There are many ways to enjoy the benefits of essential oils on a daily basis, even while living with animals or children. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
In passive diffusion
This is a mode of diffusion that is used quite regularly. It simply involves pouring a few drops of oils on a medium (cotton ball, lava stone, wooden block, reeds...) and letting the oil evaporate on its own.
This is a safe way to use oils in the presence of animals only if they do not have direct access to the item used for diffusion, as the oils used are usually pure.
In active diffusion (diffuser)
The most classic method! A diffuser, usually ultrasonic, is used to create a scented mist. Water is put in the container, essential oil is added, and it is activated.
In the presence of animals, the diffuser must be kept out of their reach. The device must also be well maintained, cleaned regularly, and undiluted oils should be used to maximize its effectiveness. It is generally recommended to use distilled water to avoid minerals and chlorine from municipal water affecting the quality of scents and the lifespan of the diffuser.
Generally, it is recommended to use a maximum of 1 to 5 drops of pure oil per 150ml of water in the presence of children or animals.
In spray
Easy and practical, spray diffusion only requires a colored glass spray bottle and water (preferably distilled). It is a quick compromise to deodorize a room, refresh fabrics, or promote a relaxing atmosphere.
It is generally recommended to use a maximum of 10 to 20 drops per 500ml of water in the presence of children or animals, depending on the oil used.
In the litter box
It is possible to use essential oils in the litter box, provided that certain criteria are respected. It is important to remember that animals have a more delicate and sensitive sense of smell than humans.
It is essential that the animal has access to a litter box without oil at all times during the trial. If the animal does not use the litter box with oil, it means they do not like the smell, so the use should be stopped.
When it is observed that the animal continues to use the scented litter box, or prefers it, oils can be placed in all boxes, if desired.
It is generally considered that only 1 to 3 drops are sufficient in a box measuring 30cm by 60cm and having 10cm of litter. Alternatively, there are litter powders available, which allow for the use of fewer oils at a time.
Ingestion and topical application
Whether through direct oral administration, administration on food or in water, ingestion during licking or grooming, or application on the skin, the use of pure essential oils is NOT recommended. Each oil has its own warnings for animals, recommended dilution ratios, and specificities by species, so it is best to avoid administering essential oils in this way without the advice of an essential oil specialist or a veterinarian.
The products made by VetSens are composed according to veterinary recommendations, following strict safety rules and safe dilutions. This not only requires knowledge of oils, but also of animals, and thus many months (and even years) of research and practice. Yes, these products can (often) be used on the skin or ingested, but they have been specifically formulated for this use and studied to be safe at the indicated doses and frequencies.