A dog owner has issued an urgent warning to fellow pet lovers after her beloved companion was poisoned by a common household item found in many UK homes: an essential oil diffuser.
A Terrifying Experience
Marianne Whyte, from New Zealand, shared her frightening ordeal on social media. She returned home late on a Saturday night in January 2026 to find her dog did not recognise her. Initially dismissing it as a night terror, she grew increasingly concerned when her pet was still acting strangely the following day.
It was only when she realised she had been running a new diffuser that she made the connection. After switching the device off on Sunday afternoon, her dog began to feel better. However, the relief was short-lived.
Emergency Vet Visit Reveals Shocking Cause
The following day, Marianne's dog sitter reported the animal had refused to come out from under the bed. When Marianne returned from work, her dog again failed to recognise her, prompting an immediate trip to the emergency vet.
The diagnosis was clear: the tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) used in the diffuser was toxic to her dog. While tests showed the dog's liver was unharmed, he was not out of danger. The vet administered fluids under the skin to help flush out the toxins.
Marianne was told by both the vet and poison control that such cases are becoming increasingly common as the popularity of essential oils grows.
The Extensive List of Dangerous Oils
In her warning, Marianne detailed a long catalogue of essential oils that dog owners must avoid. The toxic list includes many popular varieties:
- Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
- Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)
- Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum)
- Garlic (Allium sativum)
- Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
- Thyme (Red or White)
- Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
- Peppermint variants like Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Vet Zoe Costigan from pet wellbeing specialists Itchpet.com echoed the warning, stating that essential oils found in diffusers, shampoos, air fresheners, and insect repellents can be accidentally ingested, absorbed, or inhaled by pets.
Recognising the Signs of Poisoning
Symptoms of essential oil toxicity in dogs can vary based on the oil type, concentration, and exposure method. Common initial signs include:
- Irritation to the face, paws, or area of application
- Hair loss or inflamed skin
- Hypersalivation, retching, or coughing
In more severe cases, animals may experience behavioural changes, depression, tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing, and ataxia (loss of coordination).
The warning has resonated with many, with social media followers expressing shock and gratitude. One commenter highlighted that some oils are also toxic to humans and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist, criticising the sale of cheap diffusers without adequate safety warnings.
Marianne's primary message to all pet owners is clear: "Please make sure that the essential oils you are burning are not toxic for your pets."
