Stressed cat not using litter box. Is lavender oil safe for calming?

Question

My indoor cat is under stress, due to neighbourhood cats in season and fighting. Im noticing today his not using his toilet normally. Is Lavender Oil ok to burn in an oil burner to help reduce his stress. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. In general, the use of essential oils is contraindicated for indoor pets. If you keep the windows open for plenty of fresh air it kind of defeats the purpose of the lavender. A better option is to use a cat appeasing pheromone. I like Feliway as you plug it into an outlet in as many rooms as Shadow occupies, & it emits a undetectable scent that has calming properties to cats. I would also start him on a calming supplement like Zylkene made by Vetoquinol. Lastly, make sure Shadow is not having actual physical problems in the litter box. You do not say if his issues are with defecation or urination, but some male cats can develop a form of cystitis that if not addressed quickly can result in a urinary blockage, a life threatening condition. If he is defecating outside the box, adding another box in another location, using a product called Cat Attract in the box, & the Feliway often helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Stressed cat not using litter box. Is lavender oil safe for calming?

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