Cedarwood oil

What does cedarwood oil offer dogs?

Cedarwood oil has several benefits for dogs, especially as a natural remedy for parasites such as fleas, ticks and moths. The oil acts as an insect repellent by disrupting the parasites' sense of smell and keeping them away. Cedarwood oil also has a calming effect on dogs suffering from stress or anxiety. It can help to relax the nervous system and improve mood.

How do you use cedarwood oil on dogs?

There are various ways to use cedarwood oil on dogs, depending on the desired purpose. Here are some examples:

• To prevent fleas and ticks, you can mix a few drops of cedarwood oil with a tablespoon of olive oil and put the mixture in a small spray bottle. You can use this to spray your dog's coat as a preventative measure. Be careful not to spray the oil in your dog's eyes or nose.
• To repel moths from fabrics, you can spread cedar wood shavings around the dog's bed or in the cupboard. The smell will keep the moths away and provide your dog with a cozy sleeping environment.
• To calm your dog, you can put a few drops of cedarwood oil on a cotton cloth and place it near your dog. The scent will relax your dog and give him a sense of security.

What are the disadvantages of cedarwood oil for dogs?

Cedarwood oil may be a natural product, but that doesn't mean it's always safe and harmless. There are some disadvantages and risks that you should be aware of before using cedarwood oil for your dog.

• Cedarwood oil can cause skin allergies in some dogs, especially if it is applied undiluted or in too high a concentration. Therefore, you should always do a skin test before spraying or rubbing the oil on your dog. If your dog shows signs of itching, redness or swelling, you should wash the oil off immediately and seek veterinary advice.
• Cedarwood oil can also cause respiratory infections if inhaled. This can be particularly problematic if your dog is a chewer and gnaws on his cedar doghouse. Therefore, you should make sure that your dog does not chew or lick the oil or wood.
• Cedarwood oil can be toxic if ingested. This is especially true for the eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), which contains meliatoxins. These can cause symptoms such as excessive salivation, depression, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, seizures and even death in dogs. You should therefore make sure that your dog does not nibble or eat the berries, leaves, flowers or bark of this type of cedar.