🐶🍃Can you use Tea Tree Oil for Dog Skin?

Tea tree oil has been used for years in the realm of natural remedies for various ailments, including skincare issues. Many people use it to treat infections and disorders, such as athletes’ foot, dandruff, fungus infections, stings, bites and more. As pet owners, we always strive to provide the best care for our furry friends, and when it comes to treating skin infections in dogs, the question arises: can tea tree oil be used safely? While tea tree oil does possess certain therapeutic properties, it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers it poses to dogs. 

Tea Tree Oil Hazards for Dogs 

Tea tree oil is derived from a tree predominately found in Australia. This oil is used to fight against parasites, bacteria, fungi, and inflammation in humans. Many skin, hair and body care products contain this oil. The aromatic smell makes it very appealing as well. Many pet owners attempt to use tea tree oil to prevent fleas and ticks on their pet’s fur. This is not recommended and is highly dangerous to dogs, as the oil absorbs into the skin and leads to severe effects. 

Dogs can also get poisoned by licking the oil from the bottle or licking their fur/skin after the oil was applied. Whether they ingested the oil, or it entered their bloodstream after absorbing into their skin, they can experience adverse effects. Mild symptoms can range from skin rashes to vomiting. More severe symptoms include aspiration from pneumonia, neurologic changes, and organ damage. If your pup has consumed tea tree oil or you unknowingly applied it to their skin without knowing the dangers beforehand, seek medical help immediately. 

Symptoms of Tea Tree Oil Poisoning 

Clinical signs of poisoning depend on the dosage and how concentrated the oil is. Potential symptoms include: 

• Muscle weakness 
• Incoordination 
• Vomiting 
• Hypothermia 
• Drooling 
• Collapse 
• Rashes 
• Seizures 
• Pneumonia 

Why Are There Tree Oil Products For Dogs?

So … tea tree oil is dangerous and potentially deadly. Then why is it in so many dog products – even natural products? There’s tea tree oil shampoo, spray, spritz, skin cream. You can find washes, wipes, topical flea treatments, and other dog skin products.

Mostly, it’s because tea tree oil works, and works well. It may be in the products in very small, diluted amounts so manufacturers believe it’s safe. It’s thought a concentration of tea tree oil of 0.1-1% or even 2% is safe. But do you really want to risk it?

You might decide it’s okay to try it on your dog’s skin. But remember … in the ASPCA review, tea tree oil was toxic even with topical application on the skin. And your dog could easily lick it … he might want to get rid of the strong smell. So even using tea tree oil for paws or skin conditions can be just as risky as taking it orally.

Cleaning Products With Tea Tree Oil

Can you clean with tea tree oil if you have a dog? Some people use tea tree oil cleaning products at home. The answer is, that’s not safe for your dog or cat either. Remember your animals live mainly on the floor, where they can breathe the oil and absorb it through their pads. One reader told us her dog went into liver failure after she diffused tea tree oil while she was at work. Air fresheners can be just as risky for any period of time.

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