptoms very similar to poisoning or liver failure.
This oil is not as poisonous for cats as other essential oils and the most expected symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, or drooling. The biggest problem is inhaling it which may do them a bigger problem than swallowing it.
Toxic Effects of Peppermint on Cats and Symptoms
Peppermint oil appears to be the most dangerous for cats. It can even cause liver damage and breathing problems.
The first symptoms your cat will show after getting in touch with peppermint oil are: difficulty breathing, difficulty in walking and uncoordinated gait, drooling, lethargy or weakness, muscle tremors, pawing at the mouth or face, red lips, and burns on the lips, gums, tongue or skin, and vomiting. Its coat will also smell of peppermint oil.
There is a myth among cat lovers that Peppermint Oil kills fleas which is not at all true. A small amount of this will not kill the fleas and a bigger amount can be toxic. So, do not risk.
How to help your cat if poisoned with Peppermint Oil
Fast diagnosis and fast reaction are imperative in a situation like this. You should immediately contact the Vet or the Pet Poison Hel Centar if there is any in your surroundings. The sooner you take action, the better the prognosis and outcome for the cat will be. In these circumstances, you should not give your cat charcoal, or induce vomiting, because it may worsen your cat’s condition.
Take the package of the product the cat has tried together with you to the vet, so the components can be acknowledged. If by any chance there is part of the product left on the cat’s skin, immediately wash it out even before you take it to the ambulance.
The vet will do some blood examinations to check if the liver and the kidneys are being affected. Intravenous fluids are usually used for the cat’s hydration and a soft diet or feeding tube may also be involved if there is a sign of chemical burn in the mouth and esophagus.
Some of the treatments can include anti-vomiting medications, stomach protectants, antibiotics, liver protection medications, and painkillers. Most cats survive with immediate treatment and support.
Safe alternative to Peppermint for Cats
Being aware of the risk potential when considering Peppermint oil and cats it is prudent to use alternatives. Lavender and Chamomile oils are generally considered very safe when moderately used for cats. Besides these two very calm oils, many cat owners use rosemary, copaiba, helichrysum, oregano, and cedarwood oils.
Few of the essential oils have been clinically tested to be used with cats and most cases are still being observed. The essential oils are OTC (over-the-counter) remedies, so please check any usage with your vet.
According to the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, essential oils can be hazardous to pets, especially cats, but in case they are used in the prescribed dose they are considered safe. The same goes for the Peppermint oil.
