Although tea tree oil is widely used by everyone for their day to day troubles, its use for dogs is a whole new story. In this article, we answer the question of whether the use of tea tree oil for dogs is safe or not?
Is Tea Tree Oil Safe for Dogs
There are many claims supporting that use of tea tree oil for dogs is beneficial in treating scars, wounds, skin irritations, drug allergies, and other allergies caused by environmental pollens. Manuka honey, made from tea tree oil, is also known for its use as a topical remedy for skin sores and hot spots in your canine companions.
But the big question remains – Is this all true? A recent research on the use of tea tree oil for dogs has revealed signs of toxicity among them. The oral or cutaneous use of this oil showed signs of depression, over-drooling or increased salivation, lethargy, paresis, tremors, and ataxia among dogs. [1]
There are some sources that state the effectiveness of tea tree oil for dogs when properly diluted with water; the recommended ratio is 0.1 to 1.0 percent. Having said that, only topical application of this oil is recommended, while the oral use is strictly prohibited.
Dogs are pack animals, meaning they are social creatures who prefer the company of other animals. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Tea Tree Oil Uses for Dogs
There are some popular uses of tea tree oil for dogs, amid the surrounding reports of its toxic and allergenic nature. These uses include the following:
- Tea tree oil for fleas on dogs
- Tea tree oil shampoo for dogs
- Tea tree oil for ear infections in dogs
- Tea tree oil for skin infections in dogs
As a final word of warning, always consult a veterinary doctor before using tea tree oil for dogs to avoid any side effects.
