Horses, cattle, goats and essential oils

It’s not only safe to use oils around the farm, it’s often preferred by the animals. Commonly oils are applied topically and can be used to reduce stress, repel insects, sooth sore muscles or support their immune system.

Alpacas

Herbivores all benefit from using essential oils regularly.

Make sure to only use certified tested essential oils and you know the health status of the animal. Caution is needed with hot oils, they should be diluted with a carrier oil. If you have just bathed them, make sure they are dry before applying oils. Don’t put oils in the saddle area prior to riding. Use caution around pregnant, nursing or young animals. Check with your veterinarian if essential oils can be used with certain medications.

Goats

Can benefit also.

As always, don’t apply on or near eyes, ear canal, nose or genitals. Make sure you observe your animal’s behaviour when using essential oils with them. If an adverse reaction occurs, dilute with a carrier oil. The most common reaction is skin irritation which should resolve within 24-48 hours after their exposure.

Using essential oils to keep insects from bothering cattle.