Argan oil is often found in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, and conditioners. It is also commonly used as a carrier for essential oils. Some evidence suggests it may benefit humans, including hydrating skin and hair, and even helping reduce inflammation.
The oil can be used for cooking and even as a seasoning, just like olive oil. Although studies have been conducted on the safety and effectiveness of argan oil when used by humans, similar evidence is lacking regarding cats. To be safe, it’s probably best not to feed argan oil or use it on your cat.
Argan and Essential Oils
Argan oil is often used as a carrier for essential oils. Undiluted essential oils are often applied topically or inhaled in aromatherapy. They are also regularly added to cleaning products and air fresheners. Essential oils contain distilled aromatic chemicals from plants.
It is possible to find more than 90 types of essential oils, with unique uses. Peppermint oil is often used to help with digestive health, and tea tree oil is used to fight infections. However, regardless of the various benefits they provide to humans, essential oils and argan oil are not safe for cats.
Essential Oils and Cats
Essential oils and cats are a very bad combination. Many popular oils are toxic to cats, including tea tree, peppermint, and pine oils. Cats do not have the proper liver enzymes to break down some of the chemicals in essential oils efficiently. They can get sick from swallowing or absorbing the products through the skin.
Cats can consume essential oils after walking through spills and licking their paws clean. Signs of essential oil poisoning include drooling, vomiting, dizziness, and lack of coordination. If your cat gets essential oils on its fur or skin, use a little dishwashing detergent to remove it to limit absorption.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat has come into contact with any essential oils. Be sure to have the product your cat was exposed to on hand so you can provide accurate information and write down some important facts your vet will likely want to know, such as how long your cat was exposed and if you’ve seen it. any signs that indicate your friend may be suffering from poison ingestion.
Where Does Argan Oil Come From?
Argan oil comes from the argan tree, also known as Argania spinosa. The tree is found in dry areas in parts of southern Morocco between the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. They can grow up to 25 feet tall and feature yellow flowers in the spring.
Argan oil has a long and storied history in North Africa. The tree has been used for wood and oil since the 11th century or so, and it has long been incorporated into Moroccan diets and beauty routines. The traditions surrounding the argan tree are on the United Nations list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and part of the area where the trees grow has been named an International Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common cat skin conditions?
General hair loss, dermatitis, itchy skin, wounds, infections, tumors, and dandruff are just some of the common skin issues in cats. Because skin conditions have similar symptoms, it is important to have dermatological problems evaluated by a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis to ensure proper treatment.
How Are Skin Problems Diagnosed in Cats?
Veterinarians usually rely on a physical exam along with answers to questions such as when the issue first appeared, what type of food your cat is eating, and if anything has changed in the home that may be stressing your pet. animal Needle aspirates and biopsies are sometimes used to narrow down potential causes related to the growth.
Are There Ways To Help Keep Cats’ Skin Healthy?
High-quality food is essential to help cats’ skin stay soft and nourished. When cats don’t get all the nutrients they need, their fur becomes malnourished. Keeping track of flea and tick prevention can also reduce some skin problems. Cats that are stressed sometimes groom themselves excessively, but pheromone products can help manage anxiety.
Conclusion
Many people swear by the health benefits of argan oil, and it’s commonly added to lotions, moisturizers, shampoos, and conditioners. It comes from a tree that grows in the southern part of Morocco, but the oil has become popular all over the world. Unfortunately, little evidence shows the safety and effectiveness of using argan oil in cats. To keep your cat safe and healthy, avoid using argan oil or essential oils around your cat. If your cat has a skin condition or other health issue, your veterinarian can provide effective treatment.
Featured Image Credit: vovidzha, Shutterstock
