Are Essential Oils Safe For Cockatiels? (Truth Revealed)

I foster and rehabilitate a lot of animals and birds. But, cleanliness matters the most to me. I always wanted to give a great, liveable space that has a good aroma as well. But, the choice of fragrance has put me at stake especially when I thought of using essential oils around my birds.

Are essential oils safe for cockatiels? Essential oils are generally considered unsafe for birds, including cockatiels, as they have delicate respiratory systems. Inhalation of essential oils can cause irritation, inflammation, and even pneumonia in birds. 

But, there is more to essential oils. If you wish to know the exact reason behind the use of essential oil, this article is for you.

What essential oils are toxic to cockatiels?

Lemon, eucalyptus, cinnamon, clove, orange, pine, rosemary, tea tree, thyme, and ylang-ylang essential oils are highly toxic to cockatiels and other birds as well.

I have never tried essential oils around my birds but have heard of their fragile respiratory systems that we should never put at stake.

In general, it is best to avoid using essential oils around cockatiels, parrots, budgies, and other birds. However, there are several oils that are already termed toxic to cockatiels. 

Cinnamon oil

This is dangerous to cockatiels because it can cause irritation in their respiratory tract. 

Clove oil

This is another oil that can be irritating to a cockatiel’s respiratory system. 

Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus oil is toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called p-cresol. This compound can damage a cockatiel’s liver. 

Lemon oil

Lemon oil can be toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called limonene. This compound can cause irritation in a cockatiel’s respiratory tract. 

Orange oil

Orange oil is dangerous to cockatiels because it contains a compound called d-limonene. This compound can cause irritation in a cockatiel’s respiratory tract. 

Pine oil

Pine oil is toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called alpha-pinene. This compound can cause liver damage in cockatiels. 

Rosemary oil

Rosemary oil is toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called camphor. This compound can be toxic if ingested by a cockatiel. 

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called terpinen-4-ol. This compound can be toxic if ingested by a cockatiel. 

Thyme oil

Thyme oil is toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called thymol. This compound can be toxic if ingested by a cockatiel. 

Ylang-ylang oil

Ylang-ylang oil is toxic to cockatiels because it contains a compound called benzaldehyde. This compound can be toxic if ingested by a cockatiel. 

Never use any essential oils without first consulting a professional.

Additionally, some essential oils can be toxic if ingested. If you must use essential oils around your cockatiel, do so only when the bird is not present, and make sure the area is well ventilated. It’s also important to avoid using oil diffusers, as the mist can be harmful to your bird’s respiratory system.

Here’s another article on the safety of air fresheners – Does air freshener kill budgies?

Is it safe to diffuse essential oils around birds?

It is TOTALLY UNSAFE to diffuse essential oils when birds are around as these oils can damage the respiratory system and birds can suffer from serious health problems. Moreover, the diffuser can also emit harmful chemicals which can be fatal for your birds.

So, it is best to keep them away from diffusers and any other source of essential oils.

If you are wondering about the senses of a bird, here is an exclusive article – Do parakeets have taste buds?

FAQ

Is peppermint essential oil safe for birds?

Peppermint essential oil is unsafe for birds as it can be toxic if ingested. Inhalation of the oil can also cause respiratory problems.

If you must use peppermint oil around birds, make sure that there is good ventilation and that the bird is not able to get close to the oil. You should also remember to dilute it heavily with water so it does not harm your bird even a bit.

Otherwise, they can show weird behaviors of eyes. Here’s an article about one such weird behavior – Why does my budgie close one eye?

Is lemongrass essential oil safe for birds?

Lemongrass contains Citral, which is toxic to birds in large quantities. However, lemongrass oil is only dangerous to birds if they ingest a large amount of it or if the oil is applied directly to their feathers.

If you are using lemongrass essential oil around birds, make sure to keep it out of their reach and avoid applying it directly to their feathers.

Sometimes, they may even lose feathers. Here’s an article that explains this symptom in detail – Why is parakeet losing feathers?

Is rosemary essential oil safe for birds?

Rosemary contains a chemical called camphor which can be toxic to birds if inhaled in large quantities. However, rosemary essential oil is generally considered safe for birds when used in small amounts and well diluted.

If you are concerned about your bird’s safety, consult a veterinarian or avian specialist before using any essential oils around your bird.

Is orange essential oil safe for birds?

The orange essential oil contains limonene, which is toxic to birds. Inhalation of limonene can cause respiratory irritation, lung damage, and liver damage in birds.

Additionally, the orange essential oil may make it difficult for birds to absorb vitamin A from their food. Therefore, it is best to avoid using orange essential oil around birds.

Is cedarwood oil safe for birds?

Cedarwood oil contains compounds that can be toxic to birds if ingested in large quantities. It also produces a strong scent that can choke the respiratory system of your bird quickly.

For these reasons, it is not recommended to use cedarwood oil around birds. If you must use it, make sure that the area is well-ventilated and that your bird is not exposed to the fumes for extended periods of time. It’s also important to keep the oil away from your bird’s food and water.

This applies to every bird you have. Here’s a list of companion birds for cockatiels – What birds can be kept with cockatiels?

Is vanilla essential oil safe for birds?

Vanilla essential oil produces a strong smell and contains a volatile chemical called vanillin. It’s not safe to use around birds, as it can directly get in their eyes, nose, or mouth.

If you’re diffusing the oil, make sure your bird has a way to leave the room if they feel uncomfortable.

Do not apply vanilla essential oil to your bird’s skin, feathers, or beak. If you suspect your bird has been exposed to vanilla oil, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Birds are very sensitive to strong smells and chemicals, so it’s best to err on the side of caution when using any type of essential oil around them.

Is eucalyptus essential oil safe for birds?

Eucalyptus essential oil contains eucalyptol, which is toxic to birds. Ingesting eucalyptus oil can cause liver damage and death in birds.

Some bird species are more sensitive to eucalyptus oil than others, so it is important to research the safety of using this oil around your specific type of bird. If you choose to use eucalyptus oil in your home, be sure to keep it out of reach of your birds at all times.

Is lavender essential oil safe for birds?

The lavender essential oil contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which are found in many plants and flowers and are generally considered safe for birds.

However, some essential oils can be toxic to birds if they are inhaled or ingested, so it is always best to consult with a veterinarian before using any type of essential oil around birds.

What scents are toxic to cockatiels?

Scents like paints, nail polish, deodorants, scented items, room fresheners, and other strong chemicals can be toxic to cockatiels if they’re exposed to them for too long.

If you’re using any of these products in your home, make sure your cockatiel is in a different room.

Final Thoughts

When you have birds at home, it is always good to maintain a natural scent. Using essential oils and other new fragrances can only damage their respiratory systems and also leave us guilty forever.

Why risk when there are natural scents to give them a beautiful environment?